The AFC North showdown on Sunday features the struggling Cleveland Browns facing the high-flying Baltimore Ravens. With a record of 1-6, the Browns hope for a spark as Jameis Winston steps in for the injured Deshaun Watson. Meanwhile, the Ravens, boasting a 5-2 record, are riding a five-game winning streak, led by MVP candidate Lamar Jackson.

Both teams have faced challenges; the Ravens' defense has been shaky, allowing over 20 points in most games, while the Browns' offense has struggled significantly. Betting trends favor Baltimore, with the Ravens having a strong record against the spread and on the road.

The Baltimore Ravens are facing potential challenges ahead of their game against the Cleveland Browns, with key players Zay Flowers and Marlon Humphrey missing practice due to injuries. Flowers, the leading receiver, and Humphrey, the team's interception leader, were both hurt in the previous game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Additionally, the Ravens have other injury concerns, including rookie running back Rasheen Ali and cornerback T.J. Tampa. Defensive tackle Travis Jones is also dealing with an ankle injury, while several other players have shown improvement in practice.

On the Browns' side, center Ethan Pocic and defensive lineman Quinton Jefferson returned to practice, though Pocic was limited. Other key players such as running back Jerome Ford and left tackle Jedrick Wills continued to miss practice due to injuries.

The Cleveland Browns will be without leading rusher Jerome Ford due to a hamstring injury, but running back Nick Chubb is set to make his season debut against the Cincinnati Bengals. After recovering from a severe left knee injury that required two surgeries, Chubb has been practicing and is expected to play, as confirmed by coach Kevin Stefanski.

Stefanski noted a plan is in place to manage Chubb's workload, ensuring he remains healthy for the long term. Chubb expressed readiness to contribute to his team as he returns to the field after more than a year. Additionally, Nyheim Hines is also unlikely to play due to his own recovery from a knee injury, while the team has ruled out safety Ronnie Hickman.

Cleveland is optimistic about its offensive capabilities this Sunday as head coach Kevin Stefanski indicated that running back Nick Chubb is expected to play against the Bengals despite being listed as questionable.

Chubb, who is recovering from a significant knee injury sustained last season, had an impressive performance in 2022 with 1,525 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns. The team is also monitoring other injuries, including those of Nyheim Hines, Ethan Pocic, Jordan Hicks, and Juan Thornhill.

Nick Chubb's much-anticipated return to the Cleveland Browns is set for Sunday against the Cincinnati Bengals, with head coach Kevin Stefanski expressing optimism about his participation. Chubb, who has been recovering from a serious knee injury, has been on the Physically Unable to Perform List for the first six weeks of the season.

As Chubb prepares for his emotional comeback at Huntington Bank Field, the Browns are also monitoring the status of center Ethan Pocic and other players listed as questionable. The team's roster adjustments will be crucial as they aim for a strong performance this weekend.