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Cleveland Browns: 5 keys vs. the Miami Dolphins

By Jonathan Goehring

Sep 18, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns cornerback Joe Haden (23) celebrates with Cleveland Browns cornerback Jamar Taylor (21) after a third quarter interception against the Baltimore Ravens at FirstEnergy Stadium. The Ravens defeated the Browns 25-20. Mandatory Credit: Scott R. Galvin-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 18, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns cornerback Joe Haden (23) celebrates with Cleveland Browns cornerback Jamar Taylor (21) after a third quarter interception against the Baltimore Ravens at FirstEnergy Stadium. The Ravens defeated the Browns 25-20. Mandatory Credit: Scott R. Galvin-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 18, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Baltimore Ravens running back Terrance West (28) is tackled by Cleveland Browns nose tackle Danny Shelton (55) and inside linebacker Chris Kirksey (58) during the second half at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 18, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Baltimore Ravens running back Terrance West (28) is tackled by Cleveland Browns nose tackle Danny Shelton (55) and inside linebacker Chris Kirksey (58) during the second half at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports /

Defensively, the Browns still need to find some answers to prevent collapses, such as the one which occurred last week in the home opener. There are several areas in which Cleveland’s defense needs to solidify its play, as it remains inconsistent at best, but the place to begin is on the interior of the defensive line.

Danny Shelton had arguably the best game of his career last week, but considering his menacing presence, he could leave an even bigger imprint on the game. The Dolphins will be without Arian Foster at running back and need to start Jay Ajayi. Even though he may not have the skill of Foster, Ajayi has a unique combination of speed and power. In order to combat this, the Browns’ defensive line must have a good game, especially Shelton in the middle.

In reality though, Miami’s most dangerous threats on offense are at the receiver position. DeVante Parker (who is questionable), Jarvis Landry and Kenny Stills are each capable receivers. Former Brown tight end Jordan Cameron is also a capable pass catcher, especially against the Browns, as they allowed over 100 yards to Baltimore’s tight end Dennis Pitta last week. In response to this, Cleveland must have a plan to pressure quarterback Ryan Tannehill. This begins on the defensive line.

If they were to disrupt the rhythm of Miami’s offense, Cleveland’s defense would be placed in a very favorable position to limit the chunk plays that the Dolphins are capable of. This is a critical improvement for the Browns to make if they were to begin to turn their season around on Sunday.

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