5 Key matchups for the Cleveland Browns vs. Washington
By Greg Newland
3. Browns linebackers vs. running backs
One thing that has been constant for the Browns so far is poor linebacker play. The team was already hit hard with the injury to Mack Wilson, faced another set back with rookie Jacob Phillips getting hurt in the first half of Baltimore.
Free-agent B.J. Goodson has been okay vs. the run, but the team knew he was not meant to be on the field during passing downs. Second-year linebacker Sion Takitaki has been just okay as well. He has made a few plays, but still struggles with angles and is not great in coverage.
Through two games, the good news is the Browns have only given up 179 rushing yards. However, the Ravens and Bengals had so much success through the air, they never really needed to set the tone with a running game. But without a doubt, the improvement needs to be in the pass defense. Whether it’s getting to their drops in zone coverage or sticking tight to a running back coming out of the backfield.
The defense will receive a huge lift this week if Wilson is able to return. He was excellent in coverage last season and appears to be the vocal leader of the unit. Even if Wilson isn’t 100 percent healthy, he should pick up the play of others just with his presence.
As mentioned above, a full playbook with exotic blitzes will also help the unit make negative plays and gather some momentum. The good news for the Browns is Antonio Gibson and Peyton Barber haven’t been huge factors catching or running the ball so far this season. Look for this to be a week for the Browns linebackers to stand up to the challenge and prove doubters wrong.