Browns vs. Bears: Preview, score prediction for Week 16
Cleveland Browns vs. Chicago Bears
The matchup between the Cleveland Browns and Chicago Bears is far from exciting. There’s no denying that, but one thing is abundantly clear. It will be a showdown between the rookie quarterbacks and a big game full of “What ifs?”
What if the Bears hadn’t traded up and the Browns landed Trubisky? What if the Browns used their first overall pick on Marshon Lattimore instead of Myles Garrett? Regardless of the Browns, this game is a torch of hope to see if they’ll actually win a game this season.
As for the Bears, it’s a chance for Trubisky to show he was worth such a high price. So far, the jury is out on that decision but playing against the Browns should be a good test. Either way, this game is far from one of the most exciting matchups on Christmas Eve.
Keys to Victory
Looking at the Browns, there’s a lot of room for improvement. Most of it comes down to the quarterback play, though. The running carousel of quarterbacks has been disappointing, to say the least, and someone has to step up. DeShone Kinzer has shown promise but needs to make plays especially with the addition of Josh Gordon.
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As for the defense, they have been pretty consistent as far as the Browns go. Most notably has been the team’s run defense. They have been able to stop some of the best in the league and need to keep up that type of play. If they can hold Jordan Howard, then they might be able to get an interception out of Trubisky.
Speaking of Trubisky, the Bears are in a similar situation. Their defense has been incredibly productive this season. Most notably Eddie Jackson, but getting back Danny Trevathan is going to be a huge boost. If they can keep up even a little bit of the momentum they built up earlier this season, then getting to the Browns shouldn’t be a problem.
The Bears offense is tricky because Jordan Howard has been really good. Sadly, he’s been bogged down by Trubisky’s play. Some of that comes from Trubisky being such a young and inexperienced player, but a poor receiving core isn’t helping. If the Bears can’t rely heavily on the run, then Trubisky needs to be able to make those key plays.
Odds
Point Spread: Chicago -6.5
Moneyline: Cleveland +225, Chicago -265
Over/Under: 38
Next: 2018 NFL Mock Draft: Giants start baking
Prediction
The Browns are looking for their first win still so it’s pretty obvious the Bears have the advantage here. Unless the Browns are able to fully stifle the run, keep Trubisky under pressure and kickstart their offense, then it looks like a win for the Bears. Despite a promising game against the Packers, the Browns look to fall to 0-15.
Final Score: Cleveland Browns: 10, Chicago Bears: 31