Cleveland Browns: Watch out for these 3 Raiders
By Joel W. Cade
Cleveland Browns need to watch Raiders DE Maxx Crosby
Maxx Crosby may be that good. He could be benefitting from playing opposite Yannick Ngakoue. Either way, Crosby has played well against both the run and pass.
He was recently named to PFF’s third quarter All-Pro team. Yet, he is not in the top-10 of any significant category. He does not have the sack or pressure numbers of Myles Garrett. But his play against inferior competition at tackle has allowed him to play dominant. It could even lead to a Pro-Bowl selection.
The Browns will be without both of their starting tackles this Saturday. Left tackle Jedrick Wills is on the COVID list with Jack Conklin on injured reserve. Swing tackle Chris Hubbard is already lost for the year with an injury. This leaves the Browns with OT Black Hance and 4th round draft pick James Hudson. Both Hudson and Hance have struggled to hold down the position.
The conditions are ripe for a big game for Crosby who was recently fined for landing on a quarterback after a sack. He will once again get to see single blocks against a backup as the Browns will be preparing for Ngakoue who is the superior rusher. It is good to play opposite a dominant player.
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Although he was limited on Tuesday in practice, he has been a full participant the rest of the week. He is expected to play on Saturday. Watch out for Crosby as the Browns will focus their attention on Ngakoue.