In just three years, the Cleveland Browns have gone from failing to win any games to currently vying for their second playoff victory within a week, aiming to secure an impressive 13th win this season.
No matter what happens this weekend against the reigning Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs, it has been an incredible journey for one of the most beloved teams among West Virginia online sports bettors.
Here is the captivating NFL Divisional playoff schedule featuring these games:
Saturday
The Green Bay Packers are hosting the Los Angeles Rams.
The Baltimore Ravens will be facing off against the Buffalo Bills.
Sunday
Kansas City Chiefs hosting the Cleveland Browns
The New Orleans Saints are hosting the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Early DraftKings splits
Cleveland boasts an ample number of points and a significant portion of the DraftKings handle. By midweek, the Browns secured 40% of the funds, surpassing the percentages attained by numerous teams when playing against the Chiefs.
Otherwise, the splits are:
- Green Bay 84%
- Buffalo 61%
- Tampa Bay 59%
Shopping for the best line remains important as ever, and both William Hill and FanDuel offered the Packers at -6.5, which was great news for those looking to bet on Green Bay.
Green Bay was given a -7 spread by DraftKings, which is in the territory of a push. However, for bettors rooting for the Rams, a more favorable option would be to bet on them with a +6.5 spread.
All four overs are adored by the public, particularly favoring the Browns and Chiefs. It is anticipated that these teams will exhibit a remarkable display of offensive prowess. The over of 56, which is the highest total on the DraftKings board, has garnered a staggering 89% support.
Prop bet possibilities
Noteworthy Cleveland players for scoring at any given time include Kareem Hunt, Nick Chubb, and Jarvis Landry. Additionally, tight end Austin Hooper is a reliable option for finding the endzone. It is worth considering the passing potential of quarterback Baker Mayfield, particularly when the Browns are behind in the game.
Tyreek Hill is a favored target for Kansas City in the opening quarter, making him a popular choice for the first touchdown. However, if not Hill, Travis Kelce poses a significant scoring threat. Additionally, the number of touchdown passes thrown by Patrick Mahomes, the Kansas City quarterback, is quite appealing.
Keep an eye out for odds boosts as the kickoffs approach.
Browns: A season to savor
Did anyone expect the Browns to make it to the final eight teams competing in the Super Bowl?
In Week 1, they suffered a crushing defeat of 38-6 against the Baltimore Ravens, followed by a devastating 38-7 loss against the Steelers in midseason.
In Week 16, their team suffered the consequences of a COVID-19 outbreak, resulting in a defeat at the hands of the one-win New York Jets.
However, there were many good moments that balanced out those offset ones.
For the first time since the 1960s, the Browns have achieved the feat of scoring 30 points or more in four consecutive weeks. This remarkable accomplishment harkens back to Cleveland’s golden era, which saw their last championship and the rise of legendary players like Jim Brown, Leroy Kelly, and Frank Ryan, for those who have fond memories of that time.
During this season, Cleveland managed to exceed 40 points on four separate occasions. Noteworthy performances emerged when they achieved a stunning 49 points against the Dallas Cowboys and a remarkable 38 first-half points that ultimately secured a triumphant 41-35 victory over the Tennessee Titans.
In the realm of Monday Night Football, a pivotal game emerged as a rite of passage, showcasing the Browns’ growth. It was a fierce battle against the Ravens, near victory within their grasp. As the clock ticked towards the final two minutes, the Browns stood just one play away from triumph.
After conceding the winning score, they managed to score a touchdown themselves, only to then allow the game-winning field goal with just two seconds remaining. Following that, there was an unexpected lateral show resulting in a safety, causing disappointment for those who had bet on the spread and unexpected good outcomes for many bookmakers.
In the final two minutes, an impressive total of 20 points were scored, causing bets to be won and lost multiple times.
The Browns were on the verge of disappointment two weeks ago when their season nearly came to an end. They managed to secure a narrow victory against the Steelers in the Week 17 finale, even though some regular players were rested.
In the playoff game against Pittsburgh, they managed to score an incredible 28 points in the first quarter, thus setting a new NFL playoff record for the initial 15 minutes.
The Browns reached their true potential by securing a spot in the postseason with a victory over Pittsburgh in Week 17. Furthermore, they surpassed expectations by defeating Pittsburgh again in the playoffs and achieving their first postseason victory since 1994.
Is there a second?
Baltimore Ravens: Watch out
The team was rightfully recognized as the one that posed a formidable challenge for any opponent in the postseason.
After struggling with a 6-5 record, the Ravens turned things around following their bye week and embarked on a series of triumphs.
The unthinkable happened during the playoffs when the Ravens managed to hold Derrick Henry, the league’s top rusher, to just 40 yards. Despite Henry’s reputation as an unstoppable force, the Ravens employed a strategic move by jamming the line of scrimmage, effectively neutralizing him.
Baltimore sought vengeance against the team that eliminated them from the playoffs last season and now appears to be a dominant, run-focused team capable of wearing down their adversaries.
Lamar Jackson, the Ravens’ quarterback, continues to captivate with his magical performance. He impressively ran for 136 yards and scored a remarkable rushing touchdown. He possesses an intangible quality that is hard to define, making it difficult for opponents to keep him contained within the pocket.
The Bills, led by Josh Allen, have had a remarkable season so far. However, their victory against the Indianapolis Colts last week, despite being heavily favored, was not without its challenges. The Bills were outgained and gave up nearly 500 yards, raising doubts about their ability to replicate such a performance against the Ravens and emerge victorious.
Rams-Packers opens the playoff slate
In the face of the formidable Packers, known for their explosive gameplay, the Rams will aim to maintain ball possession in freezing 30-degree weather. Their strategy revolves around executing long, deliberate drives, which are expected to be their key to success.
In their past two games, the Rams defense has showcased their prowess by scoring defensive touchdowns consecutively.
The Green Bay team aims to adopt a fast-paced approach and secure an early advantage, compelling the Rams to adapt and shift away from their run-heavy strategy.
If you’re considering placing second-half bets, it’s worth noting that under coach Sean McVay, the Rams have an impeccable record of 37-0 when leading at halftime. Their strategic approach involves efficiently using the clock, frustrating opposing teams, and capitalizing on their impatience by provoking mistakes.
Aaron Rodgers of Green Bay delivers an extraordinary performance this season, potentially ranking as one of the best in the world. With an impressive tally of 48 touchdowns and a mere five interceptions, he has been a delight to behold. Rodgers exhibits remarkable agility within the pocket, enabling him to prolong plays while creating opportunities for his receivers to break free from their designated routes.
Davante Adams possesses exceptional receiving skills, making him a prolific threat in the game. He is not only reliable for scoring touchdowns at any point but also often secures the first touchdown of the match.
Saints and Bucs feature round 3
The arrival of Tom Brady in Tampa Bay during the offseason sparked great interest in the sportsbooks, resulting in significant changes in the odds. The Buccaneers’ chances of winning the Super Bowl went from 50-1 in certain quarters to 14-1. DraftKings has identified Tampa Bay as the team with the highest potential financial risk for them in the Super Bowl.
Brady’s presence in this game is crucial as it serves as a testament to the offseason decision made by Tampa Bay. With a remarkable streak of five consecutive wins and a successful playoff run, they have already showcased their potential. However, this particular game against the Washington Football Team truly highlights the significance of acquiring Brady.
After being trounced at home by the Saints in the midseason, the Bucs managed to bounce back and secure five consecutive victories. It is worth noting that New Orleans had also defeated Tampa Bay in the season opener.
Keep an eye out for Tampa Bay’s Mike Evans, Rob Gronkowski, and the now impactful Antonio Brown as they offer promising propositions for betting.
Given the history of the Saints’ dominance over the Bucs, it is indicated that Tampa Bay will put up a fight on this occasion.
With the return of Michael Thomas, the breakaway receiver, New Orleans gains a crucial asset. The success of the Saints heavily relies on Alvin Kamara’s ability to deliver a strong rushing performance. While their previous 21-9 triumph against the Chicago Bears may not have been awe-inspiring, it ultimately secured a well-deserved victory.
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