Cincinnati Bengals at Cleveland Browns Betting Pick
In Week 1 of the National Football League, all eyes will be on the Cincinnati Bengals and the Cleveland Browns, both determined to secure a spot in the 2023 postseason from the competitive AFC North division.
The Bengals, who had a disappointing preseason with zero wins in three attempts, are seeking redemption after clinching the divisional title last season but falling short in the AFC championship game against the eventual Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs.
Meanwhile, the Browns, who finished with a 7-10 record the previous season, are eager to turn things around. Their preseason performance was mixed, with a 1-2-1 record.
As anticipation builds for this showdown, oddsmakers have pegged the Cincinnati Bengals as favorites with a -2.5 point spread, indicating high expectations for their performance.
Sunday’s game promises to be a pivotal moment for both teams as they embark on their journey to secure a coveted spot in the 2023 NFL postseason.
Bengals Looking for 2021 Repeat
Joe Burrow’s early preseason departure left the Cincinnati Bengals without their star quarterback for a month, hindering his ability to gain valuable reps during training camp.
This setback also ripple effect on his primary target, Ja’Marr Chase, who had an impressive season with over 1,000 receiving yards the year before. Alongside Chase, the Bengals boast a formidable trio of receivers, including Tee Higgins and Tyler Boyd, making them one of the league’s most potent receiving corps.
The Bengals are counting on Joe Mixon, their leading rusher from the previous season with 814 yards, to anchor their ground game. With Samaje Perine now in Denver, Trayveon Williams, who had limited carries in 2023, is next in line, alongside rookie Chase Brown from Illinois.
To bolster their depth, Cincinnati is placing hope in their top draft picks, Myles Murphy, DJ Turner, and Jordan Battle.
The Bengals kick off their season with a challenging divisional road game. Things heat up in Week 2 when they host Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens, followed by a Monday Night Football clash with the Rams in Week 3. In Week 4, Cincinnati faces a road test against the Tennessee Titans.
Browns Seeking Week One Upset
Under the guidance of head coach Kevin Stefanski, the Cleveland Browns are poised and eager to face their divisional rival on opening day. The Browns welcome back the formidable Nick Chubb, who rivaled Josh Jacobs for the top running back position last season.
Chubb’s remarkable season saw him amass over 1,500 rushing yards and reach the end zone 12 times. Notably, Kareem Hunt’s departure means Chubb will have to share fewer carries this time.
In the previous season, the Browns split quarterback duties between Jacoby Brissett and DeShaun Watson, resulting in 19 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. With Watson now set to start from the get-go, Cleveland anticipates improved performance in these key metrics. Adding to their offensive firepower, Amari Cooper returns after catching nine touchdown passes last season.
The Browns launch their campaign with a home game against the Bengals, followed by a high-stakes Monday Night Football showdown in Pittsburgh for Week 2. Subsequently, they enjoy a three-game homestand against the Titans, Ravens, and 49ers, with a well-timed bye week in Week 5.
Bengals Sneak By at Home
Do not be surprised if this game comes to missed or made field goals. The Bengals get one late and win this game by a field goal. Sure, the spread is small, but we will take the better team here. Great game in Cleveland on Sunday! Bet Cincinnati Bengals -2.5 over Cleveland Browns.
