Cleveland Browns: Keys to victory against the Giants
![Oct 30, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Josh McCown (13) throws a pass during the first quarter against the New York Jets at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports Oct 30, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Josh McCown (13) throws a pass during the first quarter against the New York Jets at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Fdawgpounddaily-com-2Ffiles-2F2016-2F11-2F9642666-josh-mccown-nfl-new-york-jets-cleveland-browns-850x560-102695498f41b3e2e3f9b9058cf13905b2eabae7699efdba724bddbdd93fff3a.jpg)
Offensively, the Browns clearly lack an identity. Too often, they fall far behind in a game, and their game plan goes out the window. This was especially evident last week, when 80 percent of their plays were passing plays.
This week, it is beyond time to get back to the basics and establish an identity. Of course, this means running the ball with Isaiah Crowell and Duke Johnson. This may be a challenge for Cleveland’s offensive line, but there is no other way to jumpstart the offense.
Of course, part of this comes down to the defense as well. The Browns can’t be persistent in the running game if they are quickly behind by multiple scores.
In the end, the Browns will need to throw the ball. There’s nothing wrong with ending up with more passing plays than running plays, as that is the team’s strength. But early in the game, to keep the defense honest, the offensive line needs to get some push and the Browns need several positive carries from their running backs.
This isn’t really asking for much, but it will undeniably be a challenge for a Cleveland team so incompetent on the ground. Though simple, if the Browns achieve this, they will be rewarded with a huge offensive boost.