Detroit Lions vs Cleveland Browns: Preview, Kick-off Time & Team Updates
The Detroit Lions line up against their second straight AFC North opponent as they host the Cleveland Browns in Week 4.
Fresh off a statement-making victory on Monday Night Football, Detroit returns to Ford Field riding the momentum of their primetime triumph over Baltimore. Now 2-1, the Lions look nothing like the franchise of old — with returning reinforcements and growing depth making them a genuine Super Bowl contender.
Cleveland Browns: Team News
Quarterback Joe Flacco has been inconsistent as Cleveland’s starter, recording 631 yards with two touchdowns against four interceptions. While he’s shown flashes of quality, his aggressive approach has often backfired. Rookie wideout Fannin has quickly emerged as his top target, leading the team with 15 catches for 136 yards, while Jerry Jeudy provides reliable support with 134 yards.
On the ground, rookie Quinshon Judkins has revitalized the backfield since Week 2, rushing for 155 yards and a score. But Cleveland’s true strength lies on defense. Myles Garrett already has four sacks, anchoring a pass rush ranked No. 1 by PFF with an elite 90.2 grade.
Injuries remain a concern, with Deshaun Watson, Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, and Martin Emerson Jr. sidelined. The status of linemen Jack Conklin (elbow) and Joel Bitonio (back) will be pivotal for their offensive stability.
The Browns head into this clash after grinding out a 13-10 win over Green Bay in a defensive slugfest, proving they can battle with anyone if overlooked.
Detroit Lions: Team News
Detroit made a few roster adjustments midweek. Tight end Ross Dwelley was promoted to the 53-man squad, while Quinton Jefferson joined the practice group. The team also placed Marcus Davenport (chest) on injured reserve.
On the injury front, linebacker Derrick Barnes picked up a knee issue, while several starters — including Taylor Decker, Al-Quadin Muhammad, Daniel Thomas, and Sione Vaki — missed practice. The good news: All-Pro safety Kerby Joseph is fully fit, and D.J. Reed has returned without restrictions.
Statistically, Detroit’s offense has been explosive, averaging 34.3 points per game (2nd in NFL). Jared Goff has been razor-sharp, completing 78% of his passes for 761 yards, while David Montgomery leads the rushing attack with 233 yards. Amon-Ra St. Brown has been unstoppable, racking up 237 receiving yards and four touchdowns already.
Defensively, however, the Lions are allowing 26 points per contest, ranking 23rd in the league — a potential vulnerability against Cleveland’s physical style.
Kick-off Time & How to Watch
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Match: Detroit Lions vs Cleveland Browns
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Date: Sunday, September 28, 2025
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Time: 1:00 PM ET (6:00 PM BST)
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Venue: Ford Field, Detroit, Michigan
Broadcast (USA): FOX
Streaming (USA): Fubo (free trial available)
Worldwide: NFL Game Pass via DAZN, offering full coverage including NFL RedZone, NFL Network, and playoffs.
Fantasy Football Outlook
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Jared Goff (DET, QB) – Projected 18.4 pts. Not flashy, but steady and efficient. A safe streaming option.
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David Montgomery (DET, RB) – Coming off a 151-yard, 2-TD breakout. Projected 8.8 pts but with high upside.
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Jahmyr Gibbs (DET, RB) – Dynamic complement to Montgomery. Projected 13.6 pts.
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Joe Flacco (CLE, QB) – Just 2 TDs with 4 INTs so far. Not a recommended play this week.
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Quinshon Judkins (CLE, RB) – Emerging as Cleveland’s feature back. Coming off 16.5 pts in Week 3 and expected to stay heavily involved.
Prediction
Cleveland’s defense can keep this competitive, but Detroit’s balanced attack and home-field advantage should prove decisive. Expect Amon-Ra St. Brown to shine, Goff to stay efficient, and Detroit’s defense to force turnovers.
Prediction: Lions 27, Browns 17
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