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5 bold predictions for the Bengals vs. Browns matchup in Week 2

Bengals, Joe Burrow
Sam Greene/Cincinnati Enquirer-USA TODAY NETWORK

5. Burrow Outplays Baker

Joe Burrow had quite a roller coaster of a day. After taking a pure beating and running for his life in the first half, Burrow kept his composure, audibled to a QB draw, and scrambled into the endzone for his first NFL touchdown.

In the second half, Burrow missed some targets but made some big-time throws in crunch time. Coming down to a two-minute drill, Burrow hit seven out of 10 passes with no timeouts. He hit A.J. Green on an out route that should have been the game-winning touchdown, but Green was called for offensive pass interference. Randy Bullock then trotted out and missed a game-tying, 31-yard field goal.

Burrow finished his night with 23-36 for 193 yards, one interception, and one rushing touchdown. He made sure to acknowledge that the offense did not make enough plays and that he missed throws “that a high schooler could make.”

Baker Mayfield was similarly running for his life and making costly mistakes. Baker threw an interception on the opening drive of the game and was sacked twice throughout the game. Baker did have one touchdown to David Njoku, but clearly was not the debut that new head coach Kevin Stefanski was looking for.

Baker finished the game 21/39 for 189 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. In what was supposed to be a bounce-back year for the former Heisman winner, Mayfield struggled in the opener. However, the Ravens are a top 10 defense and a true test for any quarterback.

Both Mayfield and Burrow are confident in themselves and their team. But my money is on Joe Burrow to bounce back stronger. He won’t miss open receivers John Ross and A.J. Green anymore. During training camp, after an off day, Burrow would come lights out. He’ll prove that he was worth the number one overall pick come Thursday and outplay Baker Mayfield.

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