The Browns placed double-digit players on the reserve/COVID-19 list in the last two days, including Baker Mayfield, and coach Kevin Stefanski has tested positive, too. It’s not just the amount of players that stands out, but the quality of their contributions. I counted eight starters, including two of their best offensive linemen, two of their leading receivers and two of their starters in the secondary. The Raiders are in a free fall, the Browns should still apply pressure to Derek Carr, and I don’t think the change to Case Keenum at quarterback is a downgrade. It’s not like this should be a blowout.
Still, I was leaning toward the Raiders covering in this game when the line started at 5.5 before the COVID-19 news because the Browns’ offense is so sluggish. I’ll now take the Raiders to win outright, understanding no one knows anything.
