Table of Contents
Game Preview Cleveland Browns @ Buffalo Bills
Two playoff-contending AFC teams meet in a high-stakes Week 16 clash as the Cleveland Browns visit the Buffalo Bills on December 21. Both teams enter with postseason aspirations and strong defenses, setting the stage for a potentially low-scoring battle at Highmark Stadium.
Buffalo is looking to protect home field and stay alive in the AFC East race, while Cleveland is aiming to secure a wild card spot behind its dominant defense and evolving quarterback play. Bettors will find strong angles on both sides and totals for this matchup.
You can track line movement and injury updates at the NFL scores and odds page.
Odds and Key Information
- Spread: Bills -3
- Total: 41.5
- Moneyline: Browns +135, Bills -155
- Kickoff: 4:25 PM ET
- Venue: Highmark Stadium, Orchard Park, NY
Weather could be a factor, as December games in Buffalo often impact scoring and passing efficiency. For real-time totals and weather-adjusted movement, visit the NFL betting guide.
Cleveland Browns Outlook
The Cleveland Browns enter with one of the league’s best defenses, allowing fewer than 300 total yards per game. Myles Garrett leads a front four that consistently generates pressure, and Cleveland’s secondary has limited opponents to under 6.5 yards per pass attempt.
Offensively, the Browns continue to mix personnel packages to support backup quarterback Joe Flacco, who has stepped in with solid efficiency. Running backs Jerome Ford and Kareem Hunt split touches, helping the Browns stay balanced. Cleveland ranks top-5 in time of possession and third-down defense.
They’re 5-2 ATS over their last seven games, with under tickets cashing in four of those. Find their updated betting record in the NFL picks section.
Buffalo Bills Outlook
The Buffalo Bills come into this matchup with a 9-5 record, fighting for a playoff berth in a crowded AFC. Josh Allen continues to power the offense with both arm and legs, but his interception rate remains a concern. Stefon Diggs leads all receivers in targets, while tight end Dalton Kincaid has emerged as a reliable option underneath.
Buffalo’s defense has been inconsistent due to injuries but remains opportunistic. The Bills rank in the top 10 in takeaways and red zone stops. At home, they allow just 17.6 points per game.
The offense thrives in fast-paced situations, but weather and Cleveland’s defensive front may limit their downfield attack. Learn more about Buffalo’s postseason odds in the AFC playoff race blog.
Key Matchup Table
| Key Matchup | Edge |
|---|---|
| Defensive Line Disruption | Browns |
| QB Playmaking (Arm & Legs) | Bills |
| Turnover Margin | Browns |
| Red Zone Efficiency | Bills |
| Coaching In-Game Adjustments | Bills |
Betting Trends
The Cleveland Browns are 6-1 ATS in their last seven games as underdogs and have covered in four of their last five on the road. The under has hit in five of their last six road games.
The Buffalo Bills are 4-1 ATS in their last five home games but just 2-5 ATS against top-10 defenses. The total has gone under in seven of Buffalo’s last nine December games.
Find more relevant trends and matchup comparisons in our NFL Week 16 betting predictions and weekly preview archive.
Prediction
This game is likely to be dictated by field position, defensive stops, and who wins the turnover battle. The Browns’ pass rush can disrupt Allen’s rhythm, but Buffalo is dangerous at home when it starts fast. If Cleveland controls the clock and forces third-and-long, they’ll keep it close deep into the fourth quarter.
Expect conservative game plans from both coaching staffs. A field goal late could decide it, with the Browns presenting value as a live underdog.
Projected Score: Bills 20, Browns 19
Spread Pick: Browns +3
Total Lean: Under 41.5
Looking for more matchups like this? Visit the Sunday Night Football predictions blog for insights into primetime games and key totals.
Why You Need Expert Picks
A game like Browns vs Bills presents tight lines and sharp betting splits—perfect for expert-level insight. Get detailed side, total, and prop coverage from the NFL picks page, updated daily by professional handicappers.
For top-performing analysts and betting models, check the Handicappers Leaderboard. Want more angles on this week’s slate? Explore NFL underdogs, NFL MVP odds, and best NFL parlays to expand your betting edge.


