While the Browns are right in the argument for another No.1 Draft pick in 2018, their opponents are ticking along quite nicely at 5-2 on top of the NFC North after three straight victories.
Their chance of reclaiming the division has increased significantly after Green Bay quarterback Aaron Rodgers suffered a broken collarbone playing against them a couple of weeks ago and head coach Mike Zimmer has stressed the importance of not taking Sunday's rival lightly despite the obvious current gulf in class.
Minnesota have had issues of their own at quarterback with starter Sam Bradford battling an ongoing knee issue but the experienced Case Keenum has done very well in relief to keep things ticking over.
A healthy defense is among the very best in the league and the opportunity to tee-off on Kizer will make it very hard to find his feet as the defensive-minded Zimmer is one of the best around when it comes to confusing quarterbacks with multiple looks and heavily disguised coverages.
The International Series has delivered some very lopsided games this season with two shutouts and one losing side managing just seven points.
This shapes up like a fixture which could turn ugly if the Vikings get on top quickly and they are worth backing to cover quite a hefty start.
Prediction: Minnesota 24-10 Cleveland
2pts Minnesota (-9.5) to beat Cleveland at 10/11
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Posted at 1730 BST on 27/10/17.