Are you optimistic — or pessimistic — about the Browns for the 2024 season?

One group of oddsmakers has set the Browns’ win total at 8.5. In a 17-game season, that’s .500. Taking the over on that would mean a 9-8 record, or better. The under would mean an 8-9 mark, or worse.

Sports Illustrated staff writer Gilberto Manzano is optimistic in that regard as he is taking the over.

Here’s what he wrote about that — and the Browns — on the magazine’s website, si.com:

“There’s a lot to like about Cleveland’s balanced roster, but they have concerns with quarterback Deshaun Watson, who hasn’t come close to playing up to the huge expectations after he signed a fully-guaranteed $230 million contract in 2022. The Browns, though, have a dominant defense that will keep them competitive throughout the season, despite how Watson performs. Perhaps the addition of wide receiver Jerry Jeudy helps Watson find consistency.”

The oddsmakers have the defending AFC North champion Baltimore Ravens at 11.5 victories, and Manzano is taking the under on that. The Cincinnati Bengals are projected at 10.5 wins, and he is taking the over on that. He is taking the under on the Pittsburgh Steelers, whose total has been established at 8.5 victories.

When you boil away all the superfluous, then, what does this mean?

That, once again, it will be a real dogfight this season within the North, the toughest division in the NFL.

What do I think?

I agree with Manzano. Everything hinges on Watson and his health. The defense can do a lot, but it will boil down to the quarterback. It’s like that with all teams, but especially with the Browns because of Watson and that surgically-repaired shoulder.

Steve King