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Friday’s preseason game between the Browns (-1, 37.5) and Jaguars will double as a historic debut for QB Deshaun Watson, who is slated to make his first appearance in a Cleveland uniform after signing for the most guaranteed money ($230 million) in NFL history this summer.
Watson, playing while the NFL appeals his six-game suspension for violating its personal-conduct policy, led the league in passing yards in 2020. Even if he plays just a series or two, it’ll be a boon against a Jaguars defense that got cooked in the first half of last week’s preseason debut.
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The Jaguars will benefit from Trevor Lawrence and C.J. Beathard playing on Friday, but they’ll still suffer through a second half behind either Jake Luton or Kyle Sloter.
Jacoby Brissett throws a pass at Browns practice. Getty ImagesBetting on the NFL?
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Jacksonville spent a ton of money this offseason, but this roster still doesn’t match the depth of Cleveland’s, which is built for a title even with uncertainty at quarterback. The Browns can also lean on Jacoby Brissett, a longtime veteran who is auditioning for a starting job for however long Watson is sidelined this season.
Cleveland enters this game with a little extra motivation after a dramatic summer. The Browns are also the deeper team, so I’m happy to lay the short price here on the road favorite.
Browns vs. Jaguars pick
Browns -1.5 (-110) — FanDuel
