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The best measurement to determine the actual beginning of a pro sports franchise is when the first regular-season game is played.

In that respect, then, the Browns officially turn 80 on Sunday.

It it was on Sept. 6, 1946 that the Browns shut out the Miami Seahawks 44-0 before 60,135 at Cleveland Stadium to help launch the All-America Football Conference.

As evidenced by the score, the Browns dominated the game, rolling up 345 total yards, split almost evenly between passing yards (167) and running yards (178), to just 27 for the Seahawks, including minus-1 yard rushing.

The Browns led 10-0 after the first quarter, their opening score being a 19 m-yard touchdown pass from not Otto Graham but rather Cliff Lewis, to wide receiver Mac Speedie. Graham played the second quarter and threw a 39-yard TD pass to another wideout, Dante Lavelli, who also did not start the game, to spur a 27-0 halftime lead.

Cornerback Ray Terrell completed the Browns scoring when he had a 76-yard interception return for a touchdown in the fourth quarter.

Bill Willis (middle guard and right guard), Mo Scarry (center and right linebacker) and Chet Adams (right tackle and left defensive tackle) all were two-way starters..

It was a sight to behold, and the start of something very special.

Steve King