Preview: Cleveland at Jacksonville - October 26, 2008

Something tells us that this game will be a turning point in the season for both teams.  Cleveland desperately needs a win to get into the playoff hunt.  A loss would drop them to 2-5 and effectively eliminate them from true playoff contention.  It would take a 7-2 record the rest of the way just to have a shot at the postseason.  Jacksonville sits at 3-3.  A win, in our minds, would solidify this team as a true playoff contender.  A loss makes the rest of the year an uphill battle; an winnable battle, but difficult nonetheless.

Cleveland is coming off a hard fought 11-14 loss at Washington.  The offense was unable to find a rhythm, managing only 236 yards of offense.  The offense’s performance proved that there is more to an NFL game than turnovers, despite what some may tell you.  The offense did not commit a single turnover.  Some good that did them.  The defense did put together another solid performance though.  That unit has improved from last year, and has to be considered at least an average NFL defense.  They have the ability to keep the offense in the game.

Jacksonville is coming off of a much-needed bye.  A number of players are healing up and are listed as day-to-day.  Jacksonville’s defense has not played to their standards thus far, but an extra week of rest and preparation should get the defense headed in the right direction.  A strong performance on Sunday should catapult the defense for the rest of the year and send them into the elite category where they belong.  Both defenses will show up on Sunday.

Free winner from Dark Horse Sports: Take Cleveland / Jacksonville under 42.