Ravens at Browns: Odds, trends and more
By James Dudko
The latest Ravens at Browns odds, trends, and other information ahead of their 2016 NFL Week 2 matchup.
The Cleveland Browns have already got off to a rocky start in the 2016 NFL season. Not only did they lose to the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 1, but the Browns also lost Robert Griffin III.
Cleveland’s starting quarterback has been sent to injured reserve with a shoulder problem. It means Josh McCown will now come in for RG3.
Not surprisingly, the change under center is reflected in the latest odds. The 1-0 Baltimore Ravens are six-point favorites, per OddsShark, after beating the Buffalo Bills on the opening weekend.
A tally of 43.5 is given for the over/under by the same source, based on the opening line. The trends suggest betting on the under is the smart play.
Baltimore has seen the total go under in four of its last six games. Meanwhile, the Browns have gone under in their last five straight.
It’s worth following those trends and betting on the under for this meeting. That’s despite some solid offensive talent for both teams.
Odds
Line: BAL (-6)
Over/Under: 43.5
The Browns may actually be better post-Griffin. McCown can work the pocket and spread the ball around better than RG3.
His more polished mechanics are good news for rookie wide receiver Corey Coleman. Yet, the Ravens have their own deep threat in the form of Mike Wallace, who hauled in a 66-yard score against the Bills.
Each team can also trust a dependable running game. Veteran Justin Forsett still has enough tread on the tyres to make the Ravens dangerous on the ground. On the other side, Isaiah Crowell is a nifty cutback runner who can rip off the big gains.
Next: 2016 NFL season: Epic season preview
Still, the under remains a good bet because of the defensive nous on both sidelines. Dean Pees is a wily coordinator for the Ravens, one who knows how to confuse blocking schemes with a myriad of fronts.
His system lets talents such as Terrell Suggs, Timmy Jernigan and C.J. Mosley thrive.
Cleveland’s D’ receives expert guidance from Ray Horton, a zone-blitz specialist. He can rely on some useful talent in the form of cornerback Joe Haden and middle linebacker Demario Davis.
It’s safe to stick with the under for what should be a hard-fought affair.