The Cleveland Browns will be one of the most scrutinized teams in the NFL in 2020. That comes from having several high-profile players, a brand new coaching staff and front office (again) and the weight of a lengthy postseason drought clashing with the bright promise of a talent-laden roster.
They’ll be tested by fire right away. Week 1. In Baltimore. Reigning MVP Lamar Jackson and the 14-2 Ravens from a year ago is trial by fire, and it’s easy to believe the NFL arranged that deliberately.
How that first game turns out definitely shapes the narrative for the next few weeks. A win in Baltimore would be a massive confidence-builder and grab national attention. But laying an egg against Joe Burrow and the Bengals the following week or the Redskins in Week 3 would kill any positive buzz.
On the flip side, if the team falls in Week 1 but rallies for strong, controlling wins against the teams that picked No. 1 and 2 in April, it’s a sign of professionalism and resiliency. Those were not qualities the 2019 Browns possessed, and it would be a welcome development.
It goes without saying that the national spotlight will be on Myles Garrett’s return to Heinz Field in Pittsburgh in Week 6. How will Garrett handle the infamous incident from last year? Will the Steelers attempt retribution? How do the Browns conduct themselves in front of what figures to be a volatile, hostile crowd?
Two late road games in New York in Weeks 15 and 16 could very well be the difference between playing for a playoff berth in the Week 17 rematch against the Steelers or licking wounds and wondering what happened to all the promise.
Then there’s that Steelers game at FirstEnergy in Week 17. If that game indeed means postseason or die, so many narratives will be written. Baker Mayfield. Kevin Stefanski. Perhaps Jimmy Haslam as an owner. They’ll all face judgment on the outcome.
We can’t wait. It’s going to be a fascinating season for the Browns.
