The 2024 season is pivotal for the Cleveland Browns as the team looks to solidify its status as a true contender in the AFC. After several seasons of rebuilding and inconsistent performances, the Browns are at a crossroads where expectations are high. With a talented roster led by quarterback Deshaun Watson and defensive star Myles Garrett, the team is poised to make a deep playoff run. However, the pressure is on to deliver, especially given the tough schedule and the competitive nature of the AFC North. Success this season could redefine the franchise’s trajectory, cementing the Browns as a consistent force in the league and potentially paving the way for their first Super Bowl appearance.
- The Browns kick off the year at home against the Dallas Cowboys, a formidable opponent known for their dynamic offense led by quarterback Dak Prescott and Wide Receiver CeeDee Lamb. This game will set the stage for the Browns as they aim to establish themselves as contenders early in the season.
Prediction: 27-24 Browns win. (1-0)
- In Week 2, the Browns head south to face the Jacksonville Jaguars, a young team on the rise. The Jaguars, led by quarterback Trevor Lawrence, are building a strong roster and are expected to be playoff contenders, making this an early-season litmus test for Cleveland.
Prediction: 17-10 Browns win. (2-0)
- Week 3 brings the New York Giants to Cleveland. The Giants are rebuilding under head coach Brian Daboll and have shown flashes of potential, particularly on defense. The Browns will need to take advantage of this matchup to build momentum.
Prediction: 24-10 Browns win, Myles Garrett 4 sacks (3-0)
- Traveling to Las Vegas in Week 4, the Browns will face the Raiders, a team known for its volatile yet explosive offense. Led by newly acquired quarterback Gardner Minshew, who last year threw for over 300 yards against the Browns.
Prediction: 16-10 Browns win. (4-0)
- The Browns continue their road trip in Week 5 against the Washington Commanders, a team in transition but with a stout defense. This matchup could be a defensive battle, testing Cleveland’s offensive line and quarterback Deshaun Watson’s decision-making. At the same time, the defensive line looks to give Jayden Daniels a long day at the office.
Prediction: 24-7 Browns win. (5-0)
- Week 6 brings a tough away game against the Philadelphia Eagles, the reigning NFC champions. The Eagles’ powerful offensive line and potent passing attack will be the biggest challenge the Browns’ defense has faced so far.
Prediction 21-14 Eagles win (5-1)
- In Week 7, the Browns return home for a crucial and first AFC North clash of the season against the Cincinnati Bengals. Led by Joe Burrow, the Bengals are perennial contenders, making this a must-win for Cleveland in their divisional race.
Prediction: 28-21 Browns win. (6-1)
- Week 8 sees the Browns facing off against the Baltimore Ravens, another divisional rival. The Ravens, with Lamar Jackson at the helm and newly acquired Derrick Henry in the backfield, pose a unique challenge with their dual-threat offense.
Prediction:24-13 Ravens win. (6-2)
- After a much-needed Week 10 bye, the Browns travel to New Orleans in Week 11 to face the Saints. The Saints are a team in transition but have a strong defense, which could create a low-scoring affair.
Prediction: 35-14 Browns win. (7-2)
- The Browns host the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 12, reigniting one of the NFL’s oldest rivalries. The Steelers are known for their tough, physical play and this game is expected to be a hard-fought battle.
Prediction: 10-3 Browns win. (8-2)
- In Week 13, the Browns face the Denver Broncos on the road. The Broncos, led by a rookie quarterback, are looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2023 season, making them a dangerous opponent.
Prediction: 24-13 Browns win. (9-2)
- Week 14 brings a rematch against the Steelers, this time in Pittsburgh. The Browns will need to bring their best to get the season sweep of the Steelers.
Prediction: 21-14 Browns win. (10-2)
- In Week 15, the Browns host the Kansas City Chiefs, the defending Super Bowl champions. This game will be a major test of the Browns’ playoff aspirations, as the Chiefs, led by Patrick Mahomes, are one of the NFL’s premier teams. Can the Browns stand toe-to-toe with the NFL’s Juggernaut?
Prediction: 28-17 Chiefs win. (10-3)
- Week 16 features another AFC North clash, this time on the road against the Cincinnati Bengals. Late in the season, this game could have significant playoff implications for both teams.
Prediction: 24-21 Bengals win (10-4)
- The Browns’ final home game comes in Week 17 against the Miami Dolphins on Sunday Night Football. The Dolphins, with their high-powered offense, will test Cleveland’s secondary in prime time!
Prediction: 21-17 Dolphins win. (10-5)
- The regular season concludes with a Week 18 matchup in Baltimore against the Ravens. This game could very well determine playoff seeding, making it a fitting end to what is sure to be a thrilling season.
Prediction: 14-10 Browns win. (11-5) - Season predictions:
- Deshaun Watson makes his first pro bowl since 2020
- Myles Garrett wins back-to-back DPOY
- Nick Chubb returns week 4
The 2024 season is set to be one of the most critical in recent memory for the Cleveland Browns. With a challenging schedule that includes several high-profile matchups and divisional showdowns, the Browns will need to prove that they can compete with the NFL’s elite. As they navigate through the season, each game will carry significant weight in determining their playoff fate and long-term prospects. For a franchise and fanbase hungry for success, this season represents an opportunity to finally realize the potential that has been building over the past few years. The stakes are high, and the journey promises to be as exciting as it is demanding. Whether the Browns emerge as contenders or fall short of expectations, 2024 will undoubtedly be a defining chapter in the team’s history.
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