Vikings vs Browns
1. New QB under center for Cleveland
- The Browns have decided to start rookie Dillon Gabriel, benching Joe Flacco.
- Gabriel’s first NFL start will come in a hostile environment in London, against a complex Vikings defense.
- That said, it’s a high-risk, high-reward call — if Gabriel plays with poise and quick decision-making, it could spark Cleveland’s stagnant offense. But mistakes are likely.
2. Minnesota’s offensive line is decimated
- The Vikings are missing multiple offensive-line starters, including guard Donovan Jackson, tackle Brian O’Neill, and center Ryan Kelly, as well as others who are questionable.
- That’s a bad matchup, considering Cleveland’s pass rush, led by Myles Garrett, remains a strength.
- The burden will be on backup linemen, quick-release passing, schemed protections, and the running game (if it can get going) to take pressure off Carson Wentz.
3. Vikings defense vs. Cleveland’s limited offense
The Browns’ run game (Quinshon Judkins) could get a bigger role, especially to take pressure off the rookie QB.
Minnesota’s defense, under Brian Flores, is known for creative pressure packages and disguising coverages.
Cleveland’s offense has had significant struggles — they haven’t scored more than 17 in a game this season, and their turnover issues under Flacco were glaring.
The Vikings’ secondary is led by Isaiah Rodgers, who’s been making splash plays early in 2025. NFL.com
Game environment & scoring expectation
- This is being billed as a low-scoring affair — the over/under has been floated in the mid-30s.
- Both offenses have durability/consistency issues, and the lines favor defensive control.
- Weather and crowd dynamics in London could influence game flow, but the bigger story is play execution and limiting mistakes.
🔮 Prediction
Given the mismatch in quarterback experience, Minnesota’s defensive strength, and Cleveland’s offensive uncertainty, I lean towards the Vikings in a tight, low-scoring game.