Ep 4. Cleveland '95

A Football Life season 2 episode 4, titled Cleveland '95, takes us back to one of the most pivotal moments in Cleveland Browns history. The city of Cleveland was ecstatic when the Browns made it to the playoffs in 1994, but their excitement was short-lived when their team was unceremoniously moved to Baltimore by owner Art Modell. This event was heartbreaking for Browns fans, who had been devoted to their team for decades.

The episode delves into the circumstances that led up to the move. We hear from journalists, former players, and fans who describe the passion and loyalty that surrounded the Browns. Cleveland was a blue-collar city that was proud of its football team, which had a storied history and a fierce rivalry with the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Browns had loyal supporters who stuck with them through thick and thin, even when they struggled to win games.

The episode also delves into the business side of the decision to move the team to Baltimore. We learn about Art Modell's financial difficulties and his desire to build a new stadium in Cleveland. However, when the city was unable to come up with a plan that pleased everyone, Modell decided to move the team to Baltimore, where he had a favorable deal with the city.

The entire situation was emotionally charged, and the episode does a great job of capturing the feelings of Browns fans who felt betrayed by Modell and the NFL. We hear from people who were at the last home game in Cleveland, which was filled with tears and chants of "We want our Browns back!" We also hear from fans who took part in the protests against the move and who still hold a grudge against the NFL for letting it happen.

Despite the sadness that permeates the episode, there are moments of hope and restoration. We learn about the fight to bring the Browns back to Cleveland, which was successful after a few years of hard work. The city rallied around the team once again, and fans were able to enjoy football Sundays at home in Cleveland.

Overall, Cleveland '95 is a powerful episode that highlights the deep emotional attachment that fans have to their football teams. It's a reminder that sports are more than just games – they are a source of community and pride for many people. This episode is a must-watch for football fans, especially those who remember the Browns' tumultuous journey in the 1990s.