The Season…It’s Finally Here!

This is what we have all been waiting for, what this agonizingly long summer has finally come down to.  The return of the NFL is here, and there has never been so much promise, hope, and intrigue surrounding the Browns since their return to the league in 1999.  Today, they square off against the Dallas Cowboys, one of the premier teams in the NFC, and perhaps all of football (it’s alright, I will admit it).  Having said that, I know it is going to be a superb game on the lake today and I strongly believe that the Browns are going to pull out a win.

Call it blind optimism, or whatever you like.  The Browns certainly have some questions on defense, and the rash of injuries also brings some questions to the offense as well, but this is not the time for that.  The only thing I feel like recognizing is that football is finally back and every team is in the same situation.  The intensity will be there and the defense will step up to support the offense, which I feel will pick up where it left off – as one of the most explosive units in the league.

So, it’s time to sit back, relax, and watch the Browns make a march towards the playoffs.  It feels good to have a potential winner on our hands, and with the team’s strongest units remaining both the offensive and defensive lines, I feel that this is as good a time as any for Cleveland to start building a future of success – one that may even include a certain coveted trophy.  I’m not saying that it will happen this season, but the tools are in place.  But then again, it is the first game of the season and anything is possible…

Browns win, 28-24 – After the game, I’ll be back to provide some thoughts on what transpired, including either my joy at having picked a winner, or my apologies for picking a loser (something that The Landry Hat will never let me live down).  I’m sure he and I will be conversing plenty after this one is over.