Instant reactions to Cleveland Browns Week 12 victory over the Dolphins
By Dan Justik
Browns depleted defense shows its limitations
The Cleveland Browns defense was without five starters on Sunday due to injuries and suspensions (not including the loss of Christian Kirksey from earlier in the season), putting the defense in a tough position against Miami.
The unit was playing outstanding during the first half, as the front four took control of the line of scrimmage and the linebackers and defensive backs were playing tight coverage all over the field.
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But after halftime and the Dolphins made adjustments, they were moving the ball down the field against the Browns, and they did so virtually without a run game. Ryan Fitzpatrick was comfortable in the pocket and was getting chunks of yardage on almost every throw. There were also problems in the secondary, giving Fitzpatrick open throws.
A big reason for Fitzpatrick’s success in the second half was because of the lack of a pass rush from the Browns defensive line. Without three of their four starters, it was expected they’d struggle generating a pass rush. But unless they brought a blitz, the Browns allowed Fitzpatrick to sit in the pocket and move through his reads.
The defensive line also had trouble containing Fitzpatrick, allowing him to move out of the pocket and gain yards on scrambles, especially during critical moments on third down or in the red zone. Fitzpatrick rushed for 28 yards and a touchdown on four carries.
It is well-known the Browns will miss Myles Garrett, but not having Olivier Vernon and Larry Ogunjobi created even more problems. It’s clear they need Vernon healthy and to return to the field to finish the season to generate some type of pressure off the edge. And even though he is having a down season, Ogunjobi’s presence next week will be a needed boost for the Browns defense.