Eagles vs. Browns Preseason Betting: Predictions, Odds and Picks for Aug. 17

The Cleveland Browns and Philadelphia Eagles faced off all week in practice, which means their preseason game on Thursday 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 Cleveland quarterback Deshaun Watson will not play and Philadelphia will likely follow suit by holding out star QB Jalen Hurts.

The oddsmakers at BetMGM have instituted the Eagles as the 3.5-point home favorites in this matchup with -170 moneyline odds. The Browns have +145 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 make an impact in this one.

PREDICTION

Running backs Rashaad Penny and D’Andre Swift are not atop the Eagles depth chart as expected, which means they could get plenty of run in this game. Veteran 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 favorites, and look for their veteran players on offense 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 on Thursday, August 17th at 7:30 p.m. ET. The game can be seen on NFL Network.