Cleveland Browns blueprint to victory vs. Las Vegas Raiders in Week 15
By Greg Newland
Cleveland Browns Blueprint No. 2: Play aggressive on defense
As you sit and look at who the Browns will have available on Sunday, there is a very good chance you see a lot more three-linebacker sets with Jacob Phillips and Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah on the field together with Anthony Walker. With John Johnson and Troy Hill likely out, Ronnie Harrison, Grant Delpit, and Greedy Williams will have to step up.
What’s even more concerning is that Greg Newsome has yet to get through concussion protocol either. That means a guy like AJ Green who has seen limited snaps will not only be on the field, he will likely oversee Hunter Renfrow.
It will be very easy for Joe Woods to be passive and just try to hold the Raider to field goals, but I think he needs to do the exact opposite. Utilize Jadeveon Clowney, Myles Garrett, Phillips, and JOK to get after the passer.
Don’t be afraid to play tight coverage and don’t give Derek Carr a chance to ever get in a rhythm. This sounds like a bold strategy, but I’m fine giving up a big play or two in order to make Carr uncomfortable.
In my opinion, the best way to get guys who aren’t used to playing comfortably is to play fast and not give them a chance to overthink. Wood’s has chosen to not be overly aggressive this season, but that needs to change on Saturday.