In the first season under head coach Kevin Stefanski (2020), the Browns reached the playoffs for the first time in 18 years and finished in the divisional playoffs, which earned the coach the title of “Coach of the Year “.
Last year, with an 8-9 record, it was only good enough for third place in the division and 11th place in the AFC. The trade of QB Deshaun Watson has made headlines for Cleveland this season.
The quarterback finally made his home debut this past weekend. Previously, the Ohio franchise had a one-loss record under the playmaker following his 11-game away ban.
In the 13:3 victory against the Ravens, the hosts definitely benefited from the fact that the guests had to do without their number 1 contact person, Lamar Jackson. Replacement QB Tyler Huntley and his offense were hopelessly overwhelmed by the good Browns defense.
For the first time, Cleveland could keep an opponent completely out of the end zone this season. All it took was one offensive touchdown with three trips to the red zone for the hosts to win easily.
Watson himself still needs time before he returns to normal. The coaches deliberately only make simple calls for their attacking midfielder. It makes few mistakes, but is only partially productive.
But the atmosphere in the team is still good. The team hasn’t given up yet. In the AFC North, however, the Browns are out after another Cincinnati or Baltimore win.
And wildcard contenders like the Dolphins, Patriots, Chargers, or Jets all hold the head-to-head tiebreaker against Cleveland. Bitter losses to the Jets, to Miami and in Week 14 to the Bengals prevented a better starting position.
