Cleveland Browns: Preseason Week 1 instant reactions
Defense Lived Up to the Hype
Especially on the defensive front, this widely-hyped Browns defense mostly lived up to that hype. Sure, Saquon Barkley broke a massive run on the game’s first play, which led to a Giants field goal. However, the Browns were able to improve their run defense in a major way after that, with a ‘bend but don’t break approach.’
More from Dawg Pound Daily
- How the Browns could maximize Nick Chubb in 2023
- Can Deshaun Watson get to Patrick Mahomes level for Cleveland Browns?
- 3 Cleveland Browns who should see an expanded role in 2023 and 1 who should not
- Is Marcus Davenport on the Browns radar in 2023?
- 5 Free agents from Super Bowl LVII Cleveland Browns should target
While not ideal, the Browns were able to keep opposing quarterback Eli Manning from doing much damage through the air. Manning’s time ended after linebacker Mychal Kendricks came busting through New York’s offensive line for a sack. Through it all, the Browns’ first-teamoffense was cool, calm, and…well, mostly collected.
The one major problem visible with this Browns defense is their penchant for penalties. It’s understandable, Browns defenders were naturally excited to hit someone not wearing orange and brown. But, come on, this should probably stop by the next game. Denzel Ward’s first NFL big hit probably felt incredible, but the taunting penalty is still very much a thing, now more than ever.
Overall, this Browns defense held strong throughout Eli Manning’s time on the field. The second team looked mostly fine throughout Davis Webb’s time, save for one drive, showing that this defense does have a bit of depth to it. Through it all, the defense showed swagger, major athletic chops, and most importantly, an ability to stop drives before it’s too late.