Browns' QB battle gets first real test against Bears

• Saturday's first preseason game could change the conversation — even if it doesn't settle it.

Driving the news: Deshaun Watson will start the 1pm preseason opener in Chicago and play the entire first half.

• Shedeur Sanders will take over in the second half, giving both quarterbacks a meaningful opportunity in the first game of head coach Todd Monken's tenure.

The setup lends itself to four potential scenarios:

Watson looks good

This is what Browns brass wants — proof the guy they gave a record-setting contract can still operate the offense at a high level after multiple Achilles injuries.

• Watson hasn't looked good in practice, but a sharp performance could change the perception that it's finally time for the team to move on from him.

Watson struggles, Sanders shines

If Sanders moves the offense efficiently and makes some big throws against Chicago, the questions surrounding Cleveland's quarterback decision will only get louder.

• It sets up an Aug. 22 home preseason game against the Bills — which Sanders will start — as a potential coronation.

Both play well

In Monken's ideal scenario, Watson and Sanders give the coaching staff legitimate reasons to keep evaluating both, making the next preseason game meaningful.

Both struggle

We're talking about the Browns. So, this is the most likely scenario.

• Still, it's one preseason game with a new offense and uncertainty on the offensive line. Don't panic.

The bottom line: Saturday probably won't determine Cleveland's starting quarterback, but it could change how everyone talks about the decision.