By Stephen Rodriguez – Wannamakeabet Staff Writer
Pick of the Week: Jacksonville Jaguars (-7.5) at Cleveland Browns
Coming off an ATS loss in Los Angeles, the Jaguars draw a favorable matchup against the winless Cleveland Browns. Jacksonville won 20-17 in overtime, but struggled significantly on offense. Blake Bortles finished with 273 passing yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions. Leonard Fournette was held to just 33 yards rushing on 17 carries.
Despite the offensive struggles, the Jags defense yet again found a way to lead them to a win. Jacksonville forced two turnovers including an interception in overtime, and an Austin Eckler fumble which lead to a Josh Lambo game tying field goal at the end of regulation.
Jacksonville ranks 2nd in the NFL in total defense and have allowed a league best 14.9 ppg. The Cleveland Browns average 15.9 ppg offensively.
On the other side of the ball, the Jaguars are 7th in the league in total offense and average 25 ppg. The Browns defense have given up more than 30 points in their past two games, and average 26.7 ppg on the year.
With that said, the Cleveland Browns defense is no laughing matter when it comes to stopping the run. The Browns have allowed just 86 ypg rushing which could pose a potential problem for Leonard Fournette.
The Jaguars are 3-1 on the road this year, and have dominated in each of those victories scoring 28.7 ppg and allowing just 18 total points. Although the one loss came against the New York Jets, it’s highly unlikely for the Jags to make the same mistake twice this week. Blake Bortles, Leonard Fournette, and the offense will find their rhythm in Cleveland.
Prediction: Jaguars win 31-14
Parlay Tickets:
Pittsburgh Steelers (-7) at Tennessee Titans (Thursday Night)
Jacksonville Jaguars (-7.5) at Cleveland Browns
Baltimore Ravens (-2) at Green Bay Packers
Philadelphia Eagles (-3) at Dallas Cowboys
Atlanta Falcons at Seattle Seahawks (-3)