The Cleveland Browns will host the New York Jets on Thursday night at FirstEnergy Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. Both the New York Jets and Cleveland Browns are trying to end long playoff droughts this season. The Jets have not reached the playoffs since the 2010 season, and the Browns haven’t reached the NFL playoffs since 2002.
The Cleveland Browns are still looking for their first win in two seasons after getting off to an 0-1-1 start in 2018. Cleveland had a chance to win each of their first two games but ended up with a tie against the Pittsburgh Steelers before losing to the New Orleans Saints. The Jets blew out Detroit in week one, before suffering a disappointing loss to the Miami Dolphins. The Browns are a three-point favorite in this game.
Jets Receivers Stepping Up
The New York Jets decided to start rookie quarterback Sam Darnold this season, and it appears that the move is paying off. Darnold has had his ups and downs but looks to have a bright future in the NFL. He has completed over 66% of his passes this season while throwing for three touchdowns. His three interceptions are a bit of a concern, but Darnold has the ability to lead an offense.
Quincy Enunwa and Terrelle Pryor have quickly become Darnold’s favorite wide receiver targets this season. Enunwa has been targeted 21 times and has hauled in thirteen of those passes for 155 yards this season. Pryor has caught just seven passes this season but is averaging 19.0 yards per reception. These two receivers have stepped up big time to help Darnold have a smooth transition to the NFL.
Ward, Garrett Leading Browns Defense
The Cleveland Browns feature a terrific defense led by Denzel Ward and Myles Garrett. Both players were first round draft picks by the Browns, and both look to be future NFL stars. Denzel Ward leads the team with two interceptions as a rookie and is a terrific defensive back. Defensive end Myles Garrett has recorded two sacks while forcing two fumbles so far this season. The Browns will put a ton of pressure on the Jets in this game.
Quarterback Tyrod Taylor has done a nice job with his legs this season for the Browns but needs to be more accurate in the passing game. Taylor has ran for over 100 yards this season and has found the end zone once. The former Bills quarterback has completed just 52% of his passes for 443 yards through the air this season. The Browns need Taylor to be more accurate in this game if they are going to earn their first win.
Browns Win on Thursday Night
This should be a highly competitive game between two teams with an eye toward the future. The Jets have already earned a victory this season, while the Browns are still looking to crack the win column. Darnold has been impressive so far this season for the Jets, but the Browns defense will give him problems on Thursday night. The Cleveland Browns are finally favored to win a game, and they will get the job done in this game. Bet the Cleveland Browns -3.0 over the New York Jets.
