The coming week of NFL betting action kicks off with a bang. Week 9’s opener this week comes Thursday as the Cleveland Browns (2-6) travel to Cincinnati (7-0). The Bengals have a commanding 3.5 game lead over Pittsburgh after beating them in Week 8. The Browns are coming off a loss to the Arizona Cardinals. Here is a look at some of the key players that will likely make the difference in this matchup.
Johnny Manziel (Cleveland Browns, QB)
Heisman winner and former Texas A&M QB Johnny Manziel has been named the starter for the Cleveland Browns in Thursday’s game against the Cincinnati Bengals. Josh McCown suffered a painful rib injury during Sunday’s game against the Arizona Cardinals, a situation that opened the door for Manziel to start his second game of the season and the fourth of his professional career. In the three games he has started this season, “Johnny Football” has completed 28 of 50 passes for 393 yards, with three touchdowns and one interception. “On the short week, we realized that Josh just wasn’t going to be able to get to the point where he could go. Johnny has worked hard to prepare himself. He is excited about his opportunity and we are all looking forward to the challenge.” Browns coach Mike Pettine said in a statement.
Johnny Manziel starting for Browns vs Bengals on Thursday night – https://t.co/Yoy6mrvsGq pic.twitter.com/afILqbapsr
— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) November 4, 2015