5 pivotal matchups in the Browns season opener

The Cleveland Browns are going up against history, their former quarterback, and the Carolina Panthers in their season opener. Here are 5 matchups that could decide the game in Charlotte.

With the preseason officially in their rearview mirror, the Cleveland Browns now get to focus all of their efforts on winning their season opener. The first team on their hitlist for the 2022 docket is the Carolina Panthers. This will be the seventh meeting between the teams, with the Panthers holding a 4-2 lead in the series.

Even though the two teams have not faced off since 2018, the Browns will see an all too familiar face on the opposite sideline in Baker Mayfield. But contrary to the national headlines, Cleveland will be playing against the entire Panthers’ roster and not just their ex-signal caller. Today, we will highlight five pivotal matchups for the upcoming tilt in Charlotte on Sunday.

5 pivotal matchups in the Browns season opener

5. Jedrick Wills vs Brian Burns

A lot has been made of Cleveland’s defense leading up to the season opener, but the Panthers boast a dangerous defense themselves. Carolina has legitimate threats at every level of their defense and Brian Burns is the headliner of the Panthers’ defensive line. Through three seasons, Burns has racked up an impressive 25.5 sacks with an additional 55 quarterback hits and an astounding 26 tackles for loss.

Jedrick Wills will draw the Burns assignment this Sunday in Charlotte. Wills has had an up-and-down start to his NFL career that can mostly be attributed to his level of health. By all accounts, Wills is heading into the season healthy with a lot to prove to his detractors.

Wills will have his hands full with the disruptive edge defender, but the third-year left tackle could make quite a statement if he is able to neutralize Burns in the season opener. It will be telling to see if the coaching staff gives Wills any additional help against Burns or if they feel comfortable enough to leave their potential franchise left-tackle alone on an island.