Cleveland Browns: 5 keys to beating the Eagles

The Browns’ defense enters 2016 with a unique combination of uncertainty and optimism. The unit features plenty of promising rookies, most notably Carl Nassib and Emmanuel Ogbah. But how soon success culminates is still unknown, especially with a first-year defensive coordinator in Ray Horton.

But on the surface, it does appear that Sunday’s season opening matchup with the Philadelphia Eagles’ offense bodes well for an uncertain defense. The Eagles’ offensive line is mediocre, and they are starting a rookie who didn’t play at the FBS level in college. Not to belittle the second overall pick of this past NFL Draft, but there is clearly a void in experience at the position, as Carson Wentz will play his first NFL football.

The Browns need to take advantage early in the game, and not allow Wentz to gain confidence. They will do this by making a signature play on one of the first several possessions, whether it be forcing a turnover or altering field position significantly.

After making a statement early on, the Browns will gain an advantage over a Philadelphia offense struggling to find an identity. New head coach Doug Pederson is offensive-minded, and was even a former Cleveland quarterback. But like so many others in the organization, he is in his first year. Making an early statement in the first game of the year will set a tone which will be difficult for Philadelphia to reverse.

Next: Keep containment on Wentz