Browns (5-4) at Patriots (5-4)
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, Massachusetts
TV: CBS
Tipico Sportsbook line: Patriots by 1 ⁄2
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Browns’ keys to victory: If there’s one thing New England doesn’t do well, it’s defending the run. With RBs Nick Chubb and D’Ernest Johnson, Cleveland should be able to pound the football, even after the injury to LT Jack Conklin. It’s a similar story for the Browns defense. DEs Jadeveon Clowney and Myles Garrett are the heart – they should cause major problems with New England seeing inconsistency from its tackles throughout the season.
Patriots’ keys to victory: Because Cleveland can do such a good job controlling time of possession with its power rushing attack, the Patriots need to desperately avoid turnovers. QB Mac Jones has thrown only one interception the past three weeks. The rookie needs to continue that trend. New England’s defense, meanwhile, will need a big game from the front seven, with DTs Christian Barmore and Davon Goxchaux looking more dominant every week. They will need to make an impact, both in defending the run and in disrupting the pocket for Browns QB Baker Mayfield.
Matchup to watch: Browns’ Chubb vs. Patriots LB Ja’Whaun Bentley. The Cleveland offense will likely live or die with Chubb. If a linebacker like Bentley can play a role in shutting down the running back, New England can keep Cleveland in check.
Who wins? The Patriots appear to be getting hot, with three straight wins. With an impressive defense and a fast-developing rookie quarterback, New England should take care of the Browns.
Patriots 31, Browns 24