So who had Flacco versus Kenum when the season began as the QBs in this game? If so, what numbers are you playing for Powerball/MegaMillions?
If the Browns want to clinch that playoff spot today, it starts with the win today on Christmas Eve, 2023. With that said, here are the things Browns fans need to focus on as they watch today’s titanic struggle!
Away Defensive Problems
Is it too much to ask for a solid defensive performance on the road? The vaunted defense has allowed 30.7 points per game in away stadiums!
Here’s DC Jim Schwartz Thursday talking about the mentality.
Asked #Browns DC Jim Schwartz about the message to the defense as they look to win on the road—something the team has struggled to do this season.
He said it's about creating an "us against the world" mentality.
Here's his full answer: pic.twitter.com/srHsmqIKWr
— Camryn Justice (@camijustice) December 21, 2023
Need to see the group bring the intensity from the start. Being down Anthony Walker, Jr. will force more from the linebackers. Facing the old foe, Case Keenum, might be what this side of the ball needs. They are familiar with him from his time in Cleveland. Pressuring him up the middle could give Myles a feast day!
Offensive Line woes over?
Austin Janning, Cleveland Browns
Ethan Pocic and Joel Bitonio need to get back. Pocic was not on the injury report while the left guard was questionable with his cranky back.
The Texans defensive line is so similar to the 49ers, according to Bitonio’s interview this week.
“I think their front four is kind of the strength of their team and they rotate … They’re kind of similar to us!”
The edge defenders in Jonathan Greenard and rookie Will Anderson, Jr. have been outstanding. Greenard is at 12.5 sacks for the year. Anderson, the third pick in the NFL draft, is now the 19th ranked DE by PFF. Every major defensive category PFF grades has the Crimson Tide product at 70.0 or above. For a rookie? Dang!
Malik Collins, their inside rusher from Nebraska, is the elder statesman on the squad. If the Browns throw more than run, he will see time on the field since roughly two-thirds of his snaps are during pass attempts by the opposition. Collins and Greenard have 17.5 sacks between them and hurry many passes. The line needs to have another amazing day!
Don’t expect the Browns to run to set things up. It will be pass to set up the run.
Need to continue the Pass-Happy attack
Joe Flacco has saved this season. No doubt. Keeping him standing is a tall order today. He has thrown for over 300 yards in the last two games. Expect that stat to continue.
The key is to continue to pass it around. Eight different receivers versus the Jaguars and ten different against the Bears is forcing defenses to monitor anyone who goes out for the pass.
Quick passes and creative ways to get Njoku, Cooper and Moore the ball could push the Browns into the upper 30’s in points scored today.
Prediction?
I’m predicting a Browns win, 34-17 today. Expect a big run from Ford today. I also think we might see a special teams gem today! I think a punt return for a TD might be on the docket! Much like this guy used to do! Enjoy the game today, enjoy the Cribbs highlight reel, and Go Browns! (Please no injuries, please no injuries!)
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