The Broncos cannot overlook any opponents, but looking at the Browns it seems that this could be their chance to “get right” against a struggling defense. For the Broncos stifling defense, they will have to stop McCown and an offense that is averaging 377.4 yards per game. A good day for Hillman, Marshall and McManus would almost certainly mean another Broncos “W.” The Broncos can improve to 6-0 before the bye, get healthy and approach the toughest part of their schedule with another road win.
Prediction: DEN 27, CLEV 16
OTHER NOTES:
The Broncos have dominated the Browns all the way back to John Elway’s early days under center. They hold a 19-5 all-time record against the Browns and are riding a 10-game win streak that dates back to 1991.
Ty Sambrailo (shoulder), DeMarcus Ware (back) were ruled out by Kubiak Friday afternoon. Even Mathis (hamstring), Aqib Talib (ankle), Demaryius Thomas (neck), Juwan Thompson (hamstring) are questionable. Kubiak stated that Thomas and Talib should be able to play while Mathis is trying to work through a hamstring injury that has plagued him for several weeks now.
According to the Browns injury report, they will be without starting free safety Tashaun Gipson (ankle), Pro Bowl cornerback Joe Haden (concussion/finger) and backup weak-side linebacker Craig Robertson (ankle). Their players listed as questionable include starting running back Isaiah Crowell (toe) and middle linebacker Karlos Dansby (ankle).
*All stats provided by the Denver Broncos Media Relations unless otherwise noted
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