Cleveland Browns: 5 keys to beating the Eagles

Though many different factors go into winning a football game, one of the most consistently revealing is the play in the trenches. The real battles occur where fans do not normally watch, on the offensive and defensive lines.

On Sunday, the Browns will need to establish their rushing attack first and foremost. This starts up front, as this young offensive line will have to grow up in a hurry and leave their preseason struggles behind. For the Browns, sealing the edge would be a good idea rather than picking gaps for running backs to run through in the middle of the line. This way, runs to the left can help cover up a poor offensive line, and left tackle Joe Thomas, a solid run blocker, can dictate and help the running backs.

If the Browns can somehow find success up the middle using the young core of their offensive line including center Cameron Erving, this will be welcomed. But if not, Hue Jackson and the offensive coaching staff must find ways to exploit Philadelphia’s below-average run defense early on in the game. This may include creative plays and angles that help the Browns gain some yardage.

Fans should look for Isaiah Crowell and Duke Johnson to have efficient first quarters. Though long touchdown runs may not be a possibility, the Browns running game needs to jump-start the offense and keep them ahead of the sticks. If they are able to do this, not only does play-action passing become an option later in the contest, the Browns will also be able to sustain drives and possibly jump to an early lead. They will also silence a rowdy Philadelphia crowd, a venue which always puts the opposition automatically at a disadvantage.

Next: Finish drives