Cleveland Browns 2020 schedule: Way too early record prediction

After great anticipation, the NFL finally released team schedules on May 7th, which means it’s time for a way too early prediction on wins and losses for the Cleveland Browns

The Cleveland Browns have known their opponents for a while, but now the schedule is officially set. Of their NFC opponents, the Browns may have lucked out this year drawing the NFC East. The Dallas Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles are formable opponents, but the Washington Redskins and New York Giants appear to still be in a rebuilding mode.

The NFC West is likely the best conference in football, with the NFC South not far behind after the addition of Tom Brady to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The NFC North also appears to be tough once again, with tough defenses and of course Aaron Rodgers.

The Browns once again have high expectations going into 2020. After similar expectations in 2019, head coach Freddie Kitchens saw aspirations spiral downward quickly, and after only six wins he was relieved of coaching duties following the season.

While the division remains tough, the Browns appear ready to make a charge at the playoffs and contend for a division title.

Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens will be more motivated than ever following a disappointing loss in the divisional round of the playoffs vs. the Tennessee Titans last season. The Ravens have continued to bolster their defense via the draft and free agency and appear to be ready to contend for a Super Bowl. Don’t think the Ravens will forget the beating the Browns put on them in Baltimore week four last season, a late long ball to Odell Beckham will certainly have them ready to play the Browns in 2020.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have appeared to be on their way down the last three seasons, but even last year with Ben Roethlisberger hurt the Steelers still had a chance at the playoffs. The defense has continued to perform at a high level, and with a healthy Roethlisberger, no win will be easy against the Steelers. Browns fans are thrilled to see Jack Conklin have a shot at blocking T.J. Watt who has made a career against the Browns in the past.

As or their in-state rivals, the Cincinnati Bengals are predicted to finish in the basement once again, but teams better not overlook the Bengals. No. 1 draft pick Joe Burrow could be a rookie standout with wide receiver A.J. Green expected back on the field in 2020. The Bengals have been more aggressive than ever in free agency and appear to be in a “win now” mode vs. rebuilding. The Browns have the better roster, but the rivalry will likely keep both battles contested next season.

Keep reading for a breakdown of each game and the Browns projected win total for 2020.