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Cleveland Browns: 5 keys to beating the Eagles

By Jonathan Goehring

Aug 26, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Robert Griffin III (10) runs with the ball against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 26, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Robert Griffin III (10) runs with the ball against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 1, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns wide receiver Corey Coleman (19) is defended by Chicago Bears cornerback Sherrick McManis (27) during the first quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 1, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns wide receiver Corey Coleman (19) is defended by Chicago Bears cornerback Sherrick McManis (27) during the first quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports /

Despite what is expected to be a difficult rebuilding season for the Browns, their chances to be competitive in Sunday’s opener look very good. Still, even if Cleveland is efficient on both sides of the ball, they may not get the desired result without thinking outside of the box. The Browns must take a few well thought out risks in Philadelphia, and coach Jackson must find the right situations to coach aggressively.

Whether this is done through the wide-ranging special teams opportunities or by merely dialing up a trick play on offense, unpredictability should be a common theme this season. Taking risks is not limited to fake punts and flea flickers.

Often times, aspects of the game which some fans overlook are constantly evaluated based on willingness to take risks. For example, bringing an extra pass rusher on third-and-long, or going for a fourth-and-short near midfield. These decisions can lead to heavy scrutiny on a head coach if results are costly, but they can also help a team find an identity and gain confidence when most desperately needed.

In past seasons dating back to Pat Shurmur’s tenure in Cleveland, the Browns have been excruciatingly conservative with their play calling. As a new coaching staff enters, and the NFL continues to change into a big play league, the Browns must adapt and keep up with the rest of the league.

Next: 5 bold Browns predictions for 2016

Plus, the Browns have more to gain than they have to lose, and they have a roster compiled of inexperienced players who would welcome a boost in confidence. Fans should expect at the very least, a little bit more aggressive play calling from Hue Jackson on Sunday than they are accustomed to. A big play as a result of deception can make all the difference in a game which is expected to be tight, and a victory would make whatever strategy which was implemented well worth it.

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