Browns (6-5) at Ravens (7-3)
Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET, M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore TV: NBC
Tipico Sportsbook line: Ravens by 3 ⁄2
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Browns’ keys to victory: Cleveland will have to get off to a fast start, or at least hold its own against the Baltimore offense. In the event that it can’t get anything going on offense, the Browns could look to take advantage of the short passing game as well as their run game to their advantage. On defense, Cleveland will have to blitz effectively and make Baltimore QB Lamar Jackson uncomfortable in the pocket, as well as shut down the Ravens’ running game.
Ravens’ keys to victory: Baltimore will need to use a balanced attack on offense in order to beat a Cleveland defense that has plenty of stars on it but hasn’t lived up to expectations. If rookie WR Rashod Bateman can continue his hot start to his career, it will give the Browns’ defense one more highlevel playmaker to worry about. On defense, the Ravens have to tackle well, limit big plays and make sure everyone communicates.
Matchup to watch: Browns DE Myles Garrett vs. Ravens OT Alejandro Villenueva. Garrett could have his way with Villanueva based on how the two have been playing this season. Garrett is at the top of his game, while Villanueva has been somewhat inconsistent. It seems the star defensive end will line up on the left side, but regardless of where he does, if Baltimore’s offensive line can’t contain him, it could be a long day for the Ravens’ offense.
Who wins? This will mark Baltmore’s second divisional game of the year after a blowout loss to the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 7. Meanwhile, Cleveland is 1-1 in the AFC North.
Ravens, 26-24