Cleveland Browns: Storylines to watch vs. Miami Dolphins
The Browns offense will be at a severe disadvantage Sunday without veteran quarterback Josh McCown and rookie playmaker Corey Coleman. This means Isaiah Crowell must take lead of the offensive production for the team.
A week ago, the offense fed Crowell early and often and it sprung him to a long 85-yard touchdown run in the first quarter. Crowell finished the day with 18 carries for 133 yards and one touchdown. The Browns stayed committed to the run for most of the first half and it led to scoring three early touchdowns. In the second half, the Browns shied away from the run and it led to no points. If the Crowell and the run game can produce early, moving the chains frequently, it will give Cody Kessler a chance in the passing game.
Expect the Dolphins to stack eight or nine defenders in the box early with only one thing in mind, shutting down Crowell and the running game. However, Coach Jackson must stay committed to the run even if it seems to have little success early in the ballgame. The commitment to the run game will give Kessler a chance to play some plays off of play-action and roll outs. Getting Kessler comfortable on some simple read throws will be key for the offense. This is only possible if the Browns stay persistent running and Crowell fights for tough yardage in the trenches.
Another facet of the offense that must be utilized is Duke Johnson. The offense must create touches and incorporate him more into the game plan. Johnson is a fast, shifty playmaker and can be deadly with the ball in the open field. It would be wise for the team to feed Johnson as well on outside runs, screens and designed pass plays. Johnson is a change of pace back compared to the downhill run style of Crowell and will serve as another weapon to help aid the rookie quarterback in his debut.
If Crowell can pace the team offensively, with a ground and pound, control the clock approach, the Browns will have opportunities to win the game. If the Browns offense can rush over the 100-yard mark again, led by the Crow, it will take pressure off the Browns defense to win the game and take pressure off the rookie Cody Kessler. Kessler remains a huge wildcard in what kind of performance the team will get, but if the team can run effectively it will be a tough fought game.