Cleveland Browns vs. Jets: Do we predict a Friday hangover?
By Randy Gurzi
Writer: Matt McFatridge
New York Jets at Cleveland Browns
Summary: Another week, another near victory for the Cleveland Browns, this time coming against the New Orleans Saints. If the team would have had a kicker that didn’t miss two field goals and two extra points, and you’d be talking about a hard-fought victory on the road in the Superdome. That is a feat that, even while coming up short, Browns fans should feel good about. They were a few bad plays from getting their first win since 2016.
The defense played lights out once again, forcing two turnovers by the Saints and limiting Brees and the explosive playmakers on the team. They came in with a game plan to slow running back Alvin Kamara and did a great job with that. The offense didn’t have much of a pulse, however, unable to capitalize on the turnovers and punts that their defense was forcing. Running back Carlos Hyde struggled to get going, as did quarterback Tyrod Taylor. His lone bright spot was bouncing back from a late interception — which led to the Saints score to take the lead — and completing a deep pass on fourth down to Antonio Callaway to tie the game. The extra point was missed by the since released kicker Zane Gonzalez, which let New Orleans drive down and win the game on a last-second field goal.
The New York Jets come to town, with both teams having a short week after playing on Sunday. All of the talk will be about Jets rookie Sam Darnold starting at quarterback and how Baker Mayfield is still sitting on the bench as the number one overall pick. Get ready for that to be discussed all day Thursday and Friday when the game is recapped.
Thursday provides us all a closer look at Darnold and how ready he really is to be an NFL starting quarterback. Defensively, Myles Garrett won’t be facing one of the top left tackles as he did in the Saints Terron Armstead. He will make his presence felt and force Darnold into some mistakes, which will allow rookie Denzel Ward and the other playmakers on this defense a chance to shine.
Next. 3 Bold predictions for Week 3. dark
Unfortunately, I still lack faith in this offense. Tyrod Taylor is too unwilling to push the ball downfield on a consistent basis to help open up lanes for his receivers and running backs. For that reason, I feel that the Jets will be able to overcome the offensive mishaps that Darnold may have, and find a way to win a tough game on the road.
Final Score: New York 24, Cleveland 18