Dan's take:
Buffalo's
banged up running game faces yet another tough contest, as the Browns
defense leads the league in yards per carry allowed. After a statement
game against Joe Flacco and the Ravens' offense, a Kiko Alonzo-led pass
defense grounds rookie quarterback Brian Hoyer and Cleveland's stagnant run game.
Buffalo's road road losing streak will end at five if E.J. Manuel can
continue to build his chemistry with Robert Woods, and if he can keep
the interceptions under wraps like weeks 1 through 3.
Prediction: Bills 20, Browns 13
Since Hoyer took over the starting quarterback duties, the Browns have
been able to pair their talented defense with a potent offense and
string together a couple of wins. They'll host a Bills team that just
topped the defending champion Ravens and looks to put together a streak
of their own. Thursday night games tend to favor the team with the
better defense and the one that's playing at home. The Browns are both
and will win handily.
Prediction: Bills 20, Browns 13
Sean's take:
Nick's take:
Both teams are coming off somewhat surprising wins over AFC North teams, and both are feeling pretty good heading into a national-stage battle. Joe Haden and the rest of Cleveland pass defense will make things very tough for Manuel if it stuffs C.J. Spiller and Fred Jackson early the way it has everyone else's running games. However, the Browns' offense is up against no slouch, either. Hoyer will have to play smart football against a ballhawking defense and will lean on tight end Jordan Cameron, who is tied for a league-high 30 receptions at his position.
Prediction: Browns 16, Bills 13
