Keys to a win over the Cincinnati Bengals

It seems like a generic and shallow key, but individual efforts on defense will be paramount in this Sunday’s matchup. The defensive line and linebackers especially will be called upon to slow down Jeremy Hill, Giovani Bernard and Rex Burkead. Even with a flawless game plan installed by defensive coordinator Ray Horton, some Cleveland defenders are going to need to have career performances if they expect to equal their success of the past two weeks.

This includes Danny Shelton, who has shown steady improvement over the last several weeks. Also, Jamie Meder, Stephen Paea and Xavier Cooper will need to have better performances. Normally pass rushers, these defenders will have to chip in against the run as well.

As for the linebackers, it is critical that they continue to record as many tackles as they have in past weeks, while improving the quality of their tackles and making sure they do not miss any. This means that Christian Kirksey, Demario Davis, Cam Johnson and rookie Joe Schobert will need to play an active role in defending the run, and rushing the passer. If these players can excel individually, everything will come together.

Of course, it is a team sport. And no doubt, this defense will have to continue to play better as a unit. But minimal holes can be filled at this level, and individual performances just have to get better for the Browns. They are a young team, especially on defense, but they will simply need stronger performances from players on defense to have a chance to win.