Cleveland Browns 2015: Predicting Every Game
By Paul Noel
Week 1: Cleveland Browns at New York Jets
The Browns and the New York Jets at this point seem to have the same philosophies for the 2015 season, namely run the ball and relying on a tough defense to bail out any offensive weaknesses they may have—particularly at the quarterback position.
There is now doubt at this point that the strength of the Jets is their defensive. The Jets already possess an impressive defensive front seven, but they went out an made a splash in free agency to build up the back half of the defense. On paper the Jets secondary looks like it could be one of the best in the NFL, taking on the montra “If we can’t score, then neither can you!”. The Jets added veteran cornerbacks Darrelle Revis, Antonio Cromartie and former Browns corner Buster Skrine.
The Browns will be well aware of the threat posed by the Jets defensive secondary, and likely will attack it on the ground (Isaiah Crowell/Terrance West) and attempt to stretch the secondary with Dwayne Bowe and Brian Hartline. If they can successfully do that throwing lane will open up for Andrew Hawkins and Taylor Gabriel on underneath routes.
This game is shaping up to be and old-fashion AFC North style game, where each team will look to grind it out on the ground. Either way, it should be a close game and very entertaining. I give the advantage to the Browns and QB Josh McCown to start the 2015 season with a rare opening day win.
Prediction: W, 17-10
Browns (1-0)
Next: Week 2: vs. Tennessee Titans