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Cleveland Browns: 5 keys to beating the Eagles

By Jonathan Goehring

Aug 26, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Robert Griffin III (10) runs with the ball against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 26, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Robert Griffin III (10) runs with the ball against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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Aug 26, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Robert Griffin III (10) runs with the ball against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 26, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Robert Griffin III (10) runs with the ball against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

The Cleveland Browns open the season Sunday in Philadelphia. What must the Browns do to win their first season opener since 2004?

It is no secret that the Cleveland Browns are in a full rebuilding process, one which far from guarantees immediate success. It is also no secret that the organization has struggled in season openers, losing each one over the past decade.

But a brand new start gives the team a chance to put all of this behind them. Sunday’s opening game against the Philadelphia Eagles will be the ultimate test for the Browns as they look to begin writing a new chapter in their history.

Due to the fact that this game is one the Browns could win, the pressure on the team matches the excitement of the fans. While expectations are low, an 11-game season opening losing streak is on the line, including an ugly home loss to the Eagles in 2012 in which Brandon Weeden threw four interceptions. A win Sunday would not only break the streak, but indicate that this new regime is truly ready to turn the page.

Sunday’s game marks the beginning of the 2016 regular season, and is the ultimate indicator of success. The Browns will assuredly have a detailed game plan coming in, but results will depend on execution. For fans watching, here are five aspects of Sunday’s game in which the Browns will need to excel to begin the season with a winning record for the first time since 2004.

Next: Establish the ground game

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