The battle for Ohio is a popular phrase in presidential elections. It also applies when the Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals. And now it’s a tussle between actual contenders that catches the Thursday night spotlight this week.

The Browns (5-3) have already won more games this season than they did in 2013. The Bengals (5-2-1) are the leaders in the AFC North division, in which all four teams (the Browns included) show winning records.

The Browns have not won a divisional road game since they beat the Bengals 20-12 on Sept. 28, 2008, a span of 17 games. They’ve lost five in a row in Cincinnati, where the Bengals are 13-0-1 in their last 14. The Browns, though, have won their last three games.

GAMES WE’RE WATCHING ON SUNDAY

San Francisco 49ers (4-4) at New Orleans Saints (4-4): No one expected this midseason meeting to be one of two teams underperforming their talent and at .500. The Saints, though, have won two in a row and are in first place in the sagging NFC South. The 49ers have lost their last two and have already matched their loss total of last season. The 49ers struggle to run the ball and have given up 14 sacks in those consecutive defeats.

Kansas City Chiefs (5-3) at Buffalo Bills (5-3): The Chiefs have won five of six. The Bills return from their bye week having won three of four since Kyle Orton took over at quarterback.

Miami Dolphins (5-3) at Detroit Lions (6-2): The Dolphins suddenly look like a contender after their 37-0 beating of the San Diego Chargers, their first shutout in nearly eight years. The defense ranks third in the NFL. The Lions expect running back Reggie Bush (a former Dolphin) and other-worldly receiver Calvin Johnson back from injuries after a bye. The Lions defense ranks No. 1 in the NFL.

Today’s question

Which games will you be watching, and why?

Answers in the comment box, please.
 
 
Post By: Larry Weisman, a longtime sportswriter for USA TODAY, blogs for Twistity.com. Follow him on Twitter @MrLarryWeisman .