The Browns have an easier schedule than expected

The Cleveland Browns have the ninth easiest schedule in the NFL according to a new model

According to a new report, the Cleveland Browns have one of the easiest schedules in the league. X user Deepvaluebettor conducted the preview by combining multiple metrics creating a robust analysis of team schedules. The model examines how travel and rest days can affect teams, contextualizing the difficulties teams face when flying across time zones or playing after a short week. The Browns managed to avoid the brunt of negative situations this season, traveling only 6,000 miles and remaining in Eastern Standard Time for most of the season.

The Browns have the 9th easiest schedule in the league. According to the model, this season ranks in the 30th percentile of hardest schedules since 1999. 

The Browns don’t travel further west than Las Vegas this season. The team also caught a break by hosting the Miami Dolphins in Week 17. The team will fully benefit from home-field advantage, including the freezing temperatures.

The Browns need all the help they can get as they compete for the AFC North title. The division title has eluded the battle-tested team since they came back in 1999. 

The Browns have built a playoff contender, and winning the division is the best step toward establishing a perennial Super Bowl contender.