The Cleveland Browns visit the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium on January 4, 2025, for their regular-season finale. Kickoff is set for 4:30 PM ET. The Ravens are leading the AFC North with an 11-5 record and have already secured their playoff position, while the Browns are at the bottom of the division with a 3-13 record, aiming to avoid finishing with the league’s worst record.
This game marks the second meeting between the teams this season. In their first encounter on October 27, the Browns pulled off a surprising 29-24 win at home, with Jameis Winston throwing for 334 yards and three touchdowns. Baltimore, however, has been dominant since then, while Cleveland has struggled mightily.
Cleveland Browns Preview – Ending a Tough Season
The Browns enter this game on a five-game losing streak, scoring just 15.5 points per game this season, the lowest in the NFL. Their quarterback situation remains unsettled, with Dorian Thompson-Robinson and Bailey Zappe likely to share snaps. Cleveland’s offense has been plagued by turnovers, leading the league with 21 interceptions.
Injuries have further hurt the Browns’ chances. Key players like Myles Garrett, David Njoku, and Jerome Ford are dealing with ailments, leaving significant holes on both sides of the ball. The defense has performed well in stretches but has been unable to compensate for an offense that ranks 27th in total yards.
With little to play for other than pride, Cleveland will need a strong defensive showing and mistake-free football to have a chance at upsetting the Ravens in Baltimore.
Baltimore Ravens Preview – Staying Sharp for the Playoffs
The Ravens are coming off a dominant 31-2 win over the Houston Texans and have won four of their last five games. Lamar Jackson continues to lead the team with MVP-caliber performances, including breaking the all-time quarterback rushing record last week. He has thrown for 39 touchdowns and only four interceptions this season.
Baltimore’s defense has been a cornerstone, allowing just 21.9 points per game and ranking first in the league against the run. The unit is supported by stars like Roquan Smith and Marlon Humphrey, who have consistently limited opposing offenses.
Despite injuries to key players like Justice Hill and Tyler Linderbaum, the Ravens have shown depth and resilience. Head coach John Harbaugh may choose to rest some starters late in the game if Baltimore builds a significant lead, but the team will be motivated to finish the season strong.
Betting Prediction
The Ravens are heavy favorites at -17.5, with the total set at 41.5 points. Given Cleveland’s offensive struggles and Baltimore’s strong defense, the under could be a solid play. The Browns will likely struggle to score, while the Ravens should control the game with a balanced attack led by Jackson.
A projected score of 28-10 suggests Baltimore will cover the spread and keep Cleveland’s offense in check. The Ravens are a safe pick to close the season with a convincing win.
Pick: Baltimore -17.5, Under 41.5
