Cleveland Browns: How bad was the OL vs Buccaneers?
By Joel W. Cade
The Browns’ struggles in pass protection of Robert Griffin III revolved around miscommunication and poor protection by the tackles. Pasztor and France struggled mightily to slow down edge rushers.
The slide protection technique is a difficult one to master. Joe Thomas makes it look so easy. In contrast, France and Pasztor make it look impossible.
The Browns may want to consider using dish pass protection (the style the New York Jets employ) with France and Pasztor. Or at the very least, allow Pasztor and France to take an aggressive set. Both are successful in run blocking when playing aggressive. Allow them to aggressively engage defenders in pass protection. It is an older approach to pass blocking but still effective.
The Browns could also improve their pass protection by staying out of third-and-long situations.
Not all five sacks can be put at the feet of the offensive line. The first two sacks were the result of Griffin sliding after escaping the pocket. Technically they were sacks, but they are not what fans think of when they hear the word “sack.”
The final three can be put on the offensive line. France and Pasztor have a lot of room to improve. The guards and center protected well outside of the one miscommunication leading to a free runner to the quarterback.
Next: Which WRs make final roster?
The communication can be fixed. Joe Thomas returning to left tackle resolves another issue. However, the right tackle position needs addressed in a serious way. One has to wonder if it would be better to sacrifice on run blocking to get help with pass protection. Or maybe a return to the quick passing game is in order.