3 Cleveland Browns offensive X-factors vs. Ravens Week 1

1.Baker Mayfield

Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield needs to have a great start to the season Sunday for the Browns to win the game. Mayfield was largely successful his rookie season putting up 27 TDs and only 14 interceptions in just 13.5 games. He then followed that with a poor sophomore season. He finished with 22 TDs and 21 interceptions.

Mayfield seems to be in much better condition this season and will hopefully be more mobile in the pocket. Kevin Stefanski’s play action system plays to Mayfield’s strengths as a passer. OBJ and Landry both underwent offseason surgery and are 100 percent healthy and ready to be playmakers for Mayfield. Hooper is set to be a huge threat in the middle of the field and red zone.

The offense goes as Baker Mayfield goes. If he has a great game Sunday, look for the offense to show some firepower and score some points. If he continues his struggles from last season, this game could get ugly.

Look for Mayfield to thrive under the new offense and deliver some passes accurately down the field. If he gets comfortable behind the offensive line, he can be a problem for the Raven’s defense.

Again, Mayfield’s success is also reliant on the previous two X-factors, Chubb and Wills and how well they play. With a successful run game and a stable offensive line, Mayfield will be set up for a great game.

Hopefully the Browns will show some structure and discipline which results in some excitement on the offensive side of the ball. If Mayfield stays poised and avoids too many mistakes, look for the Browns’ offense to flow nicely and perhaps come out with a 1-0 start to the 2020 season.