Cleveland Browns bold predictions for Week 18 vs. Bengals

Here are our bold predictions for the Cleveland Browns as they face the Cincinnati Bengals in the Week 18 matchup of the 2023 NFL season.

Strong’s Opportunity

With Jerome Ford and Kareem Hunt expected to see limited or no action, Pierre Strong Jr is eager to seize the opportunity to showcase his skills. Emphasizing his intention to demonstrate his abilities, Strong seems poised for significant involvement, given his impressive season averages of 4.6 yards per carry and 9.4 yards per catch. Despite running behind a slightly depleted offensive line, Strong benefits from Jeff Driskel’s tendency to target running backs. Additionally, the matchup favors him. Cincinnati’s run defense has struggled in the absence of DJ Reader. This means Strong emerges as a compelling RB for Week 18. We have him going over 80 rushing yards here.

Tillman’s Increased Role

In Week 17’s victory over the Jets, Cedric Tillman, filling in for the inactive Amari Cooper, caught one of four targets for eight yards. With increased playing time due to Cooper’s absence and Elijah Moore entering the concussion protocol, Tillman led the Browns wideouts in snaps. He showcased potential in the red zone. As the Browns prepare for their season finale against the Bengals, we fully expect injured receivers Cooper and Moore to sit. However, we foresee Tillman seeing some action here. We have him tallying a few catches for at least 40 yards.

Bryant’s Spotlight

Tight end Harrison Bryant could assume a more prominent role in the Week 18 matchup against the Bengals. That’s with starter David Njoku managing rest and dealing with knee and illness concerns. Again, the Browns, having secured the No. 5 seed, are expected to rest several starters in this inconsequential game. With Njoku sitting out, Bryant stands to benefit, potentially garnering starter’s snaps. He also faces a Bengals defense that has been quite generous against opposing tight ends. We have Bryant going over 60 yards receiving in Week 18.

Browns Take the L

As the Battle of Ohio unfolds into a clash of backups, the Browns are likely to rest many starters. These include Flacco, Ford, Cooper, Njoku, and Myles Garrett. Despite securing a postseason berth without Deshaun Watson and Nick Chubb, the Browns anticipate a strategic rest for key players in this inconsequential matchup. As for the Bengals, they are no longer playoff contenders with Joe Burrow sidelined. As such they will aim to conclude the season on a positive note. This means that Jake Browning can give Cincinnati a terrific chance to secure a winning season. They can close out Week 18 with a victory in this Battle of Ohio. Cincy wins here as the Browns look to the postseason.

Looking Ahead

As the Cleveland Browns gear up for a Week 18 clash against the Cincinnati Bengals, a series of intriguing storylines unfold. Pierre Strong Jr eyes a chance to shine in the absence of key running backs. Meanwhile, Cedric Tillman steps into a potentially expanded role, and Harrison Bryant could play a pivotal part in the passing game. With the Browns strategically resting starters, the Battle of Ohio transforms into a test for backups. This creates opportunities for lesser-known players to make an impact. Regardless of the Week 18 outcome, the Browns have already demonstrated their mettle. They have secured a playoff spot and showcased the depth that could play a crucial role in their postseason aspirations.