For the second and likely final time this season, these divisional rivals will clash. The Baltimore Ravens won the first matchup 23-20, but that was with MVP quarterback Lamar Jackson starting.
Their opponent, the Cleveland Browns, will surely be looking to avenge that loss while also keeping their slim playoff hopes alive. This has the potential to be a season-defining game for both sides.
Baltimore Ravens vs. Cleveland Browns Match Details
Fixture: Baltimore Ravens @ Cleveland Browns
Date & Time: Saturday, December 17, 4:30 p.m. EDT
Venue: FirstEnergy Stadium, Cleveland, Ohio
Baltimore Ravens vs. Cleveland Browns Betting Odds
Odds are courtesy of Caesars Sportsbook
Get up to $1,250 back when you make your first bet at Caesars Sportsbook
Baltimore Ravens vs. Cleveland Browns Key Stats
26th. That's where the Browns' defense ranks in rushing average, allowing 4.8 yards per carry. It's a major part of the reason that Cleveland allows the 27th most points per game. They're tasked with slowing down a Ravens rushing attack that averages 5.2 yards per rush, the second-best mark in the league. The Ravens gained 160 yards on the ground in their victory over the Browns earlier in the season.
Meanwhile, since the calendar flipped to November, the Baltimore defense has been allowing only 13.4 points per game. That unit excels against the run. They've allowed the second-fewest rushing yards and surrendered the third-fewest yards per rush at 3.8. It's an important matchup against the Browns, who have the fifth-most rushing attempts and rushing yards in the NFL this season. Cleveland's offense has been successful most of the season because they can run the ball so effectively.
The turnover disparity between these teams is massive too. Baltimore is second in the NFL with a +9 turnover differential. They have only lost five fumbles this season, tied for the sixth-fewest. Holding onto the ball, especially the running backs, should be an important factor in a game where they will probably lean on them more than usual due to the quarterback situation. Meanwhile, the Browns are tied for 29th in turnover differential at -5. They only have thirteen takeaways for the season, yet again one of the worst numbers in the league.
Baltimore Ravens vs. Cleveland Browns Betting Prediction
While the injuries to the Ravens' top two quarterbacks will be the conversation of this game, I think the Cleveland QB situation is just as concerning. Since replacing Jacoby Brissett as the starter, the Browns have managed only one offensive touchdown in their two games. The Ravens' defense has been stingy lately.
This game should be a grind that ultimately boils down to who can run the ball effectively, not turn the ball over, and finish their drives with touchdowns instead of field goals. The Ravens seem better equipped to win the first two of those battles.
Prediction: Ravens Money Line (+130)
Get up to $1,250 back when you make your first bet at Caesars Sportsbook
Cleveland Browns Nation! Check out the latest Cleveland Browns Schedule and dive into the Browns Depth Chart for NFL Season 2024-25.