NFL Week 18: Cleveland Browns vs Cincinnati Bengals Odds, and Picks (Jan 7)

• The Browns beat the Jets 20-37 in week 17.
• The Bengals lost 17-25 to the Chiefs last time out.
• These two teams met in week 1, with the Browns winning 3-24.

The 11-5 Cleveland Browns take on the 8-8 Cincinnati Bengals in this week 18, AFC North divisional matchup. The Browns will be resting players with their #5 playoff seeding secured, whilst the Bengals season comes to a close here.

How To Watch

• CBS

Game Preview

The Browns have decided to rest their top players in preparation for the playoffs. As a result, Joe Flacco, Jerome Ford, Kareem Hunt, Amari Cooper and David Njoku will either be on limited snaps or sit out the game. Jeff Driskel will take over as the quarterback, making his first appearance for Cleveland since being signed off the Cardinals’ practice squad. Pierre Strong is expected to be the main running back, while Cedric Tillman, a rookie wide receiver, may have a significant role in the passing game.

The Cincinnati Bengals take on the Cleveland Browns on Sunday, without any post-season football prospects. They are expected to play their regular line-up in this divisional match. Jake Browning will continue at quarterback for this game with Joe Burrow is still on the injured reserve list. Rookie running back Chase Brown may get a greater chance to shine and showcase his skills behind Joe Mixon. The Bengals are planning to evaluate his potential for the 2024 season.

Prediction

The Bengals are heavy favorites in this home game, and with the Browns resting so many players it is easy to see why. I expect Cincinnati to win this one with relative ease.

NFL Picks