NFL Preview: Baltimore Ravens vs. Cleveland Browns
The Cleveland Browns (3-13) have a tough task on their hands when they face the Baltimore Ravens (11-5) on Saturday, January 4 at 4:30 PM ET at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland. The latest NFL betting odds reveal the Ravens heavily favored with a point spread at -18.0 (-105) at MyBookie.
Cleveland Browns Betting Preview
The Browns have lost their last five games and have terrible momentum heading into the final game of the regular season. Their latest defeat was a 20-3 blowout against the Miami Dolphins.
Jameis Winston did not play and is questionable for the matchup with the Ravens. Dorian Thompson-Robinson suited up against the Dolphins, completing 24 of 47 passes for 170 yards and had an interception. This was a 6-3 game at halftime, but poor performances on both sides of the ball in the second half led to their demise.
They looked similar on paper with total yards and first downs, with the Browns putting up 276 yards and 18 first downs. The Dolphins did a great job at not turning the ball over, while the Browns had two.
The Browns are the worst team in the league when it comes to offensive production, ranking 32nd in getting 15.5 points a game. On defense they rank 24th in allowing opposing teams to average 25.0 points a game. This spread is not favorable for a win anytime soon.
Baltimore Ravens Betting Preview
The Ravens are currently on a three-game win streak and need another win to clinch the division. Their most recent victory was a 31-2 blowout over the Houston Texans, which also marked their third straight win scoring at least 31 points.
They posted 24 points in the first and third quarters combined to give them a large lead. Their strong offense and smothering defense shows they are ready for the playoffs. Lamar Jackson stood out with 10 of 15 completions totaling 168 yards, two touchdowns, and four carries that added to one touchdown.
Their offense put up 432 yards and 25 first downs. On the defensive end they held the Texans to 211 yards, 10 first downs, and forced a turnover.
The Ravens are third in the league for averaging 30.2 points a game. Defensively they rank 13th in giving up just 21.9 points to opponents. This spread is comfortable, assuming the offense stays healthy.
Odds, Series Trends, and Free Pick
MyBookie gives you appealing Cleveland Browns vs. Baltimore Ravens betting odds, which currently favor the Ravens by 18 points. According to market analysis, the Ravens have an 89.8 percent chance of winning this matchup.
The Ravens need this win to stay ahead of the Steelers in the AFC North. However, if they get a big lead for a majority of the game, they will likely sit out starters (Jackson) to avoid an unnecessary injury and preserve for the playoffs. Look for the Browns to cover the spread.
Final Pick: Cleveland Browns +18.0 (-115)
