The Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns renew their AFC North rivalry in Week 1 at Huntington Bank Field on Sunday, September 7.
My early Bengals vs. Browns predictions and NFL picks are calling for Cincy to build off a strong 2024 finish and make it four outright and against-the-spread wins over Cleveland.
Bengals vs Browns predictions
Here are our early thoughts on the spread and total for this week’s game. We will have a full game preview (with a best bet and SGP) later in the week.
Early Bengals vs Browns spread pick: Bengals -5.5 (-105)
I’m sure there will be calls to hold your nose and back the home underdog in a divisional Week 1 matchup, but I’m not dialing up that number.
The Cleveland Browns went 4-13 against the spread last year, and 40-year-old quarterback Joe Flacco is starting the opener. There isn’t a "who’s who" of talented players on either side of the ball for the Brownies, either.
It’s a different story on the opposite sideline, especially on offense.
The Cincinnati Bengals won five straight — 4-1 ATS — to close out the 2025 season, and I’m anticipating Joe Burrow putting too many points on the board for the Browns to hang around Sunday.
Plus, Cincy has won and covered three consecutive games and four of the past five against Cleveland.
Early Bengals vs Browns total pick: Under 47.5 (-110)
The Browns averaged a league-low 15.2 points per game last season, and this 47.5 total is the highest in a Browns game since Week 4 of the 2022 season.
Yes, the Bengals have the offensive firepower to do the heavy lifting, but the Browns also need to chip in.
Cleveland has a team total of 21.5 at FanDuel, and the Browns have only hit their team total Over in five of the last 20 games (-12.90 Units / -55% ROI).
Additionally, a run-heavy, churn-the-clock game plan from Cleveland head coach Kevin Stefanski is the best path to keeping the Bengals offense off the field, and the Browns in the game.
Add a few Brownies stops on defense, and this Under will be a walk in the park.
Bengals vs Browns odds
- Bengals vs. Browns spread: Browns +5.5
- Bengals vs. Browns moneyline: Bengals -225, Browns +188
- Bengals vs. Browns Over/Under: 47.5
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
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