NFL Power Rankings: October Edition finds LA Rams rising

15. Cleveland Browns

The 3-1 Cleveland Browns were decimated by the Baltimore Ravens but defeated inferior teams in the Dallas Cowboys, Cincinnati Bengals, and Washington Football team. The true test of the Browns will be how they fare against tougher competition.

2020 Summary

After four games, the Browns remain a bit of an enigma. Are they are aren’t they a bona fide contender this year? After several seasons of being told this-is-the-year, you will need to forgive me for being over cautions. So far, the Browns appear to be more cohesive and balanced this year.

2020 Outlook

The Browns are the wild card variable for the AFC playoffs.  If they are legitimately good, the AFC North could send the Ravens, Steelers, and Browns to the playoffs.  Looking at their schedule, they have the potential to end this season at 10-6. Will that be enough to earn a playoff berth? With seven slots this year, it most certainly should be.

The Browns are getting tremendous gains on the ground thanks to Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt.  That has taken a lot of pressure off of QB Baker Mayfield, who can play the role of game manager better than game-winner. As long as the Browns ground and pound, this is a dangerous team.