On the micro and macro levels, their fates have been decided.

But considering how far Ohio's NFL teams have fallen this season -- particularly their offenses -- they could benefit from even a little positive reinforcement before they head home for the winter.

"If we could win a game, it would mean something," Browns coach Romeo Crennel said.

"On Monday night, a ball goes through our hands that would have been a touchdown. It would have been a big lift and a confidence booster for the offense. Any touchdown we could get offensively is going to help us in the immediate game and then going into the offseason."

Bengals players have echoed that sentiment. They enjoyed a rare run of success early in the game last Sunday, then were frustrated by their inability to sustain it. Competence and confidence have been fleeting.

"The defense has definitely been solid all year. Offensively, we feel like we haven't held up our end of the bargain on this thing," guard Bobbie Williams said. "For us to end the year on a consecutive-win note would be huge -- and not just a win, but to do something of significance in the run game, finish it off with no sacks in the pass game, and let the guys play ball like we can."

Regardless of how they fare today and next week, the Bengals likely will experience some turnover in the offseason. For starters, signs point to quarterback Carson Palmer being healthy for offseason practices, which will be a significant upgrade. The offensive line almost certainly will be addressed, either in the draft or Free Agency. Receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh, tackle Stacy Andrews and running back Cedric Benson are eligible for Free Agency.

The Cleveland offense might not experience as many personnel changes, but it has some issues to settle, as well. Tight end Kellen Winslow and receiver Braylon Edwards have expressed frustration with management and fans, respectively.

Then there are quarterbacks Derek Anderson and Brady Quinn.

Anderson is signed for two more years, but he was benched at midseason in favor of Quinn, who is signed for three more years. Each is currently injured and thus unable to stake a claim to the job.

In their absence, the Browns have had a chance to experiment with kick returner Josh Cribbs in a variety of roles, including quarterback. Perhaps they will find a spark this week or next that can carry into next season.

"Whatever position they need me to play, I feel like I'm athletic enough to be versatile," Cribbs said. "Whatever is needed, I feel like I will be there. ... I'm always up for the task."

Edwards is coming off one of his best games of the season and has a chance to regain some of the luster that was lost. Ditto for Bengals receiver Chad Ocho Cinco, Browns running back Jamal Lewis, Bengals tight end Ben Utecht, Browns tackle Joe Thomas and others.

"Reality is staring us right in the face," Williams said. "We're looking for a little redemption."

spriestle@dispatch.com