This Monday we get a divisional matchup between two teams trending in opposite directions. The Bengals seem to have found their footing and the Browns are still trying to hang on waiting for Deshaun Watson’s return. Will the Bengals keep rolling or will the Browns salvage their season? Let’s take a look.

The Spread: Bengals (-3)

I got this at 3 points so that’s what I’m going with here. A lot of books have this at 3.5 which means the money’s probably coming in on the Bengals. I like Cincinnati in this spot. The Browns have lost four straight and I don’t think that stops anytime soon. Even without Ja’Marr Chase I think the Bengals still have enough on offense to get the job done. Divisional games can always be a little dicey though. I do think this game will be closer than some think it will be, but ultimately I think the Bengals get the job done. We’ve seen when the Browns have had to rely on Jacoby Brissett it hasn’t gone so well for them. Cincinnati slowing down Nick Chubb is going to be key. If Cleveland can’t run the ball Brissett is going to have a tough time keeping up with the Bengals offense. Bengals win by more than a touchdown with a late score.

The Play: Cincinnati -3

Over/Under (45)

I latched onto the Primetime under for a bit too long and now it’s starting to bite me. The Browns have been the best over team so far at 5-2 while the Bengals have been one of the worst at 2-5. 45 is a reachable number for these teams and we won’t even need a quick start to get there. The Browns have given up at least 23 points in all but one of their games. In their four wins the Bengals have scored at least 27 points. We shouldn’t have an issue with Cincy doing their part and if we can get the Browns to 20 points I think we’ll hit it.

The Play: Over 45

Final Prediction

With my earlier predictions of Bengals -3 and Over 45 give me the Bengals 30-20.