So you’re saying they got a chance?

Yes, actually about a 99 percent chance according to ESPN analytics.

This evening the Cleveland Browns will host the New York Jets. There is much anticipation as there should be. Despite being down to their fourth quarterback this season and losing their All-Pro running back and offensive tackle among many others, the Browns are 10-5 and entrenched in the first wild card spot in the American Football Conference. They have beaten division rival Baltimore, considered to be the best team in the conference if not the entire league.

Cleveland is thisclose to making the playoffs. The National Football League released the following scenarios that will secure the Browns a playoff berth in week 17.

The Browns clinch a playoff berth with:

1. CLE win or tie or

2. PIT loss or tie or

3. BUFF loss or

4. JAX loss or tie or

5. HOU loss or tie + IND loss or tie

Got all of that figured out? Of course, a win or tie tonight will simplify it all. Then long-suffering Browns fans can bask in their team making the playoffs for only the third time — with but a single win — since returning to the NFL in 1999.

Right now should it all play out, the Browns would visit Jacksonville in round one and play a team they beat a few weeks back. With a win there who really knows?

As improbable as this season has been– given the injuries including to a quarterback with the richest guaranteed contract in NFL history and playing in league’s toughest division — the Browns and their devoted fans can think about the improbable. Thoroughly enjoy this moment, fans. It hasn’t happened too often. You deserve it.