The Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals square off in an AFC North matchup today. For the home team Bengals, it is a chance to put another blemish on a division rivals record and continue to prove themselves worthy of being in the playoff discussion. For the visiting Browns, it is a chance to move on from a chaotic week.
After a shocking loss to the New York Jets in Week 8, Cincinnati sits a half game back of the Baltimore Ravens at the top of the division. After losing to the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 8, Cleveland sits a game and a half back in the division but only a half-game back in the chase for a wild card spot.
A lot could change with today’s matchup.
For the Browns, one change is certain: Odell Beckham Jr. will no longer be on the team. As expected, Donovan Peoples-Jones is likely to get the starting nod returning from missing two games with an injury. Cleveland is also expecting to have two important defenders, according to Ian Rapoport, for today’s game:
With WR Odell Beckham Jr headed for waivers, #Browns WR Donovan Peoples-Jones (groin) is expected to take his place as a starter despite bieng questionable. Meanwhile, DE Jadeveon Clowney (ankle, knee) and CB Denzel Ward (hamstring) should be good, source said.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 7, 2021
With Bengals QB Joe Burrow leading a high-flying offense, Ward and Clowney could be vital for the defense. With Joe Mixon leading the home team’s balanced rushing attack, Clowney’s strength, length and speed at the line of scrimmage will be important.
If those three are able to play, Cleveland still has a few questionable players that could miss the game including Takk McKinley. Official word will come about 90 minutes before game time.
