OHIO — The tables have turned for the two Ohio NFL teams. Browns fans went into the season with excitement and determination. The team went to the playoffs last season for the first time since 2002. Many Browns fans thought the team would for sure make it again this year, and some even had Super Bowl expectations.
“I had very high expectations,” said Justin Hull, a Browns fan. “I was thinking Super Bowl all offseason. We got a lot of good free agents coming off a big, big playoff run, play away from beating the Chiefs. I mean, I expected nothing less than a deep run into the playoffs. And Super Bowl was on my mind.”
In a surprise to many, the Bengals secured the number one spot in the AFC North and made it to the 2022 NFL playoff for the first time since the 2015 season.
“I'm going to be honest: This might be the first year in a while I had low expectations and they finally exceeded my expectations thanks to Joe Burrow, so I couldn't ask for a better season so far,” said Nick Seibert, a Bengals Fan.
Bengals fans are ecstatic, while some Browns fans are left disappointed. Some are even questioning the future of their quarterback, Baker Mayfield.
“He had a very bad year,” said Hull. “I am very disappointed. Still love the Brownies. But at the end of the day it was a disappointing season. We definitely underperformed with how much talent we have on this team.”
Some said Mayfield’s not worthy of a contract extension, while others think he can still pull through once he’s healthy again.
“With Baker injured, I don't really think it's his fault or anything,” said Kalie Holub, a Browns fan. “I think after surgery and recovery he can, you know, lead the team for a better season. So I'm excited for next year. Fingers crossed.”
“I'm a Baker believer,” said Hull. “I want to bring him back next year. I want him to lead our team next year. And you know, I'll be rooting for him all offseason, all next year.”
Meanwhile, quarterback Joe Burrow has pulled through for the Bengals this season. Now, fans are gearing up for the playoffs.
“I can't wait. It's gonna be — it's gonna be a good time!” said Seibert. “We just bought playoff tickets and we're just ready to have a home playoff game and hopefully we can win our first playoff game since ‘91.”
Browns fans are gearing up for redemption next season.
“Redemption is the best word to describe how I'm feeling for next year,” said Hull.
The 2022 NFL playoffs start Saturday, Jan. 15.