Cleveland Browns vs Baltimore Ravens Picks and Predictions October 27th 2024

Jameis Winston draws start for Browns vs. red-hot Ravens

As the Baltimore Ravens and Cleveland Browns gear up for their AFC North clash, the two teams find themselves on sharply divergent paths. Baltimore (5-2) is enjoying a five-game winning streak and vying for divisional dominance, while Cleveland (1-6) faces mounting challenges, entering the game with a five-game losing streak and a freshly depleted roster.

Browns’ Quarterback Challenge: Jameis Winston Steps In

The Browns face a quarterback dilemma following the season-ending Achilles injury sustained by starter Deshaun Watson in last week’s 21-14 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. To steady the ship, head coach Kevin Stefanski has named veteran Jameis Winston as the starter over rookie Dorian Thompson-Robinson for Sunday’s game against Baltimore.

“He’s won a lot of football games,” Stefanski noted about Winston. “He’s seen a lot of football. We have complete confidence in him. The guys respect him…because of the work he puts in. He’s in early, and he’s got that energy right away.”

Winston’s experience and deep-ball capability could be the spark the Browns need to breathe life into their struggling offense, which currently ranks last in the NFL with only 253.9 yards per game and near-last in points scored with an average of 15.6 per game.

NFL Picks & Previews

Cleveland’s Offensive Struggles and Personnel Boosts

Despite their challenges, the Browns are not short on offensive talent. Star wide receiver Jerry Jeudy and tight end David Njoku offer Winston solid receiving targets, and running back Nick Chubb’s recent return to the lineup should bolster Cleveland’s rushing game. Chubb, a fan favorite, has been sidelined since Week 2 with a knee injury, but his return gives the Browns a much-needed offensive boost.

In addition, Stefanski has handed over play-calling duties to offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey, which may signal a strategic shift to better utilize the roster’s available strengths against Baltimore’s dynamic offense.

Ravens Eyeing Playoff Glory with Lamar Jackson

The Ravens are surging, with quarterback Lamar Jackson leading the charge in a season that’s putting him firmly in the MVP conversation. Currently fifth in the NFL with 1,810 passing yards and tied for second with 15 touchdown passes, Jackson remains focused on winning rather than personal accolades.

“I’m chasing something right now, so each and every game is going to be the same thing for me,” Jackson said. “I’m going to be the same person. Every game, I’m trying to win.”

Baltimore’s recent acquisition of Derrick Henry has further elevated their ground game, which now leads the league with 461.4 total yards and an impressive 31.1 points per game. Henry, currently the league’s top rusher with 873 yards, praised the offensive line for creating the opportunities he’s capitalizing on.

“The offensive line is doing a hell of a job; I mean a hell of a job,” Henry said. “All the credit goes to them…and I hope it keeps going.”

Browns’ Defense vs. Ravens’ Dynamic Offense

The Browns’ defensive front, anchored by star pass-rusher Myles Garrett, will be critical in limiting Jackson’s explosive potential. Garrett, who has recorded four sacks this season, is nursing an Achilles issue but managed to practice on Wednesday, which bodes well for Cleveland’s defensive outlook.

Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton isn’t underestimating the Browns, acknowledging Cleveland’s potential to disrupt Baltimore’s rhythm despite their record.

“They don’t have the best record right now, but I think on tape…they have talent, and they can cause some issues if you don’t take them seriously,” Hamilton stated. “It’s a division opponent. I have a lot of respect for them.”

Ravens’ Defensive Vulnerabilities Offer Opportunity for Cleveland

Baltimore’s defense has been somewhat vulnerable, particularly in the secondary, where they rank last in the league, allowing 287.1 passing yards per game. They are also tied for 26th in points allowed, giving up 25.7 per game. Injuries to key defenders, including Marlon Humphrey, who has four interceptions, could expose further weaknesses in the Ravens’ backfield.

Winston’s experience and arm strength could test the Ravens’ secondary, especially if he can connect on deep passes with Jeudy and Njoku. Despite Baltimore’s reputation for defensive tenacity, Winston believes the focus should be on Cleveland’s execution.

“We just got to go and do our job,” Winston said. “It’s really not about them and who they are. It is about us and who we are.”

Injuries on Both Sides

Both teams are dealing with significant injuries that may impact Sunday’s outcome. For Cleveland, key players such as safety Ronnie Hickman Jr., linebacker Jordan Hicks, running back Jerome Ford, center Ethan Pocic, and tackle Jedrick Wills missed practice due to various injuries.

Baltimore also has injury concerns, with Humphrey and cornerbacks Nate Wiggins and T.J. Tampa sitting out practices due to knee, shoulder, and ankle issues, respectively. Defensive tackle Travis Jones, wide receiver Zay Flowers, and running back Rasheen Ali are also battling injuries, which could affect the Ravens’ defensive depth.

High Stakes for Both Teams

For the Ravens, the stakes are clear: they have their sights set on a deep playoff run, potentially reaching the Super Bowl for the first time since the 2012-13 season. For the Browns, a victory over the division leaders could mark a turning point in a tough season, giving them renewed momentum and a path toward rebuilding morale.

Both teams are prepared for a competitive face-off, with the Browns aiming to upset the favored Ravens, and Baltimore striving to extend their winning streak and further solidify their playoff credentials.

Sign Up with The Best Sports Handicappers