3 Games Atlanta Falcons fans should be watching closely in week one

3. Cleveland Browns @Carolina Panthers

While a Carolina Panthers loss would benefit the Atlanta Falcons even the most ardent Atlanta fans have to admit there would be a bit of karmic justice in Baker Mayfield beating the Browns in week one.  The Carolina Panthers are objectively a fascinating team this season one that could be in wildcard contention just as easily as they could be contending with Atlanta for a top-ten draft pick.

Baker Mayfield could prove to be the missing piece that pushes this team into the playoffs or prove to be the bust the Browns believe him to be. The off-season drama will have a short-term answer in week one when the Browns travel to Carolina.

For the Browns, this game is about leaning on Nick Chubb and allowing quarterback Jacoby Brissett to play a game manager role. Deshaun Watson is out for the first eleven games can the Browns steal a win in week one and keep the team in contention until he returns from suspension?  The Panthers and Browns have no shortage of interesting stories in one of the most underrated week one matchups.