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 /
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Nov 20, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Antonio Brown (84) runs through the Cleveland Browns defense during the second half at FirstEnergy Stadium. The Steelers won 24-9. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 20, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Antonio Brown (84) runs through the Cleveland Browns defense during the second half at FirstEnergy Stadium. The Steelers won 24-9. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports /

The Giants seem to be a bit of a feast or famine offense. On one hand, this gives the Browns hope. But on the other hand, it gives fans an uneasy feeling. After all, if the Giants are going to explode against anybody, it would make sense that it would be the Browns.

With that said though, slowing down New York’s inconsistent offense is simple. It may not be an easy task, but it is a simple formula.

What the Browns need to focus on, especially in their secondary, is jamming opposing receivers at the line of scrimmage. Making contact with them within the first five yards not only isn’t a penalty, it’s also the key to success.

In space, New York’s receivers are dangerous. Odell Beckham, Sterling Shepard, and Victor Cruz make up the three-headed monster known as the Giants’ offense. Even with a mediocre quarterback in Eli Manning, the loaded talent at the skill positions make the passing game very dangerous.

But their biggest asset is clearly speed. In fact, they lack size. In space, they may be dangerous, but if the Browns don’t allow them to get over the middle of the field, it won’t be a problem.

Last week, the cushion given to Pittsburgh receivers by Cleveland cornerbacks resulted in some chunk plays over the middle of the field. The Browns simply can not surrender so much space again. This week, doing so may prove to be even more devastating.