Baltimore @ Cleveland preview

Last Meeting ( Nov 3, 2013 ) Baltimore 18, Cleveland 24

The Baltimore Ravens attempt to defeat Cleveland for the 12th time in the last 13 meetings when they visit the Browns on Sunday. Despite its success in the series, Baltimore is always aware of the tension associated with the fact that the Ravens once called Cleveland home. “Considering the history, I think they find a little bit more hatred toward us than any other team that comes up in there, which is understandable,” Ravens linebacker Terrell Suggs told reporters.

The Johnny Manziel era is still on hold as the Cleveland rookie quarterback is running second-string behind Brian Hoyer. The Browns are coming off a victory over the New Orleans Saints and would like to notch another one prior to the upcoming bye week. Baltimore is beginning a stretch in which five of seven games are on the road but is well-rested as it hasn't played since trouncing the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sept. 11.

TV: 1 p.m. ET, CBS. LINE: Ravens –2. O/U: 44.5.

ABOUT THE RAVENS (1-1): Quarterback Joe Flacco (511 yards, three touchdowns) missed some practice time with a cold but is not in danger of sitting out the contest. Justin Forsett (126 yards) has been the beneficiary of Ray Rice’s departure due to a domestic-violence incident and is averaging 6.6 yards per carry while sharing time with Bernard Pierce (113 yards). Linebacker Elvis Dumervil has both of Baltimore’s sacks this season and has racked up 10 in six career games against the Browns.

ABOUT THE BROWNS (1-1): Hoyer (434 yards, two touchdowns) has held off Manziel with steady and consistent play and has yet to throw an interception. Running back Ben Tate (knee) is expected to sit out a second straight game but he hasn't been missed as third-round pick Terrance West leads all NFL rookies with 168 rushing yards. Outside linebacker Paul Kruger has two of Cleveland’s five sacks, free safety Tashaun Gipson recorded a 62-yard interception for a touchdown against the Saints last week and strong safety Donte Whitner has a team-high 19 tackles.

EXTRA POINTS

1. New addition Steve Smith has 13 receptions for 189 yards and one TD after two games with Baltimore.

2. Cleveland TE Jordan Cameron (shoulder) was limited in practice on Thursday while OLB Barkevious Mingo (shoulder) was able to participate.

3. Ravens CB Asa Jackson (concussion) is practicing and appears to be in line to play on Sunday.

PREDICTION: Ravens 23, Browns 20