Is the total for Saturday’s Browns vs. Ravens Week 18 NFL matchup set too low? Kickoff for this AFC North divisional matchup is set for 4:30 p.m. ET.
Game Matchup & Betting Odds
Cleveland Browns (+20) at Baltimore Ravens (-20); o/u 41.5
M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore, MD
4:30 p.m. ET, Saturday, January 4, 2025
TV: ESPN/ABC/ESPN+
Browns vs. Ravens Public Betting: Bettors Leaning Towards Baltimore
Our NFL Public Betting Information page indicates that 52% of public bettors are currently backing the Ravens when it comes to the spread. This information is subject to change throughout the day, however, so be sure to check the link so you’re receiving the most up-to-date public betting data.
Browns to start Zappe
Beat reporter Tom Withers reports Bailey Zappe will start for the Browns in Week 18 against the Ravens. Dorian Thompson-Robinson played through a calf injury as the Browns’ starter last week, completing just 24-of-47 passes for 170 yards and one touchdown. The team is evidently ready to see what Zappe has in store. The third-year player has flashed talent at times, playing for the Patriots in his first two seasons. He is not a recommended QB1 starter in Week 18.
Ravens rule out Hill
Ravens ruled out Justice Hill (concussion/illness) for Week 18 against the Browns. Hill was completely unable to practice this week and will unfortunately miss Week 18 as the Ravens attempt to hold the No. 3 playoff seed. Backup rookie RB Rasheen Ali (hip) practiced in full on Thursday and has been cleared for action. He will replace Hill in the lineup.
Browns vs. Ravens Betting Trends
Cleveland is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Baltimore
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Cleveland’s last 5 games
Baltimore is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games at home
Baltimore is 13-3 SU in its last 16 games when playing at home against Cleveland
Browns vs. Ravens Prediction:
This is the hardest week in the NFL to handicap. Most teams have nothing to play for and the ones that do might pull their starters at some point in decided games. Nonetheless, I do like the over in the first half today. The Ravens might hit this on their own. They need a win to secure the AFC North Division, so their starters will be in for at least the first half. This Cleveland team has the pieces defensively to contain the Ravens, but there’s nothing on the line for the Browns. They can start their offseason as soon as this game is over, so I expect them to go through the motions to some degree.
Browns vs. Ravens NFL Prediction: Browns/Ravens over 21.5 First Half (-110)