As we get ready for the start of the NFL Playoffs, here are three bold predictions for the matchup between the Cleveland Browns and Houston Texans.
With the NFL Playoffs getting underway this weekend, the first game of the playoffs will be the Cleveland Browns against the Houston Texans. While many would have expected the Browns to be in the playoffs to start the season, this Browns roster likely wouldn’t have been picked by anyone to make the playoffs.
For the Texans, the rebuild looks to have been a quick one, as they were able to find their franchise quarterback in C.J. Stroud in the first round this season. Stroud has been great for the Texans this season and has them back in the playoffs.
With what looks to be a close game according to the spreads in Las Vegas, here are three bold predictions.
Njoku is the leading receiver
One area that the Browns might have a distinct advantage in is the passing game against the Texans. The Texans are allowing the 23rd most passing yards in the NFL this season, and despite injuries on offense, the Browns have been moving the ball well through the air.
A reason for their success through the air has been the playoff of tight end David Njoku. Njoku has been playing well down the stretch for the Browns, as he has totaled at least 90 receiving yards in his last three games, one of which was against the Jets.
NFL NEWS & RUMORS: Cleveland Browns, Houston Texans Updates
While Njoku only totaled 44 yards in the recent matchup against the Texans, he is playing at a very high level for the Browns right now and should be poised for a big game.
Prediction: Njoku leads both teams in receiving yards.
Flacco outduels Stroud
One of the best stories in the NFL down the stretch was the performance of Joe Flacco. Flacco came off the couch at home and helped lead the Browns to the playoffs. While many likely thought Flacco would be asked to manage games for the Browns with their defense, he has done a lot more than that.
In his last four games, Flacco has gone over 300 passing yards in each of them. This presents a big challenge for the Texans’ defense, as they haven’t been great against the pass this season.
NFL NEWS & RUMORS: Cleveland Browns, Houston Texans Updates
While on paper many would think that Stroud would perform better than Flacco in this game, Flacco has a much better defense behind him, who should be able to slow down Stroud. For the Browns, the Cinderalla story of Flacco will continue and he will show the rookie how to win in the playoffs.
Prediction: Flacco throws for over 300 yards and totals more yards than Stroud.
Browns advance
With this being the first game of the playoffs, all eyes will be on it. These are both two very deserving teams and this should be a fun matchup to kick off the NFL playoffs. The young Texans do have the advantage of being at home in this game, as they won the AFC South. However, the Browns have a veteran group and should be ready for what’s in store.
NFL NEWS & RUMORS: Cleveland Browns, Houston Texans Updates
As a slight favorite, the Browns have a much better defense and an offense led by a red-hot quarterback. The last time Flacco was playing like this, he won a Super Bowl with the Ravens. While reaching the Super Bowl is the ultimate goal, the Browns will have to handle business on the road in Texas first.
Prediction: Browns win 24-17
