Kansas City (12-1) is set to take on Cleveland (3-10) this Sunday at 1 p.m. EST, with CBS broadcasting the game. BetMGM has the Chiefs favored by four points, while both teams’ records against the spread reflect a challenging season, with Kansas City at 5-8 and Cleveland at 4-9. Historically, the Chiefs maintain a slight edge in the series with a record of 14 wins, 11 losses, and 2 ties. Their latest encounter saw Kansas City narrowly defeat Cleveland with a score of 33-29 on September 12, 2021, at Arrowhead Stadium. In their most recent outings, the Chiefs squeezed past the Chargers with a 19-17 victory, while the Browns faced a setback against the Steelers, losing 27-14.
Analyzing their performances this season, the Chiefs’ offense is ranked 16th overall, but they excel in scoring (7th) and boast a strong rushing defense (3rd), despite struggles in passing defense (20th). Conversely, the Browns have found it tough offensively, standing 22nd in total offense, and are particularly weak in the rushing department at 30th overall. Their defense is ranked 21st overall, with specific weaknesses in rushing (22nd) and scoring (26th). In terms of ball security, both teams are struggling; the Chiefs have a turnover differential of minus-4, while the Browns sit at minus-10.
A key player for the Chiefs to watch is wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins. Acquired from Tennessee, Hopkins has been impactful, consistently getting open and becoming a reliable target for quarterback Patrick Mahomes, particularly in the red zone, contributing to his impressive stats of 30 receptions for 357 yards and four touchdowns in just seven games. For the Browns, defensive end Myles Garrett stands out, bringing his prowess as the reigning Defensive Player of the Year into play, aiming to surpass the 100-sack milestone against Mahomes.
A critical matchup to watch will be Cleveland’s linebackers and defensive backs as they attempt to contain Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce. Kelce’s exceptional connection with Mahomes and his ability to exploit defenses in the middle of the field poses a considerable challenge for the Browns. Additionally, with roots in Cleveland, Kelce aims to shine in his hometown.
Injuries could impact the game significantly. On the Chiefs’ side, offensive tackle D.J. Humphries is dealing with a hamstring injury, while the Browns have questions surrounding tight end David Njoku (hamstring) who missed practices this week, along with wide receiver Cedric Tillman (concussion) who will sit out yet another game. Left guard Joel Bitonio has returned to practice but is still in doubt.
Historically, the Chiefs have had the upper hand in recent matchups, winning their last four consecutive regular-season meetings, along with five in a row overall, including a playoff game in 2020. Coach Andy Reid has an unblemished record against the Browns since joining Kansas City, sitting at 5-0, while quarterback Patrick Mahomes boasts a 3-0 mark versus them. Nonetheless, it’s worth noting that Cleveland holds a favorable home record against the Chiefs at 8-4-1.
On the statistics front, the Chiefs have secured their ninth consecutive AFC West title, and they are entering a compact schedule with three games in just 11 days, continuing with a home game against Houston and a Christmas Day showdown in Pittsburgh. In addition, Kansas City has notched two narrow victories, both by a scoreline of 19-17. Mahomes is on the verge of breaking Derek Carr’s mark for passing yards in the first eight NFL seasons. Kelce continues to impress, seeking to extend his record of nine consecutive seasons with at least 80 receptions and aiming to break the franchise record for most receiving touchdowns. On the Browns’ front, while trying to maintain some dignity after playoff elimination, their kicking situation has become worrisome as kicker Dustin Hopkins struggles, and they have signed Riley Patterson to the practice squad as a precautionary measure.
As for fantasy implications, Jerry Jeudy has emerged as a key target for the Browns, especially after the departure of Amari Cooper. With 678 receiving yards because of a heightened role since Week 8, Jeudy looks to capitalize on his performance to reach his first 1,000-yard season, making him crucial for Cleveland’s chances in what could be a challenging matchup against the Chiefs.