Cardinals vs. Browns Prediction, Pick, Odds: Will Deshaun Watson Return?
The Cleveland Browns have been anxiously awaiting the return of Deshaun Watson after weeks of injury uncertainty. Will he return to get them a much-needed win over the reshuffling Arizona Cardinals? Jason Radowitz breaks down the latest update and gives his pick in Cardinals vs. Browns.
Jason Radowitz - November 2, 2023, 10:10 AM EDT
5 minCardinals vs. Browns Prediction, Pick, Odds: Will Deshaun Watson Return?
Earlier in the week, the Arizona Cardinals head coach announced that Clayton Tune or Kyler Murray would get the start for the Cardinals this weekend.
He knew about the rumblings. Arizona was talking with the Minnesota Vikings after Kirk Cousins went down with a season-ending injury. The Vikings picked up Dobbs in a trade and left the Cardinals with Murray and Tune on the roster.
The Cardinals haven't stated whether Tune or Murray will start. But it's more likely that Tune gets the start, with Murray still working back from his injury.
Tune was drafted in the fifth round of this year's NFL Draft out of Houston. He had a terrific college career and hopes that translates into the NFL.
On the other hand, the Browns watched Deshaun Watson return to practice on Wednesday. It sounds like he could make his return to the field this weekend.
With so much uncertainty, what's the best bet?
Here are our picks, predictions, and odds for Sunday's game between the Arizona Cardinals vs. Cleveland Browns.
Cardinals vs. Browns Date, Time, and Where to Watch
- Date: November 5, 2023
- Game Time: 1:00 pm ET
- Where to Watch: CBS
Cardinals vs. Browns Odds
- Spread: Cardinals +8 (-110), Browns -8 (-110)
- Total Odds: O/U 37.5 (-110)
- Moneyline Odds: Cardinals (+285), Browns (-285)
Cardinals vs. Browns Injury Report
Cardinals
Questionable: DL Kevin Strong (Shoulder), RB Emari Demercado (Toe), WR Michael Wilson (Undisclosed)
Out: QB Kyler Murray (Knee), RB James Conner (Knee), TE Zach Ertz (Quadricep)
Browns
Questionable: OT Jedrick Wills Jr. (Foot), TE David Njoku (Ankle), RB Jerome Ford (Ankle), WR David Bell (Knee), CB Greg Newsome II (Groin)
Out: G Michael Dunn (Calf), G Drew Forbes (Undisclosed), DT Siaki Ika (Foot), LB Jordan Kunaszyk (Knee), WR Michael Woods II (Achilles)
Cardinals vs. Browns Prediction
We don't have any stats on Clayton Tune as a starting quarterback in the NFL. But we can estimate his production for Sunday's game.
It's more likely that Tune starts. But if Murray gets the start instead, I'd be a bit cautious, knowing it's his first game back from injury. Analysts weren't happy with Murray when he was healthy, so why would anyone be excited about him when he's not entirely 100% back and prepared?
In college, Tune was accurate. He was sensational. However, the NFL is a different beast. He played in three preseason games and only completed 57.6% of passes for 353 yards and one touchdown.
His most extended play on 59 attempts was a 26-yard completion. That's worrisome.
Add on the fact that Tune is facing a Browns pass rush that is almost unstoppable, and it doesn't look good for the Cardinals, especially without James Conner at running back.
Conversely, the Browns were encouraged by Watson's practice on Wednesday. Therefore, it sounds like he'll play. Watson has only thrown four touchdowns on 107 attempts this season. He's been limited with an injury all season long.
However, Watson still gives the Browns the best shot at winning. Cleveland must commit to the run against Arizona and play complementary football. It doesn't matter who the Cardinals play at quarterback. The Browns need to make sure that they don't turn the ball over and give the defense a lot of room to work with. That will win them the game.
The secondary has struggled, and the missed tackles for the Browns have been extreme. But the same can be said for the Cardinals. Having Watson back should be favorable for the Browns, despite what we've seen from him earlier this year.
Let's back the Browns at -8.
Arizona Cardinals vs. Cleveland Browns Pick
- Browns -8 -110 is currently the best odds. Click here to see which sportsbook has the best odds
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