INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – DECEMBER 27: Justin Herbert #10 of the Los Angeles Chargers makes a pass from the backfield in the second quarter against the Denver Broncos at SoFi Stadium on December 27, 2020, in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Joe Scarnici/Getty Images)
The Cleveland Browns really have to win these five games in 2021.
2020 was a massive success for the Cleveland Browns, who reached the postseason for the first time since 2002 and upset their bitter rivals, the Pittsburgh Steelers, on Wild Card Weekend. Cleveland also had a golden opportunity to knock off the Kansas City Chiefs in the Divisional Round but fell short, losing 22-17.
Expectations are going to skyrocket for the Browns in 2021, who have a chance to make a push to reach the AFC Championship Game with a strong season. Getting there will require plenty of wins in the regular season, including these five games that Cleveland simply has to get.
5 games the Browns must win on the 2021 NFL schedule
5. Cleveland Browns must-win games – At Los Angeles Chargers
The Browns got to the playoffs as a wild card in 2020 and the key head-to-head tiebreakers they earned along the way were a big help. One team that could be a threat to Cleveland’s wild card hopes in 2021 is the Los Angeles Chargers, who are poised to make a big leap forward in Justin Herbert’s second year.
The Chargers finished the season strong, rallying from a rough start to finish 7-9. There is every reason to believe that Los Angeles’ clock management issues should resolve under new head coach Brandon Staley, which should be a big help along with a key return from star safety Derwin James.
This game is in Los Angeles and could be a game that proves critical for both teams in the AFC playoff picture. Cleveland would be well advised to win it and secure that critical head-to-head tiebreaker early on.