Browns vs. Dolphins instant reactions: Reality hits as Miami bullies Cleveland in Week 10
By Randy Gurzi
The Cleveland Browns were flying high after a win over Cincinnati sent them to the bye week but the Dolphins sent them crashing to earth
In Week 8, the Cleveland Browns scored a huge win on Monday Night Football against the Cincinnati Bengals. They then spent a week preparing for the Miami Dolphins with a renewed sense of hope that they could turn things around.
They even took an early 7-0 lead as the offense looked ready to roll with Jacoby Brissett throwing it deep to Donovan Peoples-Jones before capping off the drive with a touchdown pass to Harrison Bryant.
Unfortunately, it was all Miami after that as the Dolphins dominated in every facet of the game en route to a 39-17 win.
53. 39. 59. Final. 17
Cleveland falls to 3-6 on the season and it feels as though any hope of the postseason has gone out the window. — of course, even before this one, they were going to need a lot of help to make that happen.
Browns offensive line was bullied all day
The most surprising thing about this loss had to be the way Cleveland’s offensive line was bullied by Miami. Even with the losses heading into this one, the Browns have felt good about their O-line’s chances against anyone in the league.
This weekend, however, they couldn’t handle the trio of Christian Wilkins, Melvin Ingram, and Bradley Chubb. Those three were pressuring Jacoby Brissett all game and shut down the rushing attack for the most part. The Dolphins even forced a turnover from Nick Chubb, which almost never happens.
Chubb did run a 33-yard touchdown late but was averaging roughly three yards per carry before that.
Things won’t get easier from here
As tough as this loss was, the Browns don’t have it any easier in the next two games. They head to Buffalo to take on the Bills next week followed by a home game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers who are finally playing the way we expected them to following a slow start.
After those games, Cleveland will have Deshaun Watson eligible but it might be too late for him to lead them on a run.
