Posted on Nov 17

Clash in the Crescent City: Saints vs. Browns Showdown

u/alex • 2m

Sunday, November 12 | 1:00 PM ET | Fox

Saints (3-7) vs. Browns (2-7)

The Saints are gearing up to host the Browns in what promises to be a gritty battle on the gridiron. With both teams struggling this season, every game counts as they fight to turn their fortunes around.

History Matters

The Browns hold a commanding 13-6 series lead over the Saints, including a recent victory in Cleveland on December 24, 2022. Cleveland has dominated New Orleans historically, going 8-3 in the Superdome. However, last week's meeting saw the Saints edge out the Browns 17-10, hinting at a possible shift in momentum.

Key Matchups to Watch

Rookie LT Taliese Fuaga vs. DE Myles Garrett: This is a battle of rising talent versus seasoned prowess. Fuaga’s agility on the offensive line will be put to the test against Garrett, who is second in the NFL with 95.5 sacks since 2017. Garrett’s relentless pass rush could cripple the Saints' quarterback, Derek Carr.

Players to Spotlight

Cleveland’s Jameis Winston: Returning to a familiar turf, Winston is looking to replicate his impressive debut with 334 yards and 3 TDs against Baltimore. After a rocky second start, he needs consistency to lead Cleveland’s offense.

Saints’ Alvin Kamara: A versatile threat, Kamara has surpassed 100 yards from scrimmage in seven of ten games this season. Last week, he became the Saints' all-time leading rusher with 6,544 yards. Watch him exploit Cleveland’s struggling defense.

Defensive Duels

Cleveland’s defense is stellar, ranking 16th overall. They excel against the pass, with CB Denzel Ward leading the league with 15 passes defensed. Meanwhile, the Saints’ defense is battling through injuries, including questionable status for key players like Lucas Patrick and Pete Werner.

Injuries to Note

Cleveland faces uncertainty with DT Mike Hall Jr. questionable and LB Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah on injured reserve. The Saints could be missing Lucas Patrick and Jamaal Williams, potentially weakening their offensive line and backfield.

Stats and Trends

The Browns are desperate to revive a season that started with Super Bowl hopes. Nick Chubb is finding his stride post-surgery, and Cedric Tillman is emerging as a bright spot with three receiving TDs in recent games. On the flip side, the Saints have a middling offense, ranking 16th overall but struggling defensively with a turnover differential of +4.

Fantasy Tip

Keep an eye on Cedric Tillman. With Cedric stepping up after Amari Cooper’s trade to Buffalo, he’s become a pivotal part of Cleveland’s offense. Tillman’s 21 catches in the last three games make him a valuable fantasy asset against a Saints defense that’s vulnerable in the passing game.

Prediction

This game boils down to defense versus offense. Cleveland’s stout defense will aim to shut down Alvin Kamara and Derek Carr, while the Saints’ versatile offense seeks to capitalize on Browns' defensive lapses. Given Cleveland’s historical edge and defensive prowess, they have the tools to control the game.