NFL Week Preview: Key Players for Baltimore Ravens and Cleveland Browns

2024 NFL Week 8 Preview: Cleveland Browns vs. Baltimore Ravens – Fantasy Football and Betting Insights

The Week 8 clash between the Browns and Ravens promises to be a gritty AFC North battle. Both teams have leaned on their defenses throughout the season, but there are key offensive pieces that fantasy football managers and bettors need to consider for this matchup. Below, we’ll dive into the most important players, fantasy football outlooks, and betting angles for this high-stakes divisional showdown.

Baltimore Ravens: Lamar Jackson Leads the Charge

The Baltimore Ravens are enjoying a strong 2024 season, largely thanks to the dynamic play of quarterback Lamar Jackson. Jackson continues to be a top-tier fantasy football option, excelling both through the air and on the ground. Even in a tough matchup against Cleveland’s defense, Jackson’s rushing ability provides a solid floor for fantasy managers. He’s a must-start, and if Baltimore falls behind, expect him to lean on his legs and short passing game.

One thing to monitor this week is the status of wide receiver Zay Flowers. Flowers missed practice time, raising concerns about his availability for Week 8. If Flowers is out, Rashod Bateman becomes an intriguing fantasy option as the team’s primary receiver. However, the most reliable target in Baltimore’s passing game remains tight end Mark Andrews, who has returned to form and should see a healthy number of targets.

Fantasy Football Tip: Jackson is a must-start, but keep an eye on Flowers’ status. If Flowers sits, Bateman is worth a look as a WR3 or flex option. Andrews should remain a top-3 fantasy tight end and is a lock for a big role in the Ravens’ offense, especially if Flowers is sidelined.

Betting Tip: Consider betting on Lamar Jackson’s rushing yards over. Cleveland’s defense is tough, but Jackson’s mobility makes him a threat to pick up significant yardage on the ground, particularly in high-pressure situations. Also, if Flowers is out, Andrews becomes a good target for an over on receptions or receiving yards.

Cleveland Browns: Can the Offense Find a Spark?

The Browns have been struggling on offense in 2024, and it doesn’t get any easier against a strong Baltimore defense. The key piece for Cleveland remains Nick Chubb, who continues to work his way back from injury. While Chubb is one of the most talented backs in the league, his usage has been somewhat limited as the Browns ease him back into full action. He’s still a must-start in fantasy, but expectations should be tempered, as Chubb will likely need a touchdown to deliver strong fantasy value against a stout Ravens front seven.

One player who has emerged as a potential bright spot for Cleveland’s offense is tight end David Njoku. After a solid performance last week, Njoku has built a bit of momentum and could be a useful option for fantasy managers in need of tight end help. With Deshaun Watson out for the season, the Browns could turn to their backup quarterback, Jameis Winston, which may lead to more involvement for Njoku in the passing game.

Fantasy Football Tip: Chubb remains a start, but don’t expect huge yardage against a tough Ravens run defense. He’s more of a low-end RB1 or RB2 this week, with touchdown upside. Njoku is a sneaky TE1 option, especially if Winston plays, as Winston has shown a tendency to rely on tight ends in the past.

Betting Tip: Bet the under on Cleveland’s team total points. The Browns have struggled to move the ball consistently, and the Ravens’ defense is one of the best in the league. With questions at quarterback and Chubb still not at full strength, Cleveland’s offense may have trouble putting up big numbers.

Ravens Defense: A Top Fantasy Start in Week 8

The BRavens’ defense is one of the top fantasy plays in Week 8. The Browns’ offensive issues have been well-documented, and with Cleveland potentially leaning on Winston at quarterback, Baltimore’s defense could feast. Winston is known for his aggressive style, which often leads to turnovers, and the Ravens have the pass rush to pressure him into mistakes.

Whether it’s stopping Chubb or forcing Winston into bad decisions, the Ravens’ defense has the tools to dominate this matchup. If you’re playing in a fantasy league that values sacks and turnovers, Baltimore’s defense should be near the top of your list this week.

Fantasy Football Tip: The BRavens’ defense is a must-start in all formats. They have a strong chance to rack up sacks and turnovers against a struggling Browns offense.

Betting Tip: Consider betting on the Ravens’ defense to force multiple turnovers, and take the under on Cleveland’s total offensive yards. Baltimore’s defense is likely to control this game from start to finish, making these prop bets attractive.

Key Matchups to Watch

• Lamar Jackson vs. Browns Defense: The Browns have one of the best defenses in the league, but Jackson’s dual-threat ability gives him an edge in any matchup. The key will be whether Jackson can escape pressure and pick up yards with his legs, as Cleveland’s secondary has been strong against the pass.

• Nick Chubb vs. Ravens Front Seven: Chubb is always a threat when healthy, but the Ravens’ defense has been excellent against the run. Chubb will need to break a few big runs or score a touchdown to have a strong fantasy day.

• Mark Andrews vs. Browns Linebackers: With Flowers potentially out, Andrews could be in line for a huge game. Cleveland’s linebackers have been solid, but Andrews is a mismatch for most defenses, and Jackson will look his way often.

Game Prediction and Betting Overview

This game should be a classic AFC North battle, with both teams leaning on their defenses. The Ravens have a significant edge on offense with Jackson, and the Browns’ quarterback uncertainty could make it tough for them to keep up. Expect Baltimore to control the pace of the game with their balanced attack and take advantage of Cleveland’s offensive struggles.

Score Prediction: Ravens 23, Browns 13

Betting Tips:

• Baltimore Ravens -6.5: The Ravens should cover the spread, especially if Cleveland’s offense continues to struggle. With Jackson under center and the Ravens’ defense playing at a high level, this game could be a comfortable win for Baltimore.
• Under 41.5 total points: Both teams boast strong defenses, and with Cleveland’s offense struggling, this game could easily hit the under. Expect a low-scoring affair with plenty of defensive stops.
• Nick Chubb under rushing yards: Chubb may struggle to find running lanes against Baltimore’s stout defensive front, making the under on his rushing yards a solid bet.

Conclusion: Ravens Defense Dominates, Browns Struggle

The Week 8 matchup between the Ravens and Browns has all the makings of a defensive battle. While Jackson and Andrews should have enough firepower to push the Ravens to victory, the Browns’ offense will likely struggle to keep pace. Chubb and Njoku are the only real fantasy options for Cleveland, but their upside is limited against Baltimore’s tough defense. For bettors, the Ravens covering the spread and the game total going under are the best plays in what should be a hard-fought, low-scoring game.

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