Cleveland Browns: NFL thinks archrivalry will reignite in 2019
The Cleveland Browns are poised to move up the NFL’s rankings in 2019. With a division championship to set their sights on, the Browns will reignite their rivalry with the Pittsburgh Steelers next season.
The Cleveland Browns are no longer the red-headed stepchild of the AFC North. Rather, they are (at least on paper) a force to be reckoned with, and a serious contender for the division title. With this honor comes a whole slew of new rivals for the Browns to take on, and the fire of current rivalries will burn even brighter.
In NFL.com’s article listing the top 5 league rivalries for 2019, the Browns and Pittsburgh Steelers rank No. 1. Adam Rank had this to say on the power struggle that will consume Pittsburgh and Cleveland next season.
"“…there will be no in between with these two. Either the Browns fulfill their destiny this season and win the division in convincing fashion, rollicking past the competition while the Steelers fall into further chaos. Or the Browns finish 5-11, while the Steelers claim the top seed in the AFC. I’m telling you: It’s one or the other.”"
The arch nemesis of Cleveland football, the Steelers have reigned supreme over the Dawg Pound since the Browns returned in 1999. But, with all the talent added in Cleveland this offseason, the Browns could finally be ready to punch back with a vengeance.
Quarterback Baker Mayfield, along with running back Nick Chubb, wide receiver Jarvis Landry, and the newly acquired Odell Beckham Jr. completes an offense that finally has the firepower to contend with the black and yellow.
Make no mistake: Mayfield will get the Cleveland Browns ready to battle against any and all competition in 2019. But, if his games against the Texas Longhorns in college are any indication, Mayfield has mastered the art of the rivalry.
Next. Fanbase votes Browns into Fox’s Final Four. dark
It is deep in his blood, and as the Browns and Steelers square off in 2019, fans can expect two knock-down drag-out wars between Cleveland and Pittsburgh. And really, that’s how it should be with these two.