How The Browns Could Upset The Las Vegas Raiders

After opening up as -6.5 point betting favorites, the Cleveland Browns have become the underdog (+1.5) after a myriad of COVID-19 cases.

Here's why the Cleveland Browns could win this game outright and cash your bets.

Nick Chubb Factor

One team has Nick Chubb and the other team doesn't. Pretty simple stuff.

In the last two games against the Baltimore Ravens, Chubb has rushed for just 75 yards. He's due for a breakout game. With COVID-19 wiping out the starting left tackle, right guard, tight end, wide receiver, and quarterback, Saturday is the day for a healthy dose of Chubb.

While the offensive line will be without road-grazers Jedrick Wills Jr. and Wyatt Teller (COVID), and Jack Conklin (knee), Michael Dunn has proved serviceable inside at guard. The interior should be able to hold it down for Chubb.

Remember what Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels did to the Buffalo Bills in primetime? Alex Van Pelt doesn't need to hold Nick Mullens to just three passes, but it's proved possible.

The Raiders are 26th in rush defense. Even after that performance in the snow, the Bills are ranked fourth. Run the football.

Defense

As of Thursday, Myles Garrett, Jadeveon Clowney and Denzel Ward are all healthy enough to play in this game. That could somehow be enough.

The Chiefs held the Raiders to just 9 points last week.

Defense has been Cleveland's calling card these last few weeks, shutting down dual-threat QB Lamar Jackson's high-powered offense and holding the Detroit Lions to just 10 points.

Even after releasing Henry Ruggs III and potentially being without Darren Waller (knee and back), the Raiders still let Derek Carr throw a ton of bombs. Force them to miss on those downfield shots and the Browns will have life in this game.

The Pick

When the cards are stacked against the Browns, they find a way to respond.

With all of the COVID-19 cases in Berea, expect this to be a close game. If Mullens could do what he did with the San Francisco 49ers, and the defense can give them a chance, they'll be alright.

Browns Moneyline (+140).