Can the Browns Move the Ball—Both Run and Pass? A Week 1 Preview vs. Bengals

Mastering the Ground and Air: Cleveland’s Offensive Outlook for Week 1

The Cleveland Browns kick off their 2025 season at Huntington Bank Field on Sunday, September 7, at 1 pm ET. This opener against AFC North rival Cincinnati feels particularly meaningful—not just for standing in the division, but for setting the tone early. Head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed the team is healthy and primed for evaluation from the get-go.

As quarterback Joe Flacco said on September 3, “Division games are always battles,” adding that how they prepare this week will reveal much about the team’s identity.

Key Storyline: Can Cleveland Attack in Both Phases?

The Passing Game
Flacco—who once threw for 309 yards and three touchdowns in his final game in Cleveland back in 2023—is back at the controls. In that same game, Jerome Ford not only ran for 64 yards but also caught two TDs, including a stunning 50-yard score.
During the preseason, the Browns passed well, topping 200 yards in each of their last two contests. Yet, in the final preseason tune-up against the Rams, Flacco had limited attempts—earning 90% completion but just 71 yards and one TD.
The Ground Game
Cleveland rushed for an encouraging 342 yards across their three preseason games, finding the end zone twice on the ground. Ford, familiar with carrying the load, had limited touches in the final warm-up (just two runs for 14 yards and two short receptions) but remains a reliable, explosive playmaker.
Health and Preparedness
Advantage Cleveland: entering the season opener healthy—a crucial edge in a rivalry opener where execution matters. The team’s mantra? “Master the game plan, play your role,” Flacco emphasized.

Mastering the Ground and Air: Cleveland’s Offensive Outlook for Week 1

Key Storyline: Can Cleveland Attack in Both Phases?

See More