.jpg "Bengals-at-Browns-(CBS)")
Cincinnati played much better last time out than in its first two games but watched as the Packers staged a late rally and then won in overtime. It was a tough blow for a Bengals team which had designs of making the playoffs this year.
The Browns are in rebuilding mode but have been competitive in two of their first three contests. They have a reasonable shot of pulling this upset and claiming their first win of the season, but they will need to play well to do so.
This matchup in Week 4 of the regular season will take place on Sunday, October 1, 2017, at 1 p.m. ET at FirstEnergy Stadium.
Opening NFL Odds at BookMaker.eu
Cincinnati Bengals -3.5
Cleveland Browns +3.5
Over/Under 40
Odds Analysis
The Browns are slightly more than field goal underdogs and the bettors like that spread, with more than 72 percent of the early money on Cleveland to cover. The scoring total is low for an NFL game, but that’s a nod to a pair of struggling offenses.
Despite that figure, about two-thirds of the early wagers have come in on the “under” for this matchup.
Injury Report
Tyler Eifert – The Bengals tight end missed this weekend’s game against the Packers due to a back injury. No word yet on when he will return. He is a big target for Cincinnati in the red zone. The 27-year-old also missed several games last season due to injury.
Vontaze Burfict – The Cincinnati linebacker is due to return from suspension this week after sitting out the first three games of the season. Burfict was suspended for five games for targeting during a preseason game against the Chiefs, but the punishment was reduced to three games after an appeal. Burfict had 73 total tackles last season and two interceptions.
Myles Garrett – This year’s No. 1 overall pick missed his third straight game last weekend as the Browns faced the Colts, but could be close to making his NFL debut, reports indicate. The rookie defensive end has been sidelined after suffering a high ankle sprain in practice days before the start of the season. He was seen doing drills prior to Sunday’s game, which could b a good sign that he’s nearing full health.
Player To Watch
A.J. Green -- The best player on the field will be the Bengals’ wide receiver. He had a slow start to the season and made a public plea to get the ball more after the Week 2 loss to the Texans, and quarterback Andy Dalton obliged last time out.
Green had 10 catches for 111 yards and a touchdown to help keep the team in control until the very end. The Browns don’t have anyone who can stick with him defensively, so expect a big day from the superstar pass-catcher. In what could be a close game, the presence of Green could help tip the scales in the direction of the Bengals.
Free ATS Pick
Cleveland has stayed close against the Steelers at home and the Colts on the road this season, so it is making progress. However, the Bengals are clearly the better team in this matchup. Unless the Browns get a few lucky bounces, Cincinnati should be able to eventually take control.
Choose the Bengals to both win this game and cover the spread, with the “over” the right choice as Cincinnati’s offense should be able to put up some points.
NFL Odds: Bengals 24, Browns 17
BookMaker offers play-by-play betting odds for live sporting events every day! The user-friendly wagering interface on your smartphone provides an easy way to place bets on the go. Mobile betting lines are updated by the minute, so click here to start gambling on thrilling live action at BookMaker Sportsbook!
