CINCINNATI — The Cleveland Browns, having clinched the No. 5 seed in the AFC, rested most of their key starters in a 31-14 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals at the regular season’s end. With their eyes firmly set on the postseason, the Browns (11-6) are gearing up for their first playoff game in three years, a wild-card round matchup against the AFC South champion Houston Texans on Saturday.
Cleveland’s coach Kevin Stefanski opted for a strategic approach, giving valuable rest to key players like quarterback Joe Flacco, star defensive end Myles Garrett, receiver Amari Cooper, and cornerback Denzel Ward. The decision reflects the team’s focus on their upcoming second postseason appearance in the last 21 seasons.
For the Bengals, who finished their season at 9-8, the game was more consequential. Jake Browning threw three touchdown passes, and Joe Mixon rushed for a season-high 111 yards and a score. Mixon’s performance elevated him to No. 2 on the Bengals’ all-time list for rushing touchdowns. Cincinnati’s season was marred by injuries, including a season-ending wrist injury to quarterback Joe Burrow.
The Browns’ backup quarterback Jeff Driskel, who was recently signed, struggled against Cincinnati’s defense until the fourth quarter, throwing two touchdown passes to David Bell. Despite the loss, Cleveland’s primary focus is on the playoffs, where they hope to make a significant impact.
The Texans will face a Browns team buoyed by the return of Joe Flacco, a former Super Bowl MVP. Despite major injuries, including to quarterback Deshaun Watson and star running back Nick Chubb, the Browns have showcased a top-ranked defense and a revitalized offense under Flacco’s leadership.
The Browns’ playoff aspirations hinge on maintaining their defensive prowess and capitalizing on Flacco’s deep passing ability. As they prepare to face the Texans, the team is poised for a potential deep playoff run.
