49ers -8.5 vs. Browns Pick with Analysis
10/30/11
The Cleveland Browns (3-3) visit the suddenly hot San Francisco 49ers (5-1). San Francisco comes off of a bye week in which they were able to enjoy their victory over the previously unbeaten Detroit Lions. The Cleveland Browns have faced another disappointing season where they have failed to generate any excitement on either the offensive or defensive side of the ball. They come off a home win against Seattle 6-3.
Rookie Head coach Jim Harbaugh has brought some much needed excitement and attitude to a oNCe proud 49er orGAnization. Alex Smith has benefited the most from Harbough’s arrival because he has put Smith in positions to make plays and limited situations where he makes mistakes. Alex Smith has had the best year of his career and the defense has followed suit by playing solidly as well. The 49ers have a strong shot at winning their division and with a few upsets could contend for home field advantage throughout the NFC playoffs. This team is young and will continue to GAin confideNCe if they continue to win.
The Cleveland Browns have been a disappointment this year; they have a 500 record but have not been very excited to watch. They have failed to generate any offense out of Colt McCoy or Payton Hillis. The defense is coming off of a strong performance where they only allowed 3 points to the Seattle Seahawks. General Manager Mike Holmgren may need to come out of the front office and head to the sidelines to generate any excitement around this Cleveland team and put them back on track. Cleveland doesn’t have a lot to play for in this spot as a playoff spot seems highly unlikely in the ultra completive AFC.
San Francisco has everything to play for down the stretch as their offense and defense appears to be hitting their stride. I don’t feel this is a super bowl caliber team, but I do feel they could be a tough out in the playoffs the way they have been playing at home. With a week of rest I expect the 49ers to be well rested and play inspired football as they blow Cleveland out 38-10 and cover the 8.5 point spread.