So it’s that time again. The best time of the year...football season. With the NCAA starting up this past weekend, and the NFL kicking off 2008 on Thursday, anticipation has not been higher in Cleveland since the late 1980s. It is a season full of expectations for the Browns, but they do have a daunting task ahead of them.
The have one of the league’s toughest schedules, as they must face the potent AFC South and NFC East. Both divisions produced three playoff teams in 2007. They also must face their nemesis, the hated Pittsburgh Steelers, on the shores of Lake Erie in primetime on Week Two and again in Week 17 in Pittsburgh.
This following a lackluster preseason where they looked disjointed and unorganized, and the first teams rarely played together as a complete unit. Injuries, although minor, managed to disrupt any sort of flow as Derek Anderson, Braylon Edwards, and Jamal Lewis all missed significant time in camp.
The defense has looked just like last year’s version, giving away rushing yards like they were candy, failing to get any sort of pass rush, and were not able to generate turnovers. Even special-teams ace Josh Cribbs has come down with the dreaded “high-ankle sprain,” and his status for the start of the season remains in doubt.
With all that said, how will the 2008 season play out? Here’s how I see it going.
Week One Dallas
The Cowboys, not the Steelers, were the Browns' chief rivals prior to the merger in 1970, so it’s only fitting they open up the campaign in 2008 with both teams having high expectations.
I think the game will be closer than many will think, but I see the Cowboys taking advantage of the Browns’ sluggish preseason and weak secondary for a Dallas win.
LOSS
Week Two Pittsburgh
This is where the season hinges. Week Two versus the "Appalachian Inbred." At night. On National TV. The Browns have narrowed the talent gap with the Steelers, but the mental hurdle remains. Can they believe they can beat the Steelers and finally make a statement? I think they can, but I don’t know...
2 comments Last one added 10 months ago — Leave a Comment
Dustin Haley 10 months ago
Jeff, as always a great evaluation. I always enjoy reading your articles on the Brownies.
I'm with you on the away games, for the most part. Except maybe Philly, when was the last time we seen a healthy McNabb in week 15? ;)
But with our 4 toughest games at home, I would expect we get a win against one (Dallas, Indy, NYG, Pittsburgh), but I'm a bit optimistic.
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David Wiley 10 months ago
Pretty good analysis. My take? They beat Phili and Indianapolis. They lose to Buffalo and Houston back to back, and its a back breaker for the season. Beating Baltimore twice would be great, but I don't think they will pull it off, so I'd say 8-8 or 7-9. Here's hoping your picks are better than mine.
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