Motivation is a hard thing to forecast truly. While anyone making a Browns vs Commanders prediction would likely expect Washington to be more determined to get a win, anything can and usually does happen in the NFL. This is one of the NFL matchups which features a team desperate for a win.
Washington is 7-7-1 and can make the playoffs with two straight wins. The Washington Commanders, however, have been falling apart down the stretch. Washington is 0-2-1 over its past three games and desperately needs to pull out of its nosedive.
Cleveland Browns has struggled all season, but the Browns are still a team in transition. Quarterback Deshaun Watson has been mostly mediocre since returning from his suspension.
With the playoffs looming, here’s a look at some information on a vital matchup for the Washington Commanders and their Super Bowl hopes. This is an interesting game for anyone looking to make NFL picks this weekend.
Best NFL Picks Week 17
Cleveland Browns vs. Washington Commanders (-2)
Cleveland vs. Washington Odds
- Venue: FirstEnergy Stadium
- Time: 1 p.m.
- How to Watch: TV, Streaming
- Where to Watch: Fox, NFL+
Browns Hope to Build Momentum for 2023
Offense
Watson and the offense have done just enough to help Cleveland record a 2-2 record in games he starts. NFL team stats show the Browns have been far from perfect. Cleveland has only scored more than 20 points in one of Watson’s starts.
NFL player stats show Cleveland’s most success on offense has come on the ground. Running back Nick Chubb has piled up 1,344 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns this season. Cleveland is fifth in the league in rushing yards at 147.3 per game. Watson hasn’t been sharp in the passing game but also had a lengthy absence due to suspension.
Defense
NFL odds show the Browns’ defense has had a mostly up-and-down season. Cleveland is eighth in the league against the pass but has struggled to prevent teams from scoring. The Browns give up 22.9 points per game, which ranks 21st in the league.
Commanders Need to Find Their Way
Offense
NFL odds haven’t shown Washington can be consistent on offense, no matter who is under center. That may be why the Commanders are so comfortable moving Carson Wentz back under center. Wentz played for the first time last week since early October. Wentz spent most of the season on the NFL injury report but has also struggled with being effective under center.
Anyone making Browns vs Commanders predictions will have to wonder if Wentz can steady the ship. Washington scores 19 points per game, which ranks 24th in the league. The Commanders have been fairly balanced between the rush and the pass.
Defense
Washington’s defense has made life miserable for anyone who had them on the NFL schedule. The Commanders rank fourth in the league by only allowing their opponents to gain 313 yards per game. Washington also only allows 198.6 passing yards per game, which is seventh in the league.
The Commanders only allow 20.9 points per game, which ranks 12th nationally. Washington’s defense doesn’t make a lot of splash plays. The Commanders have only forced 14 turnovers, which is 29th in the league. People making Browns vs Commanders predictions will expect Washington’s defense to try and shut down Cleveland’s running game.
NFL Stats and Standings
Cleveland is 6-9 and in fourth place in the AFC North. Anyone making Browns vs Commanders predictions will see Cleveland is 7-8 against the spread. The Browns have seen the total go 7-7-1 this season.
Washington is 7-7-1 and in fourth place in the NFC East. The Commanders are 7-7-1 against the spread. Washington has seen the total go under in nine of its 15 games. The Commanders need to find a way to keep climbing the NFL standings.
Most Remarkable Player for this Matchup
- Carson Wentz (QB) 1,612 passing yards, 11 touchdowns, six interceptions
- Nick Chubb (RB) 1,344 rushing yards, 12 touchdowns
- Deshaun Watson (QB) 703 passing yards, two touchdowns, three interceptions
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