Cleveland Browns Week 16 studs and duds: Baker Mayfield in giving spirit
By Randy Gurzi
Cleveland Browns Stud: M.J. Stewart, CB
The Browns had an inspired performance on defense, holding the Packers to 24 despite the four turnovers — which led to 21 points. One of the big reasons was the play of defensive back M.J. Stewart.
Filling in for their absent players such as Greg Newsome II and Troy Hill, Stewart was all over the field and had 10 tackles with two for a loss. He stepped up as did many players on defense, but was let down by the offense.
It was the second week in a row he played this well and is proving that he’s up to the task, whenever called upon.
Cleveland Browns Dud: Pass protection
As good as Nick Harris was overall, the Browns offensive line was a problem on Saturday. That wasn’t unexpected considering they were down three starters.
J.C. Tretter was out as was Jedrick Wills and Jack Conklin. That meant Blake Hance was in at right tackle, Joel Bitonio moved from left guard to left tackle, and Michael Dunn was in at left guard — in addition to Harris in the middle.
That had a lot to do with Baker Mayfield being sacked five times, even taking away a shot at a field goal at one point. As good as they were in run blocking, they were equally as shaky when trying to give Mayfield time to operate.