Sports

The Cleveland Browns and New York Jets have played some legendary games.

They launched "Monday Night Football" in 1970. Then there was that 1986 double-overtime playoff game won by the Browns.

Stakes are considerably lower tonight, Aug. 7, as the Browns and Jets christen the preseason at Cleveland Browns Stadium.

But the curiosity factor is great where these Browns are concerned, and an enthusiastic turnout is expected.

Who will play? Mostly backups and third-stringers after the first couple of possessions. Jets C Nick Mangold and K Mike Nugent grew up in Centerville.

Who won't play? The Browns likely will be without TEs Kellen Winslow (knee) and Steve Heiden (back), FB Lawrence Vickers (hamstring), WR Kevin Kasper (hamstring), OL Seth McKinney (ankle), S Gary Baxter (knee) and LBs Antwan Peek (knee) and Beau Bell (knee).

And the Jets' QB is: A mystery. No, it won't be Brett Favre. Not yet anyway. Head coach Eric Mangini, a former Browns PR intern, will choose between Kellen Clemens and Chad Pennington to start. Coin flip perhaps?

Today's game

Who: N.Y. Jets at Browns

What: Preseason opener

Time: 7:30 p.m. TV: Ch. 7

Tickets: Available, starting at $32