2008 Fantasy Football Team by Team Analysis: Cleveland Browns

The 2007 Cleveland Browns were the surprise of the NFL. No one predicted them to finish with the same record as the Steelers (10-6). The Browns proved that competition at quarterback is never a bad thing. The play of Derek Anderson has allowed Brady Quinn to mature before being thrown into the fire. Anderson must get off to a hot start, otherwise Browns fans will be calling for Quinn. Here's how the 2007 Browns compared to the rest of the league on offense and defense.

Offense (Ranking)

Points/Game 25.1 (8th)

Total Yards/Game 351.3 (8th)

Rush Yards/Game 118.4 (10th)

Pass Yards/Game 232.9 (12th)

Defense (Ranking)

Points/Game 23.9 (21st)

Total Yards/Game 359.6 (30th)

Rush Yards/Game 129.5 (27th)

Pass Yards/Game 230.1 (25th)

The Browns defense was a big liability last year. While the offense full of playmakers exploded, the defense disappointed. They were third to last in the league in total yards, and 21^st in points given up. Those are hard things to overcome for an inexperienced team, and this year the defensive unit needs to step it up a notch. Let's take a look at the options the Cleveland Browns present for fantasy football teams this year:

Quarterback

The former 6^th round pick had a remarkable year last year. Anderson completed 298 out of 527 passes for 3,787 yards including 29 touchdowns and 19 interceptions. While he isn't the most mobile quarterback in the league, he also ran for 3 touchdowns. Anderson is a legitimate starter in this league, and is a great option for your fantasy team. He has the tools around him to succeed, and this year should be no different.

Running Back

Jamal Lewis is a real frustrating player to have on your fantasy team. Week 2 last year, Lewis ran for 216 yards and a touchdown. Week 3, Lewis had just 56 yards and no touchdowns. Lewis has been inconsistent his whole career, and is a hard running back to put in your starting lineup on a week-to-week basis. Don't rely on Lewis to be a starter, but would serve as an adequate backup on your team.

Wide Receiver