The Chicago Bears face a significant challenge this Sunday, set to play the Cleveland Browns (+3). A $10 wager on Chicago to win against Cleveland would yield $24, while losing by less than 3 points would result in a return of $19.52. However, betting on a Chicago loss would lead to a return of $16.02.
The Bears, under Matt Eberflus, are experiencing back-to-back victories for the first time. They now prepare to confront the formidable Browns defense on the road.
Despite facing quarterback transitions and various injuries, the Browns stand as a resilient team, currently contending in the playoff race. Notably, Myles Garrett’s performance places him as a contender for Defensive MVP.
Cleveland enters the game as favorites (-3). A $10 bet on Cleveland to beat Chicago would return $16.02. If they win by precisely 3 points, the return would be $18.70. However, a wager on Cleveland’s loss would yield $24.
The Browns, with a record of 8-5, sit second in the AFC North. In their last outing, they secured a 31-27 victory against the Jacksonville Jaguars (+3.5). Placing a $10 bet on Jacksonville to beat Baltimore would have returned $25.
The upcoming game kicks off on Sunday at noon CT, airing on FOX. DraftKings Sportsbook has set the Bears as 3-point underdogs against the Browns, with a total of 38.5 points for the game.
Reviewing historical matchups, the Bears hold a 7-10 all-time record against the Browns. A notable meeting occurred in Week 15 of the 2013 season, resulting in a 38-31 win for the Bears.
In their most recent encounter in Week 3 of 2021, which marked Justin Fields’ debut start, the Bears suffered a 26-6 loss to the Browns. Fields was sacked nine times, and the Bears failed to score a touchdown.
Concerning the Browns’ current roster, they face a considerable injury report, with 13 players limited or not participating, mostly related to rest. Notable players on the list include Denzel Ward, Kareem Hunt, and Myles Garrett.
Analyzing the Browns’ performance, their offense ranks 12th in points and 19th in yards, while their defense stands out, ranking first in yards allowed and first in passing defense.
Key matchups to watch include Myles Garrett against Darnell Wright, posing a significant test for the rookie. Additionally, the Bears’ pass offense faces the league’s best Cleveland defense, demanding careful ball management from Justin Fields and adept receiver performance.
As the game unfolds, Chicago aims to exploit Cleveland’s injuries on the offensive line and capitalize on defensive strategies to disrupt Joe Flacco’s play. Tremaine Edmunds’ coverage on David Njoku and Jaylon Johnson’s matchup against Amari Cooper are pivotal aspects to observe.
Key statistics, such as Flacco’s history against the Bears, Cleveland’s third-down offense struggles, and the Bears’ improved third-down performance, shed light on potential game dynamics.
The Bears have emerged victorious in three of their last four meetings against the Browns, yet Cleveland boasts a strong home record (6-1), contrasting with Chicago’s road record (2-5).
As for concerns regarding the Browns, Myles Garrett stands out as a player with significant impact. The Bears aim to secure their most significant road win of the season by executing strategic defensive coverage, containing the Browns’ run game, and exploiting offensive vulnerabilities in Cleveland’s lineup.
