Los Angeles Times

Sam Farmer's NFL wild-card playoff picks

Baker Mayfield of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers reacts after throwing a touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field on Sunday, Dec. 17, 2023, in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

The Los Angeles Times' NFL writer, Sam Farmer, examines this week's matchups. Lines according to FanDuel Sportsbook (O/U = over/under). Last week's record 9-7 (.563); regular season 162-110 (.596). Using point spreads with the scores Farmer predicted, the record against the spread last week would have been 8-8 (.500); regular season 130-135-7 (.491). TV channels are for Los Angeles area. All times Pacific.

No. 5 Cleveland (11-6) at No. 4 Houston (10-7)

— When: Saturday, 1:30 p.m., NBC, Peacock. Line: Browns by 2 1/2.

— How the Browns can win: Get some chunk plays from quarterback Joe Flacco, who has thrown for 300 yards in a club-record four consecutive games. Protect the ball. The Browns have given it up an NFL-high 37 times. Win the battle

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