Cleveland Browns instant reactions to first playoff win since 1994

The defense has its work cut out for them

Throughout this season, the Browns defense has been frustrating to watch. This game was no exception, even with all the early turnovers.

Take those five takeaways out of the game and they were simply frustrating to watch. They allowed Big Ben and the Pittsburgh offense to move at will and while it’s easy to say the hopeful return of Denzel Ward will help, the fact is, they need much more than just the talent No. 21 brings to the table as they get ready to face the high-flying Kansas City Chiefs in the Divisional Round of the NFL Playoffs.

Roethlisberger is going to be in the Hall of Fame, but it was clear he was not at his best in this one as the defense struggled with him when they did need a stop. Patrick Mahomes, on the other hand, is playing his best football right now as he looks to defend his NFL title. He’s not turning the ball over with four picks and if the game is on the line in the fourth, he’s not telegraphing one to Sione Takitaki to seal the game.

Of course, this Cleveland team has proven they can never be counted out and the tired saying of ‘same old Browns’ needs to be put to rest. But that doesn’t mean they don’t have their work cut out for them next week against the champs.

Even so, let’s all celebrate the fact that there is a next week. The Cleveland Browns just won a playoff game. Enjoy it Dawg Pound.