Cleveland Browns: What to watch for in the “Replacement Bowl”
By Joel W. Cade
For all the questions on the offensive side of the ball, the questions on defense are significantly more severe. Not only are there personnel questions to be answered, there are actually schematic questions to be addressed.
The Browns starting defensive linemen played well into the fourth quarter last week against Tampa Bay. Among the packages and combinations, the Browns were experimenting with was the 4-3 defensive front. The Browns may be better suited up front to run a 4-3 defense with Danny Shelton playing defensive tackle, Emmanuel Ogbah at defensive end and Carl Nassib at defensive end.
Nassib has become a fan favorite playing with reckless abandon. His play is reminiscent of Danny Bateman’s crazy playing style.
This is the game to see players play out of their minds. Who will play themselves onto the team tonight and maybe even into the starting lineup?
Keep an eye on the strong safety position where Derrick Kindred has been stealing first-team reps away from Ibraheim Campbell. Also watch for the cornerback play as there are of couple of spots completely up for grabs.
The most interesting battles will come at linebacker. Undrafted free agent Dominique Alexander and seventh-round pick Scooby Wright have shown flashes. This will be their last chance to work their way on to the team.
Pay very close attention to special teams where most of these battles will be taking place.
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