How far can the Browns go?

The Cleveland Browns have been mediocre for so long that they're associated with futility. From "The Drive" to Art Modell moving the original team to Baltimore to Randy Lerner, Browns fans have been subjected to endless amounts of torture. However, this season seems to be a little different for Cleveland.

Sitting at 8-3 and in contention for one of three wild card spots in the AFC, the Browns have guaranteed themselves at least a .500 season. Led by Nick Chubb and a gritty run game, the Browns are playing smash-mouth football at the right time.

So how far can the Browns actually go? Cleveland seems destined for a playoff spot for the first time since 2002 and they might make some noise. Their first round matchup would be with Buffalo, which would be tough considering Buffalo finally has a passing game. Stefon Diggs and Josh Allen may prove to be too much for Cleveland to handle. Still, Cleveland could give Buffalo fits of its own with their running game. Chubb (and Kareem Hunt) is a solid running back that can cause trouble and open the passing game up for Baker Mayfield.

The one team Cleveland will have to watch for is obviously Pittsburgh with their strong linebacker group. Kansas City is another team to watch for and you know why. The good news for Cleveland is that Baltimore has been figured out and is slipping. Cleveland also has at least a game up on the Las Vegas Raiders for a playoff spot. The Browns could be a team that makes a run through the playoffs with their run game. They'll just have to be wary of the two top dogs in the AFC.