NFL Picks: Commanders Take On The Surging Browns

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As the sun sets on Cleveland Browns Stadium this Friday night, the Washington Commanders, with a fresh start in mind, are all set to clash with the Cleveland Browns, who are already boasting a victory under their belts this preseason. Their Kickoff on this NFL season is slated for 7:30 PM. ET.

A quick dive into the history between these teams shows a balanced affair, with the sides splitting victories over their previous 10 matchups.

BUSR NFL LINES

Spread: Commanders +3 (-110), Browns -3 (-110)
Moneyline: Commanders +132, Browns -162
Total: Commanders O 38.5 (-110), Browns U 38.5 (-110)

Cleveland’s Pursuit of Continued Success

In an exciting match, the Browns managed to edge past the revamped New York Jets in the Hall of Fame game. With this morale-boosting win early in the preseason, they are keen on keeping this momentum as they face the Commanders. Another victory here would underscore their promising start.

Last season, the Browns’ offensive output averaged 21.2 points per game, positioning them 21st in the NFL. However, their performance against the Jets showed a more potent offensive display, with 21 points on the board, amassing 167 yards through the air and a decent 172 yards on the ground.

Quarterback Kellen Mond showcased precision, completing 68% of his throws for 92 yards, including a touchdown but was also intercepted once. Meanwhile, rookie sensation Dorian Thompson-Robinson exhibited potential by completing 73% of his passes for 82 yards and a touchdown. His agility was on full display, rushing six times for 36 yards.

On the rushing front, Demetric Felton Jr. made his mark with 46 yards and a touchdown from seven carries. In the receiving corps, Austin Watkins Jr. was a standout, reeling in two catches for 35 yards and a touchdown.

Defensively, the Browns demonstrated resilience, restricting their opponents to just 16 points. They will be aiming to replicate this feat against the Commanders.

Commanders: A Quest for Redemption

After securing the NFC East title two seasons ago, the Commanders experienced a dip in form, finishing last season with an 8-8-1 record. Their hopes are pinned on making a triumphant return to the playoffs this year. Crucially, they’ll be vying to overturn a concerning three-game losing streak in preseason play this Friday.

In terms of offensive production, the Commanders averaged 18.9 points per game during the last campaign. They accumulated an average of 204.2 passing yards per game, ranked 21st league-wide, and managed 126.1 rushing yards. Acknowledging these offensive struggles, the Commanders sought the expertise of Eric Bieniemy, the former offensive coordinator of the Kansas City Chiefs, to reinvigorate their attack.

Transitioning into a new era, the Commanders decided to part ways with their leading passer, Taylor Heinicke, and backup Carson Wentz. The responsibility now rests on the young shoulders of Sam Howell, who enters his second year and has been announced as the starting quarterback. To bolster their quarterback room, they’ve recruited seasoned pro-Jacoby Brissett.

On the defensive front, the Commanders have been formidable. Last season, they conceded an average of 20.2 points per game, which placed them in the league’s top 10. Their defense against both the aerial and ground game was commendable. With fresh additions like Emmanuel Forbes and Jartavius Martin from the early rounds of the draft, coupled with a rejuvenated Chase Young, they aim to fortify their position as one of the NFL’s defensive powerhouses.

In conclusion, as the weekend nears, football enthusiasts are in for a treat. The game promises to be a tactical battle, with both teams eager to stake their claim early in the preseason NFL Odds.