Cleveland Browns-Trent Richardson
Running back Trent Richardson was kept out of Cleveland's first preseason game last week, but should play two series on Thursday night against the Detroit Lions. Reuters

The AFC North's battle for Ohio pits the Cleveland Browns against the Cincinnati Bengals Sunday afternoon at Paul Brown Stadium.

The game begins at 1pm eastern time and will be shown by CBS, or watch a live stream online by purchasing NFL Sunday Ticket Max.

Cleveland's secondary almost neutralized Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick, picking him off four times, but gave up a touchdown in the closing minutes and lost 17-16.

The Browns offense was the team's downfall as their heralded rookies struggled in their debuts. Cleveland rookie quarterback Brandon Weeden threw four interceptions and ended his debut with a 5.1 passer rating and 118 yards in the air.

Running back Trent Richardson managed 39 yards on the ground on 19 carries, in his first game since returning after arthroscopic knee surgery during the offseason.

Cleveland's sole touchdown came from a 27-yard interception return by D'Qwell Jackson in the fourth quarter.

Cincinnati hopes to rebound from a 44-13 blowout against the Baltimore Ravens in Week 1. Running back Ben Jarvis Green-Ellis rushed for 91 yards and the Bengals only touchdown, while second-year quarterback Andy Dalton failed to move the chains with 221 yards passing and a passer rating of 65.3.

Baltimore capped a 17-point third quarter with a 34-yard interception return by veteran safety Ed Reed.

The Bengals defense allowed four total touchdowns, including five passing plays for 20-plus yards.

Cincinnati's defense may continue to struggle against Cleveland as cornerback Jason Allen and defensive end Carlos Dunlap are currently listed as questionable for Sunday.

Cleveland cornerback Sheldon Brown, offensive tackle Joe Thomas, wide receiver Josh Gordon, and linebacker Scott Fujita are listed as probable. Tight end Benjamin Watson's status is questionable.

Betting Odds: Cincinnati is favored by 7 points.

Prediction: Cleveland showed they are capable of taking on a talented offense like the Eagles, and could take advantage of a reeling Bengals offense. Dalton must now face another difficult secondary for a second straight week, and has to avoid making a late interception.

Predicted Score: Cleveland 20, Cincinnati 14

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