6 Studs and Duds for the Cleveland Browns in playoff-clinching win

Stud: Defensive Line

While the defensive line played lights out on Sunday, there is some bad news as an injury to Olivier Vernon’s ankle appears to be serious. But other than that, the entire group played lights out today. Although Vernon was the only one to end the game with a sack, Adrian Clayborn and Larry Ogunjobi did a great job of getting pressure.

With a limited secondary, Joe Woods chose to not blitz, and the front four did a great job of making Rudolph uncomfortable. And then the one time he did blitz it turned into an interception which later turned into a touchdown.

The biggest difference this week was the plays made at the line of scrimmage in the run game. Yes, the Steelers have been bad running the ball the last 8 weeks, but I’m still extremely excited to see that trend continue as the Browns can often struggle. The defensive line accounted for 11 tackles and two of those from Vernon were for a loss.

Another play that comes to mind that so often isn’t stopped by the Browns is the end around to a receiver. Myles Garrett stayed in position and was able to force the runner out at the line of scrimmage. Too many times this season that particular play has gone for 20 plus yards vs. the Browns.

Let’s hope the MRI on Vernon is negative and he is back to full strength, but Porter Gustin and Clayborn will have to step up next week if not. The Browns must control the line of scrimmage to have a chance of stealing a playoff victory in Pittsburgh.