* TV: CBS (Channel 10)

* Radio: WTVN-AM (610); WBWR-FM (105.7)

* Forecast: Snow and windy, high of 30

\ Story line

Two once-potent offenses will trade punts on a cold, gray day, with little more than pride on the line. Perhaps a job or two will be affected. It is difficult to imagine either team enjoying bragging rights in a season such as this, but that might matter to a few folks. "It's an important game to (Bengals owner Mike Brown), I know," coach Marvin Lewis said, "so that makes it an important game to me."

\ Key matchup

Browns WR Braylon Edwards vs. Bengals CB Leon Hall

Hall has quietly had a strong season: He is often matched against the opponent's best receiver, and he gets little help from the Bengals' meager pass rush. Edwards has endured very public struggles, from an early injury to his many dropped passes to his recent complaints about fan and media criticism.

\ Numbers and such

The Browns forced five turnovers in the teams' first meeting. It was Ryan Fitzpatrick's first start at quarterback for the Bengals, and he was responsible for four of the turnovers (three interceptions and a fumble). ... Browns running back Jamal Lewis has tortured the Bengals in the past, with nine career games of 100 yards or more. But he has become a supporting actor in the offense lately. He has been held to fewer than 70 yards in six of the team's past seven games. Coincidentally or not, the Browns are 1-6 in that span. ... Bengals safety Chinedum Ndukwe and tight end Ben Utecht are expected back in the lineup following foot injuries. ... Browns tackle Joe Thomas and defensive tackle Shaun Rogers were selected to the AFC Pro Bowl team.

\ Bengals win if ...

The offense can replicate its fast start from last week. A 14-point first quarter might be enough to win this game, without needing a goal-line stand in the second half.

\ Browns win if ...

The opportunistic defense forces a few more turnovers. The Browns are among the league leaders in turnover differential. It has been an undeniably bright spot in a dark season, and while it might not be a formula for sustained success, it should be enough to beat the hapless Bengals.

\ Prediction

Bengals 13, Browns 10 \

\ spriestle@dispatch.com