1. The running game will continue to produce
This is simple really. The duo of Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt is one of , if not the best in the NFL. Combine that with the Browns offensive line and it is the envy of the league. Cleveland will need to use both early and often to have a chance in this game.
2. Baker Mayfield will regress from last week
Listen, the Bengals defense is atrocious which helped lead to the improved performance of Baker Mayfield. Mayfield will bounce back down to earth this week facing a superior Washington defense. Chase Young, Montez Sweat, and Jonathan Allen will make like difficult for Mayfield. It will be up to the Browns coaching staff to put Mayfield in a position to succeed, A.K.A. throwing less.
3. Cody Parkey misses a kick
Total shot in the dark here but what has Cody Parkey shown in the past that he is a reliable NFL kicker? Nothing. Parkey missing a field goal extra point this week almost seems destined to happen, even after going 5-5 in his Browns return.
4. The defense continues to play poorly
Even at full strength this defense would be nothing to write home about. The Browns are not healthy on defense and those who are playing high snap counts shouldn’t. Cleveland’s defense could very easily get shredded for a third straight week.
