3 things the Cleveland Browns can accept after Week 1
By Greg Newland
After the Cleveland Browns pull out an emotional win over Mayfield and the Panthers, it’s time to completely turn the page.
Sunday was as emotional a win as I’ve ever experienced as a fan. Not only did the Cleveland Browns get their first opening day win since 2004, but they also took down their former quarterback Baker Mayfield who had his eyes set on payback.
At this point, just be happy with the win. The Browns dominated 90 percent of the game, but a few big busts on defense and erred throws allowed Mayfield and the Carolina Panthers to keep it close and even take the lead at the end.
I try not to get too excited about kickers, but it feels like this kid Cade York is for real. Finishing four for four on the day including the game-winning kick from 58-yards out.
It’s been an awkward offseason with the trade of Mayfield, the suspension of Deshaun Watson, and this matchup looming in week one. Now that we are past all of that, there are three major takeaways that all Cleveland fans should leave with.
3 things Browns can accept after Week 1
No. 3: The offense isn’t the same
Trust me, I wanted this game today more than anyone. I don’t dislike Mayfield or think he’s an awful person/quarterback, but I didn’t want him to get the last word either. The most frustrating thing on Sunday would have been the Panthers winning and everyone second-guessing what the Browns did this offseason.
Jacoby Brissett is not Watson. Comparing this team in Week 1 to what it will be in Week 13 with Watson is like comparing apples to oranges. Brissett did exactly what he needed to do to get the victory, but had he even made two long-distance throws this game could have been over at halftime.
This team only needs to win five or six games to have a shot at the playoffs while Watson is suspended. With the Steelers upsetting the Bengals and the Browns getting a last-second victory, the plan is still intact.