Cleveland Browns: Grades from the disheartening loss to the Giants

Defensive Line: B

Surprisingly, there was a positive element of Sunday’s game. Defensively, the Browns impressed, as their valiant efforts kept the team in the game for most of its duration. This started with the defensive line, who held the Giants to 104 rushing yards and forced Eli Manning to throw the ball more quickly than he would have wanted to on numerous occasions.

In fact, the defensive line was so solid all around that Carl Nassib, Danny Shelton, Corey Lemonier, and Jamie Meder each ought to be commended. Each disrupted the passing game, and ended up with multiple tackles.

Most of all, there is something to be said for a unit who can get off of the field when they need to. In past weeks, third downs have been a big problem for the Browns. Getting off the field has been quite a challenge. This week, all of this changed.

While there is no real stat which can define the ability to get off the field when needed, the Browns had what it took today. Their defense buckled down when they needed to, all starting with the front three.