Cleveland Browns: Week 7 predictions against the Tennessee Titans

4. Cornerback Jason McCourty misses Sunday’s game and the Browns secondary is torched as a result.

In a disastrous turn of events, it is looking exceedingly clear that McCourty will not be able to play on Sunday afternoon. The corner suffered an injury in Thursday’s practice and did not practice Friday. Going from healthy to limited to not practicing over three days is not a welcome sight.

The Browns secondary has struggled this year, but McCourty has been a bright spot. Pro Football Focus has the former Titan as the best-ranked cornerback with an elite grade. His absence would be detrimental to the defense. Either Briean Boddy-Calhoun or Michael Jordan would be forced into action.

The Titans do not have a prolific playmaker at receiver, but they have multiple formidable receiving options. Receivers Rishard Matthews and Eric Decker, as well as tight end Delanie Walker, are all solid pass catchers. The Browns are second-to-last in the NFL in passing touchdowns allowed this year. Without McCourty, it only increases the possibility one or more of the above weapons breaks out.

5. The Browns hang around, but in the end, fall short once again.

If Mariota was 100 percent healthy, this game would not be close. His limited mobility will be the only reason the Browns will be able to stick around. He struggled last week against the Colts until the second half, when he got things going. If Mariota cannot move around like he usually does, it could be more of the same.

For the Browns, Kizer should bounce back. Also, the defense should continue to keep the running game under control. However, the lack of playmakers and the poor secondary play will ultimately be the team’s downfall.

In the end, Cleveland still is not there yet. Even with a beat-up Tennessee team coming into town, the Browns do not have the talent to compete.

Next: Where are the first rounders after six weeks?

Prediction: 23-14 Titans