The Cleveland Browns face the Jacksonville 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 most key starters will rest.

Team Outlooks

Browns:

• Coming off breakthrough 2020 playoff season
• Baker Mayfield and starting skill players expected to sit
• Strong running game remains focal point of offense
• Defense showed promise in 2020 playoffs against Chiefs

Jaguars:

• Looking to improve after 1-15 season in 2020
• Rookie QB Trevor Lawrence expected to play
• New coaching staff implementing systems
• First-team offense likely to see action
• Defense remains a question mark

Key Factors

• Browns prioritizing regular season over preseason results
• Jaguars treating game as important development opportunity
• Home field advantage for Jacksonville
• Roster spots still up for grabs on both teams
• Motivation levels may differ between teams

The Browns bring the stronger overall roster, but preseason results often come down to depth and which team approaches the game with more urgency. With Jacksonville likely playing more starters and emphasizing the importance of preseason games under a new regime, they hold slight advantages despite being the weaker team on paper.

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