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5 Bold Predictions For Cleveland Browns vs. Carolina Panthers

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By @cdrottar19

5 Bold Predictions For Browns vs. Panthers

5 Bold Predictions For Browns vs. Panthers
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This week, the Carolina Panthers look to keep their inexplicable playoff hopes alive as they host the Cleveland Browns. Rookie Johnny Manziel will get his second start, hoping to rebound from a dreadful debut last week. Meanwhile, Cam Newton is likely getting back on the field after his frightening car crash last week. Here are five predictions to look out for in this Week 16 battle.

1. Cam Newton Spends Most of the Day in the Pocket

1. Cam Newton Spends Most of the Day in the Pocket
Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

1. Cam Newton Spends Most of the Day in the Pocket

1. Cam Newton Spends Most of the Day in the Pocket
Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

Word is Newton should be back this week after a car accident kept him out last Sunday. However, I wouldn’t expect him to show off much running ability outside the pocket. He’s dealing with fractures in his back, and may be a bit nervous about possibly exacerbating said injuries. Look for Newton to try and stay in the pocket for most of the game if he indeed gets the start Sunday.

2. Jonathan Stewart Takes Advantage of Weak Browns Run Defense

2. Jonathan Stewart Takes Advantage of Weak Browns Run Defense
Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

2. Jonathan Stewart Takes Advantage of Weak Browns Run Defense

2. Jonathan Stewart Takes Advantage of Weak Browns Run Defense
Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

Stewart didn’t have a solid game last week, but now he’ll be going up against one of the worst rushing defenses in the NFL. The Browns let Jeremy Hill run wild last week, so I highly doubt Stewart will have much trouble moving the ball downfield. With a hurt QB, look for the Panthers to lean on Stewart early and often.

3. Johnny Manziel Takes a Step Forward

3. Johnny Manziel Takes a Step Forward
Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

3. Johnny Manziel Takes a Step Forward

3. Johnny Manziel Takes a Step Forward
Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

It’s hard to believe Manziel could be any worse than he was in his season debut last week. I doubt he makes a giant leap and lights up the scoreboard. However, I do think he’ll look better Sunday. There will still be some rookie mistakes, but expect Manziel to show some progress after a disastrous day last week.

4. Joe Haden Struggles at Containing Kelvin Benjamin

4. Joe Haden Struggles at Containing Kelvin Benjamin
Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

4. Joe Haden Struggles at Containing Kelvin Benjamin

4. Joe Haden Struggles at Containing Kelvin Benjamin
Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

Benjamin has been a little hot and cold lately, but Sunday’s matchup could actually favor him. Though Haden is one of the NFL’s best corners, he’s dealing with a shoulder injury. It’s likely he’ll play, but he’ll be dealing with some soreness which may hamper his performance. Look for Carolina to test Haden’s health by going to Benjamin early on to see if it’s a matchup worth targeting.

5. Panthers Pull Off the Win

5. Panthers Pull Off the Win
Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

5. Panthers Pull Off the Win

5. Panthers Pull Off the Win
Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

At the end of the day, the Browns are limping to the finish line after a strong start to the season, and Carolina gunning for a playoff spot should give them all the motivation they need to take Cleveland down. While Manziel won’t be the walking disaster he was last week, I still think his struggles hurt the Browns’ chances at some point. Look for the Panthers to hand the rookie quarterback an 0-2 record.

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