Cincinnati Bengals vs Cleveland Browns Prediction: Both teams have nothing to lose

The Cleveland Browns are set to face the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio. The Browns come into this matchup with a four-game winning streak, showcasing solid momentum, while the Cincinnati Bengals are currently on a two-game losing streak. Now, let's delve into the comprehensive previews and formulate a prediction for the upcoming game.

The Cincinnati Bengals hold an 8-8 record this season, having suffered a 25-17 defeat to the Kansas City Chiefs last week. Despite initially leading 17-7 in the second quarter, the Bengals allowed 18 unanswered points, resulting in the loss. In terms of statistics, they were outgained by a total of 373-263 and struggled on third down, going 8-16 in the game. Prior to the Kansas City game, the Bengals had experienced a 34-11 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers but managed victories against the Minnesota Vikings, Indianapolis Colts, and Jacksonville Jaguars.

The Cincinnati Bengals' offense is averaging 20.9 points per game, with 234.4 passing yards and 84 rushing yards per game. Quarterback Jake Browning has thrown for 2,309 yards, 15 touchdowns, and six interceptions this season. Running back Joe Mixon has contributed 923 rushing yards and eight scores, while wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase has caught 96 passes for 1,197 yards and seven touchdowns. Defensively, the Bengals are allowing an average of 23.1 points per game.

Heading into this matchup, the Bengals have won eight of their last 10 home games against teams with winning records. However, they have failed to cover the spread in each of their last four home games against AFC North opponents. Additionally, the home team has won the first half in each of the last four games between the Browns and Bengals.

The Cleveland Browns boast an 11-5 record this season, securing a 37-20 victory over the Jets in their recent game. They held a commanding 34-17 lead at halftime and comfortably maintained their advantage in the second half. Despite turning the ball over three times, the Browns outgained the New York Jets with a total of 428-360 yards. In addition to the win against the Jets, the Browns have triumphed over the Houston Texans, Chicago Bears, and Jacksonville Jaguars during their current winning streak, securing a playoff berth in the process.

The Cleveland Browns' offense is averaging 23.9 points per game, with 222.1 passing yards and 119.6 rushing yards per game. Quarterback Joe Flacco has accumulated 1,616 passing yards, 13 touchdowns, and eight interceptions this season. Running back Jerome Ford has rushed for 807 yards and four touchdowns, while wide receiver Amari Cooper (questionable) has recorded 72 receptions for 1,250 yards and five scores. Defensively, the Browns are allowing an average of 20.7 points per game.

As they head into this matchup, the Cleveland Browns have faced challenges on the road, losing 14 of their last 15 away games when playing with a rest advantage. However, the favorites have covered the spread in eight of the Browns' last nine games. Additionally, the Browns have lost the first half in each of their last nine Sunday games as underdogs.

The Cincinnati Bengals, having been eliminated from playoff contention, will be hosting this regular-season finale at home. On the other hand, the Cleveland Browns, already locked into their playoff seed, have little at stake in this game. With their playoff position secured, the Browns are likely to rest many of their starters, providing an advantage to the Cincinnati Bengals. Despite the Bengals performing relatively well since the loss of Burrow, their offense has encountered difficulties in the last two games.

While the specific lineup for the Cleveland Browns remains uncertain, it is expected that they will adopt a conservative approach to minimize the risk of injuries in this inconsequential contest. Given these factors, I would lean towards the Cincinnati Bengals in this game, particularly with the spread favoring them at home.