Cleveland Browns: Grades from the disheartening loss to the Giants

Offensive Line: F

As ugly as Sunday’s contest turned out to be, the ugliest aspect of the defeat was once again the play of the offensive line. For the twelfth consecutive week, the inability to provide running lanes for the running backs as well as the failure to protect the quarterback proved costly.

This week, the numbers weren’t as bad, but they can be deceiving. McCown was sacked seven times, costing the Browns 37 yards of real estate. But even more revealing, the 37-year-old was hit 25 times, on more than half of his dropbacks.

In the running game, the Browns’ running backs almost tripled their total yardage from last week. However, they still averaged under three yards per carry. Even the small creases which did open up were more a result of holes in the Giants’ defense. By no means was the offensive line ever controlling the line of scrimmage at any point.

Of course, the injury to John Greco interfered with the offensive rhythm. His replacement, Alvin Bailey, was responsible outright for two of McCown’s sacks, including the fumble returned for a touchdown by Jason Pierre-Paul, a defining moment.

The Browns are never going to get anywhere offensively until their line is solidified. This starts with coaching, but ends up being the responsibility of the linemen themselves. Until this poor play is turned around, the offense will be nothing short of inept.