Cleveland Browns: 5 keys to the home opener vs. Ravens

The Cleveland Browns host the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday. What must the Browns do to drown out the distractions and win?

With the home opener approaching on Sunday, it is time for the Cleveland Browns to drown out the distractions already swirling around the organization as this young season continues. The home opener is against the Baltimore Ravens, and the Browns appear focused on their opponent.

Putting this week’s game aside for a moment, there are plenty of reasons fans are currently frustrated with the direction the team appears to be headed this year. With Robert Griffin III injured, Josh McCown is once again Cleveland’s starting quarterback. And with a humiliating performance against a sub-par Philadelphia Eagles team last Sunday, expectations may be lower than ever.

But Week 2 presents a new opportunity, and there are reasons to feel a little bit better about the Browns’ chances.

Many believe that starting McCown will actually help stimulate the team’s offense, which was mostly stagnant in the season opener. In reality, this will depend on other factors besides just the quarterback play. The Browns will need to play a sharp, mistake free game on offense, defense and special teams to have a chance to win.

While most focus on the quarterbacks entering a rivalry game that is personal to many fans, the play of McCown will contribute only partially to the outcome of the game. There are several keys for the Browns to focus on. If they are successful in achieving these five detailed objectives, a .500 record in “game twos” of the past 18 years awaits.

Next: Less predictable play calling