Cleveland Browns studs and duds from Week 10 victory over Bills
By Dan Justik
Stud: Denzel Ward
Denzel Ward did not have the best start to the game after being called for a defensive pass interference penalty. But after the penalty in the first quarter, Ward was creating problems for Josh Allen and the Bills receivers.
Ward was playing tight coverage and left few windows for Allen to throw into, despite Allen not being afraid to challenge the second-year cornerback. He finished the game making four total tackles and two passes defensed.
Although Ward allowed some receptions, most of them were typically short throws when Ward was in soft zone coverage. But when tasked with being put into press coverage, Ward was not letting the receivers gain any separation.
Despite being put into a defensive scheme that relies heavily on zone coverage, Ward is starting to get a feel for the defense and is beginning to make plays. After returning from his hamstring injury, Ward is showing glimpses of the cornerback he was during his rookie season.
Cleveland is not afraid to put their corners on islands and forcing them to make plays. Ward is starting to step up to the challenge and is not allowing many chunk plays. If Ward continues to play well, the Browns defense should continue to improve as well.