Bengals Favored Over Browns In ‘Thursday Night Football’ AFC North Clash
The Cincinnati Bengals host the Cleveland Browns on “Thursday Night Football” starting at 8:25 p.m. ET. First place in the AFC North is on the line.
The Bengals opened as a six-point favorite, and the line has climbed up modestly to 6.5 points or a touchdown at sportsbooks monitored by OddsShark.com. You can get the Bengals at -260 on the moneyline, while the Browns are at +220. The total is set at 44.5 points.
Both teams are struggling against the spread lately. The Bengals are 1-3-1 ATS over their last five games, while the Browns are 2-3-1 ATS over their last six games. However, while Cincinnati is 2-2-1 SU over its last five games, Cleveland is 4-1 SU. Dating back to last season, the Bengals are 11-2-1 ATS at home, while the Browns are 4-6-1 ATS on the road. The Browns are 6-3-1 ATS in the last 10 matchups but only 3-7 SU in that same span.
The total has gone OVER in seven of the last 10 games between these teams. The total has gone OVER in four of Cincinnati?s last five games but UNDER in four of Cleveland?s last five games. The OddsShark Computer predicts a 23-21 Bengals victory. That would provide for the Browns cover and the UNDER.
The Bengals are likely to be without running back Giovani Bernard for the second straight week. Bernard is doubtful with a hip injury, and Jeremy Hill is expected to get a second start in his place. Hill rushed for 154 yards and two touchdowns in Week 9.
A.J. Green will be back for his second straight start after missing a month with turf toe. Green played in 40 of 69 offensive snaps in Week 9, and he finished the game with three receptions for 44 yards and a touchdown.
The Browns will be without tight end Jordan Cameron for the second straight week as he works through the concussion protocol. The other significant injury is wide receiver Andrew Hawkins, who is questionable with thigh and knee injuries. He has been the Browns’ leading receiver while they await the return of Josh Gordon, who is expected to re-join the team in Week 12.
Photo via Aaron Doster/USA TODAY Sports Images
