Last Two Heisman Trophy Winners Meet in Arizona

The Cleveland Browns (6-7) had higher hopes heading into this season but can finally reach the .500 mark again with a win over the Arizona Cardinals (3-9-1) as road favorites on Sunday. Arizona’s Kyler Murray and Cleveland’s Baker Mayfield, the last two Heisman Trophy Sportsbooks and the last two top picks in the NFL draft, will be on display as the former Oklahoma quarterbacks duke it out in the desert.

Sportsbook Odds Analysis

The point spread has not moved yet in early wagering action, but the total is on the rise, up to 48 at most sportsbooks. Mayfield and wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. are both dealing with injuries for the Browns, so keep an eye on their status as kickoff get closer.

Cleveland News & Notes

Cleveland is still alive in the AFC playoff race, making this a must-win situation. Whether a strong finish will be enough to save the job of head coach Freddie Kitchens at the end of the season remains to be seen, but he will continue to ride Mayfield and Beckham down the stretch regardless of their health.

While they have all been in the spotlight throughout the year, running back Nick Chubb should be getting more attention and appreciation for his efforts as the league’s leading rusher with 1,281 yards and seven touchdowns. Chubb is averaging 5.1 yards per carry for the Browns, who would not be nearly as competitive without him. The combination of Chubb and Kareem Hunt in the backfield has kept them relevant.

Arizona News & Notes

Murray continues to be a candidate for NFL Rookie of the Year honors despite average numbers for a poor team. But he remains in the race and can make a statement down the stretch with some good performances in the last three games, starting with a win here vs Cleveland.

Arizona is riding a six-game losing streak straight up but has gone 2-2-1 against the spread in the last five and had opportunities to earn a victory in a 23-17 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers as a 2.5-point home underdog last week.

Murray threw three interceptions against the Steelers, though the Browns defense will not put the same kind of pressure on him. In what could be a high-scoring affair, he will have a chance to outduel Mayfield.

Betting Pick: OVER 47.5

Before being held in check by Pittsburgh and the Los Angeles Rams the last two weeks, Arizona had scored 25 or more points in three straight games, with the OVER cashing each time. Watch for Murray and Mayfield to go toe to toe in a shootout that easily flies above the total.