The Battle of Ohio has lost some of it’s luster this season as both the Bengals and Browns are both 0-3 on the season.  Still, this is a crucial game for both teams as they need to turn things around soon before the season is lost.  If the Browns’ coaches have been watching the game film of the Bengals’ defense (questionable) then they will no doubt want to run the football in this game.  The Bengals are allowing a stunning 174.3 yards rushing per game this season and Jamal Lewis has torched them many times in his career.  The Bengals only have 1 sack this season so Derek Anderson will likely have a lot of time to throw the football tomorrow so he has no excuses left.  If he starts this game poorly he will get yanked for 2nd year QB Brady Quinn.  The Browns should focus the passing game around TE Kellen Winslow seeing how Braylon Edwards hands appear to be made of concrete this season.

The Bengals will probably come out firing the football around the field as long as Carson Palmer’s elbow holds up.  The Browns don’t have much of a pass rush and they are starting two second year CBs who are on a learning curve.  Chad Johnson is barking that he’s feeling better and is ready to breakout but I’ll believe it when I see it.  T.J. Houshmandzadeh is back based on his great game of last week and he will likely give the Browns’ secondary fits tomorrow.  The Bengals feel that Chris Perry could have a big game against a Browns’ defense that is allowing 145.0 yards rushing and 4.1 yards per carry this season.

PREDICTION:  CINCINNATI BENGALS 31, CLEVELAND BROWNS 20