AFC North Predictions: Browns vs. Steelers

Cleveland Browns (10-6)
The team definitely improved its roster in the off-season. A brutal schedule should give the Browns about the same record as last year; but, now it is good enough for the division championship, Cleveland's first since 1989. The Browns average 25.8 points per game (#6 in the NFL) and allow 21.5 points (#11) against a schedule featuring eight games against 2007 playoff teams.
Absolute Record: 12-4
Most Significant Newcomer: Corey Williams, DL - The former Packer will likely lineup at end with newly acquired Shaun Rogers in the middle. Williams has an all-around game that is adept at stuffing the run and sacking the quarterback. He's a perfect 3-4 end. The season simulation gives Williams 41 total tackles and eight sacks.
Biggest Strength: Passing Game - Left tackle Joe Thomas helps to keep Derek Anderson upright long enough to hit play-making targets like Braylon Edwards, Kellen Winslow and Donte' Stallworth.
Most Exploitable Weakness: Depth - All three of those playmakers have histories with injuries (and attitude) and the cupboard is pretty bare behind them, so the passing game could quickly become a weakness if one of them goes down. The same could be said for just about every position on the team, especially at running back where an aging Jamal Lewis appears to be the only NFL-caliber back on the roster.
Possible Fantasy Sleeper: Eric Wright, CB - It's rare to go defensive player, but the offense is so star-driven that there are no sleepers there. Wright is a second-year corner out of UNLV who made 76 tackles last season. For 2008, we put him at 86 tackles and three interceptions.
Closest Game: @ Philadelphia (Week 15) - Hosting Pittsburgh in Week 2 and at Philly in December are two big swing games for this Browns team. If Cleveland is intent on contending this year and for years to come, it will need to play its best in games like these.
Fantasy Notables (fantasy rank at position in parentheses): Derek Anderson (5) 3,853 yards, 27 TDs, 15 INTs; Jamal Lewis (11) 1,488 total yards, 14 TDs; Braylon Edwards (2) 95 receptions, 1,400 yards, 9 TDs; Donte' Stallworth (50) 42 receptions, 640 yards, 5 TDs; Kellen Winslow II (2) 87 receptions, 1,035 yards, 7 TDs; Phil Dawson (19) 45/45 XPs, 25/30 FGs
Projected 2008 Results:

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