Studs and duds from Cleveland Browns playoff ending Week 16 loss
By Dan Justik
Dud: Freddie Kitchens
If there was ever a moment to seal Freddie Kitchens’ fate as if he will be the Cleveland Browns head coach in 2020, look no further than the end of the first half. Instead of the Browns leading into halftime or at least down one point, the Browns entered halftime down 14-6, with the Ravens getting the ball in the second half.
The Browns had the ball with just over two minutes left in the half and the Ravens having no timeouts. Instead of carrying a 6-0 lead into halftime, Kitchens decided to throw the football, giving the Ravens to stop the clock and have opportunities on offense, which is exactly what they took advantage of.
Kitchens still struggles with game management situations and taking what is given to him. Instead, he continues to try to push the issue to score points, putting the defense in a bad position that has generally led to points.
Whether it be play-calling or game management situations in general, Kitchens has not learned how to manage games. He does not seem to know what he wants to do in certain situations, and it puts the Browns at a disadvantage. If it was not clear already, Kitchens is over his head as the Browns head coach.