Despite 7-8 Record, Cleveland Browns Still in Hunt for AFC North Title

Despite 7-8 Record, Cleveland Browns Still in Hunt for AFC North Title

By Marcus Sullivan

March 20, 2025 at 04:01 PM

The Cleveland Browns (7-8) have a realistic path to winning the AFC North title heading into Week 17, despite being at their lowest point under head coach Kevin Stefanski. Here's what needs to happen for the Browns to claim the division crown:

Required Week 17 Results:

  • Los Angeles Rams (-3.5) defeat Baltimore Ravens
  • Kansas City Chiefs (-4.5) defeat Cincinnati Bengals
  • Cleveland Browns (-2.5) defeat Pittsburgh Steelers

Week 18 Requirement:

  • Cleveland Browns defeat Cincinnati Bengals

The Browns' playoff hopes are bolstered by Baker Mayfield's impressive 6-1 record against Cincinnati, including a perfect 3-0 mark versus Joe Burrow. However, Cleveland's struggling offense faces a significant challenge against the red-hot Bengals, who recently put up 41 points against Baltimore.

While the Browns are currently +600 underdogs to win the division, all the teams they need to lose in Week 17 are betting underdogs, making their path to the title entirely possible. The key will be Cleveland's offense finding its rhythm after recent struggles to score 20+ points per game.

The final Battle of Ohio matchup in Week 18 remains the biggest hurdle, with Cleveland needing its defense to contain Cincinnati's explosive offense while hoping Mayfield and the offense can produce enough points to secure the victory and division title.

Browns vs Ravens

Browns vs Ravens

Related Articles

Previous Articles