3 Reasons Cleveland Browns fans should be concerned
By Greg Newland
Cleveland Browns Reason No. 2 for concern: Chemistry
Not only is the schedule brutal, but the chemistry on both sides of the ball also seems to be lacking still. On defense, the secondary continues to have multiple blown coverages per game that lead to at least one easy touchdown.
Last week, DeAndre Hopkins was left wide open in the end zone on a miscommunication, and we certainly can’t forget about the 3rd-and-21 play that led to a wide-open touchdown pass the Christian Kirk.
It’s frustrating because the defense will play so well for two series forcing a three and out or holding a team to a field goal, then all of a sudden, they will bust three coverages in a row and give up a touchdown. Safety, John Johnson, has been the communicator on the defense which should only help the secondary, but it has yet to show up.
It’s the same old story for the offense. Cleveland continues to have silly pre-snap penalties and looks better when Odell Beckham isn’t on the field. The biggest issue last week was the lack of help for the backup tackles. Too often James Hudson was left on an island and he didn’t stand a chance.
If Jedrick Wills and Jack Conklin are forced to miss more time, Kevin Stefanski will have to come up with a better protection plan for Mayfield. Tight ends and running backs must be utilized to make sure Mayfield has a chance to get the ball out.
I will say, the connection between Mayfield and Beckham was the best all season last Sunday, let’s hope that continues, but there’s also a chance both miss time with shoulder injuries.