Cleveland Browns: 5 reasons Browns will score Week 1 win vs Titans

2. Mariota not a franchise QB

Thankfully, the Browns don’t have to go up against an elite franchise quarterback in the opener, like they did when Ben Roethlisberger came to town one year ago.

This isn’t me cracking Mariota. Look no further than at what the Titans think of the former No. 2 overall draft pick. Mariota is playing under his fifth-year option. If the Titans truly believe in the Oregon product, the organization would’ve gotten a deal done a long time ago.

Instead, Mariota has delivered a 28-29 career record since being selected back in 2015.

Against the Browns, Mariota will have a rough go of things, with starting left tackle Taylor Lewan serving the first of a four-game suspension. The Browns’ defensive line, and in particular, Myles Garrett and Olivier Vernon, could make the difference in the game.

Throughout his career, Mariota’s never really struck me as a quarterback you can depend on with the game on the line. Meanwhile, Mariota’s counter part in this game, Baker Mayfield, looks every bit the part.

With so many NFL games coming down to the wire, Mayfield’s ability to deliver, and Mariota’s in ability to do so, may end up making the difference in the game.