It was just four years ago, during the year 2007, when Cleveland sports fans were wrapped up in exciting NFL, MLB, and NBA action. "Cleveland?" you ask. Yes, Cleveland is only four years removed from having all three professional sports franchises being relevant to playoff action, including playing for an NBA title. So, how far have they fallen? Let's take a look.
Where They Were in 2007
The Cleveland Browns, one of the most proud NFL franchises, behind QB Derek Anderson and WR Joshua Cribbs put up an astonishing 10-6 record under coach Romeo Crennel. Improving from 4-12 the year before and having strong playoff hopes. Although they did not qualify for playoff action, the Browns seemed destined to end their run of playoff futility.
The Cleveland Indians, a staple franchise in the MLB since 1894, had a stellar year in '07. Winning the AL Central Crown with a record of 96-66. They beat the New York Yankees in the Divisional Round of the playoffs in 4 games. Although eventually losing to the Boston Red Sox in 7 games in the ALCS, they were within 1 victory of heading to the World Series. A successful season by MLB standards (unless you are from Boston or New York).
The Cleveland Cavaliers (Lebrons). Behind NBA superstar Lebron James, the Cavs finished the 2006-2007 in 2nd place in the Eastern Conference with a 50-32 record. After beating Washington, New Jersey, and Detroit in the first three rounds (12-4 record) they found themselves in the NBA finals against the San Antonio Spurs. Although being swept in the finals by a powerful Spurs team, the Cavaliers were on the cusp of greatness and an NBA title seemed imminent.
The City of Cleveland had alot to look forward to in the coming years. Or so they thought.
Where They are Now (2011)
The Browns have gone 5-11 in two straight seasons and have fired coach Eric Mangini. Shocker.
The Indians haven't made the playoffs since 2007 and are struggling to sell 18,000 tickets per game. Double Shocker.
The Cavaliers have lost Lebron James' talents to South Beach, fired coach Mike Brown, own an 8-36 record and have lost 26 of their last 27 games. I almost feel bad.
But hey, at least they have the creepy homeless guy with the million dollar voice.
In conclusion, being a fan of Boston sports teams is a blessing. We can bitch about them all we want but at the end of the day, All four teams are relevant in terms of being legitimate playoff contenders. There will be a time in the future where the Red Sox, Celtics, Patriots (Giants), and Bruins do not make the playoffs and I am scared to find out what that life will bring. So enjoy it while it lasts folks.
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