Week 13: Cleveland Browns at Denver Broncos – Everything we know
As the NFL season enters the critical stretch of December football, Week 13 features a compelling matchup between the Cleveland Browns and the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High. Both teams have their sights set on postseason berths, making this game crucial for their playoff aspirations. Here’s everything we know leading up to this showdown.
Cleveland Browns: A Defense-Led Playoff Contender
Season So Far
The Browns enter Week 13 with one of the NFL’s top defensive units, anchored by All-Pro pass rusher Myles Garrett. Defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz has crafted a scheme that ranks among the league leaders in yards allowed per game. Despite injuries at the quarterback position, Cleveland’s defense has kept them competitive.
Offensively, the Browns have leaned on their running game since the injury to Deshaun Watson. Backup QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson has shown flashes of promise but remains inconsistent. With key weapons like Amari Cooper and Elijah Moore, the Browns will need balance against a Denver defense that has found its rhythm.
Denver Broncos: Riding the Wave of Momentum
Season So Far
The Broncos started the season slowly under first-year head coach Sean Payton but have surged recently, fueled by an opportunistic defense. After their shocking Week 8 win over the Kansas City Chiefs, Denver has rattled off consecutive victories, putting themselves back in the playoff hunt.
Quarterback Russell Wilson has shown marked improvement under Payton’s tutelage. While the Broncos’ offense still ranks in the middle of the pack, timely plays and a commitment to the run game, led by Javonte Williams, have been key.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Browns’ Defensive Line vs. Broncos’ Offensive Line
Myles Garrett is a game-wrecker, and Denver’s offensive line will need to play its best game to protect Russell Wilson. Garrett’s ability to pressure Wilson could force hurried throws, giving the Browns’ secondary opportunities for turnovers. - Broncos’ Secondary vs. Browns’ Passing Game
Patrick Surtain II will likely shadow Amari Cooper, a matchup of elite talent. Surtain’s ability to neutralize Cleveland’s top receiving threat will be pivotal in Denver’s defensive game plan. - Broncos’ Red Zone Offense vs. Browns’ Red Zone Defense
Denver has struggled to convert red zone trips into touchdowns, while Cleveland’s defense thrives in high-leverage situations. This battle could determine the game’s outcome.
Injury Updates
Cleveland Browns
- Deshaun Watson (QB): Out for the season with a shoulder injury.
- Denzel Ward (CB): Questionable with a neck injury but could play.
- Nick Chubb (RB): Out for the season, leaving Jerome Ford to carry the workload.
Denver Broncos
- Jerry Jeudy (WR): Questionable with a hip issue but trending toward playing.
- Baron Browning (LB): Expected to return after missing Week 12.
Implications and Prediction
Both teams are battling for playoff positioning in the crowded AFC. The Browns, at 7-4, are in the thick of the wild card race, while the Broncos, at 6-5, are clawing their way back into contention. The altitude at Mile High could be a factor, particularly for Cleveland’s defense, which thrives on high-energy, physical play.
Prediction
- Final Score: Denver Broncos 20, Cleveland Browns 17
- Denver’s recent momentum and home-field advantage may give them the edge in this tightly contested game. Expect a low-scoring affair dominated by defense.
This Week 13 matchup has all the makings of a playoff-caliber clash. Whether it’s Myles Garrett wreaking havoc or Russell Wilson leading a game-winning drive, fans can expect an intense, hard-fought battle in Denver.
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