Are the Cleveland Browns going to bounce back against the Cincinnati Bengals for the second time after a lopsided loss to a divisional rival?
The Cleveland Browns were blown out in Week 1 when they faced the Baltimore Ravens and rebounded nicely in Week 2 against the Cincinnati Bengals. Cleveland finds themselves in a very familiar situation in Week 7. The Browns were beaten badly by a divisional opponent (Pittsburgh) and again face the Bengals. Can they channel what they did in Week 2 and get back into the win column?
Looking back to Cleveland’s 35-30 win over Cincinnati, the Browns ran more than they passed. This will need to be their strategy after a lackluster passing performance from Baker Mayfield in Week 6. While Nick Chubb will not be available, Kareem Hunt should be able to handle the bulk of the workload. Mix in some D’Ernest Johnson and Dontrell Hilliard in addition to an Odell Beckham Jr. run.
Speaking of Odell, he had his second best outing of the season the last time Cleveland faced Cincinnati. The Browns receiver finished with 4 receptions for 74 yards and a touchdown The touchdown coming on a 43-yard pass from Mayfield in the 2nd quarter. It is possible that Beckham has another good day facing the Bengals this Sunday.
What it is going to come down to is realizing what does and doesn’t work. Kevin Stefanski is definitely smart enough to realize the strengths and weaknesses of this team. The offense will to need to focus on running the ball and pick their spots in the passing game. If the result of the game is dependent on a productive passing attack they are in trouble. If the Browns are able to run the ball effectively they should be able to come away with a win.
