Posted on Jan 03
Ravens set as 20-point favorites against Browns in divisional matchup
u/alex •
Ravens are heavy favorites against the Browns, but history shows that large spreads don't always guarantee a blowout.
Why it matters: The Ravens have an opportunity to secure the AFC North division title and a playoff spot with a win. Meanwhile, the Bengals need a victory and some help from other teams to keep their playoff hopes alive.
By the numbers: The Ravens are favored by 20 points, the largest spread in their franchise history. However, favorites of similar magnitude have struggled to cover the spread in the past. In the last 30 seasons, teams favored by 20 or more points are just 3-6 against the spread.
Yes, but: No favorite with a point spread of 18 or greater has lost a game outright since 1977. If the Ravens were to lose at -20, it would be considered one of the biggest upsets in NFL history.
What to watch: The absence of key players for the Browns, including running backs Jerome Ford and Pierre Strong, tight end David Njoku, and cornerback Denzel Ward, could impact their ability to compete against the Ravens.
- ESPN BET acknowledges that recent favorites with large spreads have covered, suggesting a potential trend of dominant performances.
- ESPN Research highlights the rarity of underdogs winning outright when facing such odds, emphasizing the challenge the Browns face.
What's next: The outcome of the Ravens-Browns matchup will determine the AFC North division champion and playoff seeding. Additionally, the Bengals need a win, along with losses by the Denver Broncos and Miami Dolphins, to secure a playoff berth.
The bottom line: While the odds heavily favor the Ravens, the unpredictability of sports means that anything can happen on game day. The Browns will look to defy expectations and give the Ravens a tough challenge, while the Bengals hope for favorable outcomes elsewhere to extend their season.