CLEVELAND — After last week's thrilling 37-34 win over the Cincinnati Bengals to advance to 5-2 on the season, the Cleveland Browns will return to action on Sunday to face the Las Vegas Raiders.
What follows is everything you need to know about the Browns' Week 8 matchup:
Game info, how to watch on TV, betting line:
Date: Sunday, November 1, 2020
Time: 1:00 ET
Location: FirstEnergy Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio
TV channel: FOX
Live Stream: Fox Sports Live
Radio: ESPN 850, 92.3 The Fan, 98.5 WNCX
Betting line: Cleveland -2.5
Over-under point total: 51
Game preview
Off to their best start since the 1994 season, only one game stands between the Browns and their bye week. That game, however, could have huge implications for Cleveland's playoff chances, with the 3-3 Raiders also possessing the potential to be fighting for an AFC Wild Card spot at season's end.
With Odell Beckham Jr. suffering a season-ending torn ACL, the Browns offense will be shorthanded -- although some have suggested Baker Mayfield might be a better quarterback without his star wide receiver in the lineup. Meanwhile, Myles Garrett will have an opportunity add to his season-leading sack total should he be able to play through an ankle injury that's hampered him throughout the week.
Prediction
I'm not sold the Browns are better off without Beckham, especially as it pertains to their run game. But Las Vegas' defense ranks 31st in Football Outsiders' DVOA and should present Mayfield with another opportunity to build on his momentum.
On the other side of the ball, Cleveland's defense will have its hands full containing a Raiders offense built to beat it where it's weak -- particularly with tight end Darren Waller. I expect a shootout, but for the Browns to enter the bye week victorious.
Final score: Browns 42, Raiders 35