Cleveland Browns are in good position to make playoffs by winning division
By John Suchan
The Cleveland Browns best chance at the playoffs is winning the AFC North division. That is well within reach when you look at other divisional opponents’ schedules
The Cleveland Browns and Las Vegas Raiders are now scheduled to play Monday at 5 pm down at First Energy Stadium. The two teams were supposed to play Saturday but due to the Browns having over 20 players out of the game due to following the Covid health and safety protocols the NFL rescheduled the game.
This very unusual week for the Browns has now been extended two days. Does the extra time give this team a boost and potentially give time to get a few players back that are currently out? We’ll know more by game time.
At this time, the Browns have gotten a few players back from the original list. Linebacker Anthony Walker, defensive end Takk McKinley, and offensive lineman Wyatt Teller all were given the okay to play on Sunday.
Other big-name players like quarterback Baker Mayfield, wide receiver Jarvis Landry and defensive safeties Ronnie Harrison and John Johnson III remain on the Covid list. The Browns have until 2 pm on Monday to make any final moves for the game.
In general, Cleveland has these last four games of the season to try and land a playoff spot. They are 7-6 on the year and are in the mix as the season finishes up. Does Cleveland need this win Monday?
Any win at this point would be a huge benefit to the team. But with the Browns finishing the year playing two divisional teams in the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cincinnati Bengals, a loss Monday or even one next weekend on Christmas Day against the Green Bay Packers wouldn’t be the end of a playoff chance.
The chances for Cleveland at this point might be stronger to reach the playoffs by winning the division. Let’s look at each team in the division and discuss why the Browns still will be in the race to the very last game.