Broncos vs. Browns Best Bets and Predictions for Monday Night Football
NFL Betting Preview: Cleveland Browns (3-8) at Denver Broncos (7-5)
Date: December 2, 2024
Time: 8:15 PM ET
Venue: Empower Field at Mile High
Current Line: Broncos -6
Total: 42
The Rundown
While laying six points requires careful consideration, this matchup has some solid statistical reasons to back Denver. The Broncos have transformed from an 0-2 start into a legitimate playoff contender, with their only recent losses coming against AFC powerhouses Baltimore and Kansas City on the road. Meanwhile, Cleveland has shown fight against quality opponents but faces significant offensive challenges.
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Why Broncos -6 ⭐⭐⭐
- Rushing Defense Advantage: Denver has held five of their last six opponents under 100 rushing yards, while Cleveland has struggled mightily on the ground, averaging just 77.4 yards per game over their last five contests at 3.7 yards per carry.
- Pass Protection Mismatch: Denver’s league-leading 3.7 sacks per game matches up perfectly against a Cleveland offensive line allowing 4.3 sacks per game. This pressure should severely limit Cleveland’s ability to establish offensive rhythm.
- Offensive Efficiency Gap: Denver averages 22.0 points per game versus Cleveland’s 16.91, with the Browns particularly struggling on the road with a season high 18 points in away games.
- Recent Form: Denver is 9-3 ATS this season and has covered five of their last six games. In the Broncos nine wins, all but one were by tren or more points.
Why Under 42 ⭐⭐⭐
- Cleveland’s Offensive Struggles: The Browns have averaged just 16.0 points over their last three games and face a Denver defense allowing only 16.83 points per game.
- Pass Rush Impact: Denver’s league-leading sack rate against Cleveland’s vulnerable offensive line should create negative plays and stall drives.
- Run Game Limitations: Cleveland’s recent rushing struggles (under 85 yards in five straight) against Denver’s stout run defense suggests limited explosive play potential.
Crew’s Predictions
Denver’s defensive strength, particularly against the run, combined with their ability to pressure the quarterback, should control this game. While Cleveland has shown fight against quality opponents, their offensive limitations will be too much to overcome at altitude.
Final Score: Denver 23, Cleveland 13
Best Bets (Ranked by Confidence)
- Under 42 ⭐⭐⭐
- Broncos -6 ⭐⭐⭐
- Browns Team Total Under ⭐⭐
