Browns schedule: 1 PM slots abound, best for fans? Players?

With the NFL schedule release each year, one of the biggest questions is how many prime-time games the Cleveland Browns will receive. Historically, when the team is coming off a bad season, most of its games have been scheduled in the 1:00 p.m. EST time slot. This season is no different; the Browns have one primetime game on Thursday Night Football against the Pittsburgh Steelers in week four.

The atmosphere in the stadium is more exciting for primetime games. Knowing that all eyes are on one game creates a special environment. There is a different level of intensity to these games, and it shows in the energy from both the players and the fans.

On a week-to-week basis, it is much preferred to have 1:00 PM games. For a team that is struggling to find its identity, it is better not to have all eyes on its games. Cleveland will most likely be giving reps to a young quarterback this season, whether it is Shedeur Sanders, Dillon Gabriel, or Taylen Green, or Deshaun Watson, who will be trying to resurrect his career.

There is significantly less pressure for a young quarterback to make mistakes and feel the speed of the game in a 1:00 PM game than in a primetime game. With a schedule heavily centered around afternoon games this season, the Browns could benefit both offensively and as a team overall.

For fans who watch from home, dedicating evenings to a rebuilding team may not be the best use of their time. Having a consistent schedule at 1 PM allows for planning and stability.