The Cleveland Browns head to Jacksonville to face the Jaguars in their 2021 preseason opener as 2.5-point underdogs. After making the playoffs and winning a postseason game in 2020, the Browns look to build on their success, though their main focus remains on the regular season.

Key Game Details:

• Baker Mayfield and other key starters not expected to play
• Browns will maintain run-heavy offensive approach
• Defense aims to continue momentum from strong 2020 playoff performance
• Trevor Lawrence expected to play for Jaguars

Team Analysis:

Browns Outlook:

• Coming off breakthrough 2020 playoff season
• Strong running game remains offensive identity
• Limited participation expected from starters
• Focus on evaluating roster depth

Jaguars Status:

• New coaching staff implementing systems
• Trevor Lawrence to see first NFL action
• Looking to improve from 1-15 record in 2020
• First-team offense expected to play more than typical preseason

Game Impact:

• Jacksonville has home field advantage
• Browns are the better overall team but that matters less in preseason
• Motivation level could be key factor
• Jaguars likely to treat game as more meaningful for development

Despite Cleveland's regular season potential, Jacksonville's greater urgency and playing time for key players makes them slight favorites in this preseason matchup. The game's outcome will likely depend on which team shows more intensity and execution from their depth players.

Related Articles

Previous Articles