Cleveland Browns: 5 most important games in 2016

Jan 3, 2016; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Sam Bradford (7) calls a play at the line against the New York Giants during the fourth quarter at MetLife Stadium. The Eagles won 35-30. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 3, 2016; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Sam Bradford (7) calls a play at the line against the New York Giants during the fourth quarter at MetLife Stadium. The Eagles won 35-30. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
2 of 6
Next
Jan 3, 2016; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Sam Bradford (7) calls a play at the line against the New York Giants during the fourth quarter at MetLife Stadium. The Eagles won 35-30. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 3, 2016; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Sam Bradford (7) calls a play at the line against the New York Giants during the fourth quarter at MetLife Stadium. The Eagles won 35-30. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

The Browns open up the 2016 season on the road against the Philadelphia Eagles. The two teams played each other in Week 1 in 2012, which featured Brandon Weeden and Trent Richardson making their respective debuts.  The Browns lost that game 17-16 en route to a 5-11 record.

The meeting this season may feature a new starting quarterback for the Browns, whether that be Robert Griffin III, Jared Goff or even Carson Wentz, although one of the two rookies should be gone by the time the Browns’ second overall pick comes.

In a season where there are zero expectations, the opening game provides the Browns a chance to show they aren’t the worst team in the NFL, as most preseason projections will say.

This game also allows the starting quarterback to prove why he won the job. There is still the possibility Josh McCown could be that starter, although Griffin seems to be the favorite to open the season, as long as he stays healthy.

If Griffin starts he will be able to show that his career still has promise and that the Browns made a great move in signing him. It will also give fans a reason to cheer for him when he plays his first game in Cleveland.

Next: Week 2: Baltimore Ravens