4 Reasons the Cleveland Browns will beat the Raiders in Week 8

4. A Healthy Secondary

For the first time all season, Joe Woods finally gambled and brought the blitz on Sunday vs. the Cincinnati Bengals. At times it was extremely successful and rattled their rookie quarterback, and at other times the Bengals adjusted and got rid of the ball quickly and made big plays.

That is just the risk/reward of trying to get after the quarterback. And while it is frustrating to give up YAC (yards after catch), it’s even more frustrating as a fan to methodically watch a team move the ball up and down the field.

With Kevin Johnson (cornerback), Karl Joseph (safety), and Ronnie Harrison (safety) all healthy for the first time together all season, Woods finally trusted his man coverage. And let’s be honest, the Bengals made a lot of great throws and tough catches to put up points.

Look for the secondary to put up a tough fight vs. a solid Raiders passing game. The Browns must be careful to not let Darren Waller, the dangerous tight end, cover too much of the middle of the field. Expect Woods to once again turn up the heat to speed up the clock in Carr’s head.

Cleveland’s offense should be able to put up some points against the Raiders, but the Browns defense must get some stops. Yes, they just gave up 34 points to the Bengals, but there were areas of improvement. Look for the unit, especially the secondary to take a big jump and get the team a win headed to the bye.