COLUMBUS – The Browns and Bengals open their 2020 NFL seasons Sunday in empty stadiums in an effort to blunt the spread of the coronavirus.
The Browns will be in Baltimore while Cincinnati hosts the Chargers.
It won’t always be that way.
Governor Mike DeWine granted the team a variance from state restrictions on crowds for sporting events that will allow 6,000 spectators to attend Thursday’s game between the in-state rivals at Cleveland’s FirstEnergy Stadium, as well as three other games during the season, including the Browns’ Oct. 25 game at Cincinnati.
The Chiefs and Texans kicked off the NFL season Thursday night in front of some 17,000 fans at Arrowhead Stadium.
When other teams take the field Sunday, some will play before empty stands, while others will see crowds reduced, based on team and state policy.
DeWine also announced a variance for Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course for the Honda Indy 200 this weekend because the raceway’s large outdoor facility can accommodate social distancing..
Attendance will be limited to 6,000 spectators, and social distancing and masks will be required.