The Cincinnati Bengals will host the Cleveland Browns in a Thursday night game. Both teams beat Florida teams on Sunday. The Bengals beat the Jacksonville Jaguars as the Browns beat the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in a close one. This game features a division matchup. A matchup of two AFC North opponents. Both teams are off to a great start. Also, both teams are in a playoff hunt in a very tough division. This division is so tough that this game could be a difference maker as to who gets in to the playoffs and who doesn't. Obviously it's early for the playoff picture but, with this matchup and this division nothing is early.
A key for Cincinnati to have a chance to win in the wide receivers. AJ Green is finally healthy and will play. Also, former Browns receiver, Greg Little, looks for revenge against the team that cut him. Against the Bucs, the Browns gave up some big plays with the receivers. Mike Evans and Vincent Jackson both had some big gains and racked up a lot of yards by the game's end. Mike Evans had a career day against the Browns secondary. If the Bengals are going to win they're going to have to throw the ball and go deep.
A key for the Browns to be able to win is in the turnover battle. The Buccaneers turned it over four times including a blocked punt and field goal. If the Browns play well on special teams it will be tough for the Bengals. If the Browns can come up with a turnover it will give the Browns a good chance to win.
The game prediction is that in the end the Cincinnati Bengals win at home. AJ Green will be the difference maker in this game. The Browns barely beat one of the worst NFL teams the Buccaneers.