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5 Bold Predictions for Texans vs. Browns

5 Bold Predictions for Houston vs. Cleveland

5 Bold Predictions for Houston vs. Cleveland
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We’ve come to mid-November, and the Cleveland Browns find themselves in first place. It’s incredibly hard to believe, given the numerous negative predictions for the team coming into the season. They look to keep their momentum alive this Sunday as they host the Houston Texans, who will be giving Ryan Mallett his first NFL start. It’s definitely an interesting matchup, and with that in mind, here are five predictions to keep an eye out for.

1. Cleveland Puts Forth Yet Another Slow Start

1. Cleveland Puts Forth Yet Another Slow Start
Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

1. Cleveland Puts Forth Yet Another Slow Start

1. Cleveland Puts Forth Yet Another Slow Start
Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

For some reason, the Browns have opened many games this season as if they were stuck in the mud, especially after emotional wins like last week’s. Something tells me this will occur again Sunday. After spending an extended week in first place, I wouldn’t be surprised if Cleveland struggles to get in rhythm for a bit. Whether or not they’ll be able to shake out of it is anyone’s guess.

2. The Browns Can't Stop Arian Foster

2. The Browns Can't Stop Arian Foster
Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

2. The Browns Can't Stop Arian Foster

2. The Browns Can't Stop Arian Foster
Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

While Cleveland’s run defense has looked a little better lately, they have yet to see someone as talented as Foster. Ranked second in the NFL in total yards, the Texans back is undoubtedly the toughest test the Browns have faced on the ground this season. I anticipate it being a very difficult task for them, and Foster will no doubt have a huge impact on how this game ends.

3. Ryan Mallett Impresses in His Debut

3. Ryan Mallett Impresses in His Debut
Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

3. Ryan Mallett Impresses in His Debut

3. Ryan Mallett Impresses in His Debut
Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

With Ryan Fitzpatrick being benched over the bye, we’re finally getting a look at the former Tom Brady understudy. While initial thought might be the Browns having an easy time stopping him, I doubt this is the case. I’m not saying he lights it up, but I’m willing to bet he looks better than you might expect. With two great receivers to throw to, don’t anticipate Mallett having too many growing pains this Sunday.

4. Ben Tate Tries to Prove Himself Against His Former Team

4. Ben Tate Tries to Prove Himself Against His Former Team
Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

4. Ben Tate Tries to Prove Himself Against His Former Team

4. Ben Tate Tries to Prove Himself Against His Former Team
Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

Tate has already made comments this week stating displeasure with his lack of carries. He definitely runs with a chip on his shoulder, and going up against his former team, said chip is going to be huge. He felt he got a raw deal in Houston, so look for him to try and show his former team they made a mistake letting him go.

5. Weather Ultimately Determines the Winner

5. Weather Ultimately Determines the Winner
Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports

5. Weather Ultimately Determines the Winner

5. Weather Ultimately Determines the Winner
Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports

It’s going to be a cold one in Cleveland this Sunday, with snow in the forecast. When it gets to the colder weeks of the season, the running game is incredibly important. Whichever team can handle the winter chill and move the ball the most efficiently on the ground is likely the one who walks away with a win.

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