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Coming off a thrilling win against their long-time division rival, the Cleveland Browns have regained momentum in this year's tight-knit AFC race. After getting off to a hot start during their crucial matchup with the Baltimore Ravens, the Browns showed they've still got plenty of fight in them and won't back down from anyone.
Despite blowing a 24-0 lead and barely pulling out the win, the Browns still held their own and came away with a pivotal win in Week 14. At this point, they can't afford to drop more games, especially with the jockeying for positions getting rougher every week.
Let's take a look at the three biggest takeaways from the Browns' tight win against the Ravens on Sunday.
Baker Mayfield's play has been inconsistent as of late
Even though he had a highly productive day against the Ravens, Mayfield's play has been very up and down in recent weeks and it doesn't seem like we know which version of the Pro Bowl quarterback we'll be getting. If the Browns want to build on last season's success and continue to progress, then Mayfield will need to be on his A-game for the duration of the season.
When he's at his absolute best, there's no denying that he's one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL, but he does have a tendency to be turnover-prone and make some head-scratching plays at the wrong time. He did give the Browns a huge boost on offense against the Ravens and if they want to keep pace in the AFC wild card race then they'll need more performances like this from Mayfield.
Myles Garrett has done it all for the Browns
From leading the team in tackles and sacks to forcing fumbles and breaking free for touchdown runs, Garrett has been nothing but excellent this season. His relentlessness and aggression have been the driving force behind his stellar play and that's exactly what has set the tone for the Browns' star-studded defensive unit.
If he is to keep this up then the rest of the league better watch out because Garrett definitely won't let up in the slightest. As they pursue another playoff appearance and gun for a Super Bowl run, the Browns will be in great shape if Garrett is able to keep up with this pace of play and ignite their electric defense.
Browns have been overlooked as playoff contenders
Despite all the controversy and streakiness from the Browns this season, they still possess a 7-6 record and are in a good position to make the NFL Playoffs. Granted that there are still ways to go before anything's official, but the Browns have shown heart and battled through adversity while coming away with some solid wins this season.
Plus when fully healthy, the team boasts a ton of talent on both ends of the field and will make for a tough out in the postseason. With so much riding on these next few weeks, the Browns must do all they can to stay in the mix. If they do wind up going on a tear, then this could spell trouble for whoever they wind up crossing paths with during the wild card round.
