Browns: Keys to victory vs. Tennessee Titans

Unfortunately, the Titans offense matches up well against the Browns defense. They have a dual-threat quarterback in Mariota, who keeps the linebackers on their heels, a strong running game with DeMarco Murray, and a good passing game to their bigger targets, such as Delanie Walker. Against an undersized Cleveland secondary, this has potential to be a field day for Tennessee’s offense.

Related: Browns defense to face tough task against Titans run game

But there is a way for the Browns to get in the heads of the Titans and throw off their offensive balance. Simply put, Cleveland will have to shut down one element of Tennessee’s offense. If they make it their goal from the very beginning to shut down Murray and the running game, and they do so successfully, they open up flexibility for what defensive coordinator Ray Horton wants to accomplish. For instance, they may put Tennessee into clear passing situations, allowing the Browns to either send pressure or back eight defenders into coverage.

Cleveland allows the sixth-most passing yards per game, but only the 12th most rushing yards. This can be used to the Browns advantage, as they can focus on stopping Tennessee on first and second down as they have done relatively successfully in the past several weeks. Then, they can double team Tennessee’s big tight end, and shut down below average wide receivers on the edges.

Doing this requires many third-and-long situations, but it pays off if these can be created. Even though it is easier said than done, the Browns can indeed make the Titans’ offense one dimensional if they focus on stopping their rushing attack.