CLEVELAND, Ohio (WOIO) -The cheers weren’t the usual deafening cacophony at places like the Winking Lizard on St. Clair and East 9th Street downtown.
“We open at eight o’clock for Browns home games, big crowd usually, said Andrew Hunt, the manager. “I think it might slow it down a little bit in the morning.”
Some fans arrived late, straggling in after kickoff. And those that arrived early noticed the change to their game day routine.
“Your food choices don’t necessarily fall in line with, not going to have ham and eggs with your morning beer!” laughs Jeannette Dunaway, a Browns fan staying downtown after a visit to the Rock Hall.
“Feels like a college thing, a college noon kickoff back in the day,” said Evan Harcourt, walking into Dive Bar on West Sixth Street. “But, hey, we’re going to enjoy the Sunday morning.”
For many watching, however, the early start meant an extended day of football.
“For me, it’s early,” said Katie Hill from Huron, staying downtown after watching the Nate Bargatze show at Rocket Arena. “It’ going to be all day football. But It’s great.”
“I’m happy,” echoed her husband, Brian Hill. “It’s football from nine-thirty all day. That’s why I’m happy.”
“They’re out in London but Browns fans also come out and support no matter what,” said Jorge Colon, working at Dive Bar. “I know it’s a little bit early but hopefully some more people show up here soon.”
Some business districts like Lee Road in Cleveland Heights, had events to get people up and into the bars before noon. The Cleveland Heights Happy 5K & 10K filled the bars with runners who are also Browns fans.
“We’re hoping that people stick around and support their local businesses and support the Cleveland Brown,” said Andres Gonzales, the Happy Run organizer.
“The Browns are a good draw, a lot of fun,” said Mark Goyetche, tending bar at Kensington Pub. “Look what I got, nine-thirty in the morning, I’ll take it!”
It was the same story at New Heights Grill just down Lee Road.
“I didn’t expect a full bar, not at all today
An early kickoff meant early business
“It’s a win/win,” confirmed Goyetche.
Even in a loss.
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