Austin Hooper, Cleveland Browns. (Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-USA TODAY Sports)
The Cleveland Browns look to avenge their worst game of the year by beating the Detroit Lions.
After getting thoroughly embarrassed by the New England Patriots a week ago, the Cleveland Browns have to pick up the pieces when the winless Detroit Lions come to town on Sunday.
While it was an unmitigated disaster last week vs. the Evil Empire, at least they didn’t tie the Lions. That was the fate of the Pittsburgh Steelers without Ben Roethlisberger under center last week. Though the Lions still have not won a game, they are no longer going 0-17. Cleveland better be ready to play on Sunday to avoid losing an unthinkable game to the Lions to stumble to 5-6.
Here are five bold predictions for when the Browns host the face on Sunday afternoon in Week 11.
Cleveland Browns: 5 bold predictions for Week 11 game vs. Detroit Lions
5. Austin Hooper will have the first touchdown catch on either side in this one
Cleveland will strike first offensively in this rock fight of a ballgame between the Browns and the Lions. Whatever you think the point total will be in this game, take the under, please. Though points will be at a premium on Sunday afternoon in Cleveland, Austin Hooper will score the first touchdown of the game for either side. This will be the first of three Browns touchdowns scored.
On a third-and-goal, Hooper will catch a well-thrown pass at the corner of the end zone for six points. It will cap off potentially the best and most complete drive of the game for Cleveland. From there, it will be an uphill battle for the Browns offensively, but this Hooper trip to pay dirt will carry its weight throughout the game. It will be a reason why the Browns will be playing from ahead.
Overall, Hooper may only have three or four catches on the afternoon, but none will be bigger than this first touchdown of the game. It may not be from more than 10 yards out, but it is the type of play that winning teams need when they are up against it. Cleveland will have to win this one with defense, but Hooper’s touchdown grab will be a reason the Lions could suffer yet another loss.
Look for Hooper to have four catches for 35 yards and a touchdown vs. the Lions defense Sunday.