The Cleveland Browns will take on the New Orleans Saints in a pivotal Week 11 matchup in the NFL season. Both teams enter this game looking to maintain their playoff aspirations in the tightly contested AFC and NFC races, respectively. With a blend of offensive and defensive talent, this game could shape the trajectory of each team’s season.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Browns vs. Saints matchup for Week 11: prediction, odds, spread, total, injuries, trends, and betting insights.
Game Overview:
- Date: Sunday, November 17, 2024
- Time: 1:00 PM ET
- Location: Mercedes-Benz Superdome, New Orleans, Louisiana
- Broadcast: CBS
- Streaming: NFL Game Pass, FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV
- Line: Browns -1.5, Over/Under 41.5
The Cleveland Browns (5-4) are coming off a much-needed victory in Week 10, and they will be looking to continue their strong play against the New Orleans Saints (4-5). Both teams have shown moments of brilliance, but they’ve also had their share of struggles. This game could be critical for their playoff hopes, as each team seeks to avoid a losing streak that could derail their postseason chances foxsports.com.
Betting Odds:
- Point Spread: Browns -1.5
- Over/Under: 41.5
- Moneyline: Browns -120, Saints +100
Spread Breakdown:
The Browns enter this game as 1.5-point favorites on the road, which reflects a relatively close contest. Both teams have been inconsistent this season, but the Browns have the slight edge, especially with their strong defense and the presence of Nick Chubb on offense. The Saints, playing at home, will be hoping to capitalize on their defensive strength and improve their position in the NFC South.
Over/Under Total:
The Over/Under is set at 41.5, which is on the lower end for an NFL game. This reflects the expected low-scoring nature of the matchup, with both teams having strong defenses but offenses that can struggle to consistently move the ball. The total being low indicates the likelihood of a defensive battle, with both teams relying on their defensive lines to control the game tempo.
Injury Report: Key Players
Cleveland Browns:
- Deshaun Watson (QB) – Watson has been dealing with a shoulder injury this season but has played through it. His effectiveness as the leader of the offense will be crucial for the Browns to continue their offensive efficiency schedules.
- Nick Chubb (RB) – Chubb is the focal point of the Browns’ offense and has been a workhorse in the running game. There is no current injury concern, and he will be key to taking pressure off Watson and controlling the clock.
- Denzel Ward (CB) – Ward is dealing with a concussion and his status will be critical for Cleveland’s defense. He is one of their top cornerbacks and a key player in their secondary.
- Myles Garrett (OLB) – Garrett is dealing with a minor ankle issue but is expected to play. His pass-rushing ability will be pivotal in disrupting the Saints’ offensive rhythm.
New Orleans Saints:
- Derek Carr (QB) – Carr has been playing with a shoulder issue this season, and his performance has been up and down. The Saints will need a solid performance from him to keep pace with the Browns’ defense.
- Michael Thomas (WR) – Thomas has been sidelined with a toe injury but is a vital part of the Saints’ receiving corps when healthy. His potential return would give Carr an additional weapon.
- Chris Olave (WR) – Olave has been one of the Saints’ top receivers and remains an important piece of the offense, but he has also been dealing with an ankle injury. His status should be monitored leading up to game time.
- Marshon Lattimore (CB) – Lattimore is a key player in the Saints’ secondary and a potential matchup nightmare for the Browns’ receiving corps. He is nursing a hamstring issue, so his availability will be a game-time decision.
Key Matchups to Watch
Browns Offensive Line vs. Saints Defensive Line
The Browns’ offensive line has been one of the best in the league, and it will be tasked with containing the Saints’ pass rush, led by Cameron Jordan and Demario Davis. If Cleveland can give Deshaun Watson enough time to throw, it will open up opportunities for their run game, especially with Nick Chubb in the backfield. The Saints’ defensive line will need to apply consistent pressure to disrupt the timing of the Browns’ offense.
Denzel Ward vs. Chris Olave
Denzel Ward is one of the top cornerbacks in the NFL, and his ability to shut down Chris Olave will be a critical factor in limiting the Saints’ passing attack. If Ward can neutralize Olave, it will force Derek Carr to look for other options, likely making the Saints’ offense more one-dimensional.
Myles Garrett vs. Derek Carr
Myles Garrett is a game-wrecking force on the defensive line, and he will be key in getting after Derek Carr. If Garrett can disrupt Carr’s rhythm and create pressure in the backfield, it will significantly hurt the Saints’ chances to sustain drives. Carr’s ability to avoid the sack and manage the pocket will be one of the keys to the game schedules.
Betting Trends and Insights
Cleveland Browns Trends:
- The Browns are 5-4 against the spread (ATS) this season.
- Cleveland has hit the Under in 6 of their last 8 games.
- The Browns are 2-3 on the road this season.
- The Browns are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games as the favorite.
New Orleans Saints Trends:
- The Saints are 3-5 against the spread this season.
- New Orleans has hit the Under in 4 of their last 5 games.
- The Saints are 3-1 ATS in their last 4 games as the underdog.
- New Orleans has won 4 of their last 5 home games against AFC opponents.
Prediction: Browns vs. Saints
This game is shaping up to be a defensive battle between two teams that rely heavily on their defensive lines to generate pressure. Cleveland’s defense, led by Myles Garrett, has been one of the best in the NFL this season, and they will be able to exploit the Saints’ offensive struggles. While Derek Carr and the Saints’ offense have shown moments of brilliance, they have also been inconsistent. If Denzel Ward can shut down Chris Olave, it will put additional pressure on Carr to find alternative options down the field.
On the flip side, the Browns’ offense, led by Deshaun Watson and Nick Chubb, will need to take advantage of their ability to move the ball on the ground and control the clock. Cleveland’s offensive line should be able to win the battle up front, giving Watson enough time to execute their game plan.
While the Saints are tough at home, the Browns’ defense is likely to be the difference-maker here, and they should be able to limit the Saints’ scoring chances. Cleveland will win this game with a strong defensive performance and enough production on offense to cover the small spread.
Final Score Prediction:
- Browns 20, Saints 16
Pick: Browns -1.5
Total: Under 41.5
FAQ
What time is the Browns vs. Saints game?
The Browns vs. Saints game is scheduled to begin at 1:00 PM ET on Sunday, November 17, 2024.
Where can I watch the Browns vs. Saints game?
The game will be broadcast on CBS and can be streamed via platforms like NFL Game Pass, FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, and YouTube TV.
Who is favored to win the Browns vs. Saints game?
The Cleveland Browns are 1.5-point favorites for this matchup.
What is the Over/Under for the Browns vs. Saints game?
The total for the game is set at 41.5 points.
What are the betting trends for the Browns?
The Browns are 5-4 against the spread this season and 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games as the favorite.
What are the betting trends for the Saints?
The Saints are 3-5 against the spread this season and 3-1 ATS in their last 4 games as an underdog.
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