Cleveland Browns get a shot at redemption in Week 1

The Cleveland Browns fantastic season last year came to an end against the Kansas City Chiefs but they can get revenge in Week 1 of the 2021 season

Week 1 has not been kind to the Cleveland Browns. Since returning to the NFL in 1999, they are a staggering 1-19-1 in the opening game of the season.

That last win came all the way back in 2004 when they knocked off the hated Baltimore Ravens 20-3. The tie was more recent, as they were unable to hit a game-winning field goal and scored a draw against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Following an 11-win campaign and a playoff run, the opening week blues are the final thing this Cleveland squad needs to put to bed. But it won’t be easy in 2021 as they face the very team that knocked them out of the playoffs this past year, the Kansas City Chiefs.

Cleveland had a shot in that game, especially after seeing Patrick Mahomes sidelined with a concussion. However, the defense couldn’t make a key stop late against Chad Henne and the offense struggled to get deep — meaning they actually helped the Chiefs kill the clock with their running game eating up chunks of time.

But now, they can get back at the team that hurt them late in the year last season thanks to this opportunity. And yes, this is a tough contest but it’s also a massive opportunity for the Browns.

There’s once again real hype around this team as a contender in 2021 and they fixed a lot of their issues. They got exponentially more talented on defense and even added sub 4.3 speed in the passing game with Anthony Schwartz. On top of that, Odell Beckham, Jr. should also make his return to the field that game as well.

Just for som added measure, there could be some hype for the team as well since Baker Mayfield is set to make history that day, becoming the first quarterback to start three-straight seasons under center in Week 1 since their 1999 re-introduction.

Facing the two-time defending AFC Champions in Week 1 is a tough task but the Browns can use this as a shot at redemption while proving they’re for real this time.