Browns Vs Titans: 5 Reasons for Optimism
Jul 26, 2013; Berea, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns defensive coordinator Ray Horton watches his defense during training camp at the Cleveland Browns Training Facility. Mandatory Credit: Ron Schwane-USA TODAY Sports
One of the other things the Browns have in common with the Titans is employing Ray Horton recently. Horton spent one year with the Browns, following his time with the Arizona Cardinals. He was let go after one season as Mike Pettine brought in his people. Ken Whisenhunt brought Horton in to be his defensive coordinator shortly thereafter.
Horton was considered a head coach candidate around the league when he was with the Cardinals. He interviewed for their job, which went to Bruce Arians, as well as the Browns job before accepting the DC job. Horton has a history of success but Browns fans and players have seen how hard it is to transition to his defense. He never made things simple for his players.
Compared to last year’s Browns Horton has less talent to work with this year. He will try to get the most out of that talent by being creative. While that can create some big plays it also tends to open things up for the opposing offense. Any time you are trying to compensate for something you tend to leave yourself out there.
For the Browns this will likely be evident on third downs. Last year time and time again on third downs Horton would rush an extra player and play off with his secondary. Based on tape of third down defenses with the Browns last year expect Kyle Shanahan to run a few players deep and then bring a receiver or a back underneath on a crossing route. This type of play led to first downs on short plays as well as 3rd and 23 type plays last year. Perfect for Andrew Hawkins, Taylor Gabriel and Ben Tate this week.