As the NFL preseason unfolds, the Minnesota Vikings are set to face off against the Cleveland Browns. This matchup promises an exciting quarterback duel, featuring veteran Sam Darnold against Cleveland’s Dorian Thompson-Robinson and Jameis Winston.
The Vikings are looking to rebound from a disappointing 7-10 season that was marred by injuries to key players like QB Kirk Cousins and WR Justin Jefferson. Meanwhile, the Browns aim to build on their successful 11-6 record from last season, but they find themselves in one of the toughest divisions in the NFL.
Kickoff is scheduled for 4:25 p.m. ET at Cleveland Browns Stadium. The Browns are favored by 4.5 points, with the game total set at 36.5 points.
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Darnold Takes the Helm for the Vikings
This week, the Vikings received troubling news regarding rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who has been diagnosed with a meniscus tear in his knee, requiring surgery. As a result, Darnold will step into the spotlight. In his preseason debut, he completed 4 of 8 passes for 59 yards. Darnold, who has previously played for the Jets, Panthers, and 49ers, is familiar with the pressures of starting. While he may not see extensive action in this game, fans can expect to see Jaren Hall, who threw for 63 yards in his last outing, take the field as well.
Defensive coordinator Brian Flores has been cautious, likely saving his more aggressive strategies for the regular season. Although the Vikings’ defense struggled in their opening game, offseason signings like Jonathan Greenard, Shaquill Griffin, and Andrew Van Ginkel aim to enhance the unit’s performance.
Key injuries: J.J. McCarthy (QB), Jordan Addison (WR), Shaquill Griffin (CB), T.J. Hockenson (TE), and Jerry Tillery (DT).
Cleveland Seeks Improvement in Week Two
The Browns are looking to make adjustments after suffering a 23-10 defeat to the Green Bay Packers in their preseason opener. Starting quarterback Deshaun Watson will not participate against Minnesota, leaving Thompson-Robinson and Winston to share the responsibilities as they work towards establishing a backup plan.
In their last game, Cleveland struggled offensively, gaining only 244 yards compared to Green Bay’s 375. However, Dorian Thompson-Robinson did shine, completing 14 of 18 passes for 134 yards. The rushing attack was lackluster, with the team combining for just 56 yards on the ground. Despite the loss, there is optimism for the upcoming season, especially with the additions of WR Jerry Jeudy and edge rusher Za’Darius Smith.
Key injuries: Denzel Ward (CB), Jordan Hicks (LB), David Bell (WR), Luke Wypler (C), and Za’Darius Smith (DE).
Smart Bets for the Vikings vs. Browns Matchup
Cleveland appears to have the upper hand with a more reliable offense, particularly with Thompson-Robinson demonstrating his ability to make plays. His agility could pose a challenge for Minnesota’s secondary, which has already shown vulnerability. With injuries impacting the Vikings’ roster, they might struggle to keep up, especially if Darnold’s playing time remains limited.
Given the circumstances, betting on the Browns to secure a victory and cover the spread seems prudent. Their defense, though shaky in the opener, is likely to step up against a weakened Vikings offense.
