Washington (1-1) at Browns (1-1)
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, FirstEnergy Stadium, Cleveland
TV: Fox
Danny Sheridan’s line:
Browns by 6
Washington’s keys to victory: It is built around a great defensive line, and it will need to play like one to stop the Browns balanced offensive attack. Rookie DE Chase Young and veteran edge rusher Ryan Kerrigan key a fearsome pass rush that needs to keep Browns QB Baker Mayfield uncomfortable. Young CB Jimmy Moreland and his secondary mates will need to be sharp and make plays on the ball. On offense, establishing the run with the RB duo of Peyton Barber and rookie Antonio Gibson can slow down the Browns’ own strong pass rush.
Browns’ keys to victory: The RB combination of Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt has been dynamic. Mayfield has had great pass protection from an overhauled offensive line featuring rookie LT Jedrick Wills, and that will need to continue against a great Washington defensive front. DE Myles Garrett, DT Sheldon Richardson and the Browns defensive line must control the line of scrimmage and not let the Washington run game get on track. Cleveland’s middle-of-field defense behind the line has been a weakness. Protecting the LBs and safeties from having to do too much is paramount.
Matchup to watch: Browns LT Wills vs. Washington’s Young. The two top-10 draft picks in ’20 will often square off against each other. Both have impressed in their early action. The winner of the matchup will help determine how well the Browns offense performs.
Who wins? The Browns should be rested after playing Thursday. The bonus time off should allow Cleveland to survive.
Browns, 23-17