4 Keys to Victory for the Cleveland Browns
By Greg Newland
2. Improved defense
The Browns took a big step last week in slowing down the league-leading rusher Derrick Henry. However, keep in mind the Browns scored so fast the Titans were forced to throw the ball almost every play to even have a chance.
The defense must be even better this week. The front four must be disciplined to fill their gaps and the linebackers must shed blocks and fly to the ball carrier. Not only that, the front seven must be ready for the screens and quick passes that the Ravens run all too often. You can’t give up 25 yards on a 2-yard completion, you must force Jackson to throw the ball downfield.
On the backend, the secondary must be more disciplined. There’s hope that pro-bowler Denzel Ward can return which would be a huge boost, but if not, it must be the next man up. Last week the secondary gave up huge plays to wide-open receivers and then had silly personal fouls when they would finally make a play. Accuracy has always been a question mark for Jackson, so play the receivers tight and make him get rid of the ball quickly.
Look for the defense to be in more zone this week to try and keep Jackson from running which will create passing lanes and make it more difficult to blitz. The Browns will be okay if Myles Garrett and company can get some pressure on Jackson and make him force a couple of balls he doesn’t want to throw. If the Browns can get the Ravens in a hole early as they did in 2019 they will struggle to come back.