Eagles vs. Browns Preseason Betting: Predictions, Odds and Tips for Aug. 18

The Cleveland Browns and Philadelphia Eagles faced off all week in practice, which means their preseason game early Friday morning could be lacking most of the big names on both sides.

Coaches like getting the work against another team, and the controlled environment of practice helps limit injuries. We already know Deshaun Watson will not play and Philadelphia will likely follow suit by holding out Jalen Hurts.

The oddsmakers at Bet365 have instituted the Eagles as the 3.5-point home favourites in this matchup with 5/9 moneyline odds. The underdog Browns have 8/5 odds to pull the upset. The scoring total is listed at 37.5 points.

LAST TIME OUT

The Browns fell to the Commanders, 14-12, in their second preseason game of the year after also playing in the Hall of Fame Game against the Jets. Deshaun Watson played sparingly and that might be it for him this preseason.

Washington put veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett and youngster Sam Howell in the game for significant stretches, so it wasn’t a surprise to see the Commanders take an early lead and claim the win.

Browns rookie quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson was quite impressive in that matchup, completing 9-of-10 passes for 102 yards and a touchdown. He should get significant work against the Eagles.

Philadelphia lost to the Ravens by a point in its preseason opener. Jalen Hurts, A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith and other stars did not play and it stands to reason the Eagles will take the same tact in this one.

Rookie Jalen Carter turned heads with his performance last time out and the young Philly defensive linemen could get some playing time again here, which could impact the game.

PREDICTION

Running backs Rashaad Penny and D’Andre Swift are not atop the depth chart as expected, which means they could get plenty of run in this game for the Eagles. Veteran backup quarterback Marcus Mariota could also play a lot, and that type of experience means the Philly offense should be able to move the ball.

If Thompson-Robinson plays well again it will be very encouraging, but he may experience some growing pains in this matchup.

The Eagles are the rightful home favourites, and look for their veteran players on offence to excel on the way to a preseason victory over the Browns. The ‘over’ is the pick as Philly should be able to put up some points early on.

Prediction: Eagles 23, Browns 17

HOW TO WATCH

The Cleveland Browns will travel to face the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on Friday, August 18th at 12:30 p.m. BST.