Browns Preview 10/27/17: Minnesota Vikings @ Cleveland Browns, In London

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The Cleveland Browns and the Minnesota Vikings travel to England to play their game this week. The Browns still winless on the season after losing in overtime to the Tennessee Titans. The Browns will also be without Joe Thomas in the starting lineup for the first time since the 2006 season. Kevin Shaffer was the last guy not named Joe Thomas to start at left tackle for the Browns. The Vikings are leading the NFC North with a 5-2 record.


Browns Offense vs Vikings Defense

The Browns will be starting DeShone Kizer at quarterback after benching him in the second half of last weeks game. The Browns game plan this week is pretty simple, protect the ball. Kizer needs to take care of the ball especially in the redzone. The Browns will start Spencer Drango at left tackle in place of Joe Thomas this week.

The Browns running game is probably the most important key to the game this week. The Browns need some type of a running game to protect Kizer from throwing the ball too much. In my opinion Duke Johnson should get the majority of the carries but that's unlikely because we know Hue Jackson likes to run Crowell instead. Johnson and tight end David Njoku need to be on the field more and those are the only two consistent playmakers Kizer has had this year.



Browns Defense vs Vikings Offense

The Browns will be without Myles Garrett who is suffering from a concussion. The Browns could be without Jabrill Peppers and Jason McCourty this week too.

The Browns will be going up against Case Keenum this week. The goal for the Browns defensively is to limit Adam Thielen. Thielen is one of the leading receivers on the year. If the Browns can limit him and force Keenum to dink and dunk his way down the field the Browns defense could have a pretty good day. The Vikings running game isn't really a threat after rookie Dalvin Cook injured his knee and is out for the season.

The Browns are going to have a tough time getting pressure on Keenum and forcing him into bad throws so I almost expect for them try and force him into quick throws like they did week one against Pittsburgh.




Five Guys to Watch


1. DeShone Kizer: This one is pretty simple. Like every other week he starts he is the number one guy fans should watch. Kizer hasn't really developed as we all hoped and with the injury to Joe Thomas he will probably get hit a lot more.

2.  Duke Johnson: Johnson is the only dynamic playmaker on the team. It is inexcusable that Johnson doesn't get the ball more. I say this every week. Duke needs to be the number one running back going forward for this team.

3. Carl Nassib: With Garrett out this week Nassib will be starting in his place. Nassib has played okay when Garrett was out. The Browns need him to get pressure on Keenum in order to create a potential turnover.

4. Jamar Taylor: With McCourty being questionable this week Taylor is the number one corner again this week. Taylor did a good job last week against the Titans but with have a tough challenge this week with the weapons the Vikings have.

5. Any Receiver: The Browns need one of their receivers this week to step up. Britt has been a cancer on this team, but if Bryce Treggs or Kasen Williams can have a decent game hopefully it will be something Kizer and his receivers can build upon.


Injuries

Weather


Prediction: Vikings 35 Browns 10

With a potential blowout in England, Hue Jackson going 1-23 in his tenure, and the bye week next week this could be Hue Jackson's last game as the Browns head coach. Unless the owner and front office come out and say we are going to keep Hue Jackson for the rest of the season and go into 2018 with Hue also. This upcoming bye week could be interesting for a number of reasons. A fired head coach and/or a potential new hire to the front office...Stay Woke.

Browns Preview 10/20/17: Tennessee Titans @ Cleveland Browns

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The winless Cleveland Browns host the Tennessee Titans this Sunday. The Browns will be starting rookie Quarterback DeShone Kizer. Kevin Hogan played terrible last week and sustained a rib injury. Cody Kessler will be Kizer's backup this week. The Titans will be starting Marcus Mariota after coming back from an injury last week in which he played well. The Titans defeated the Colts last week 36-22 to give themselves a 3-3 record.


Browns Offense vs Titans Defense

There is no question the Browns offense has had its struggles in the first six weeks of the season. The issues are simple. Inconsistent quarterback play, the lack of weapons at receiver, and Isaiah Crowell. The Browns this week and going forward should do a few things different.

First, get Duke Johnson more touches. Whether it is 15 rushes and another seven targets in the passing game. Duke Johnson need the ball. His the only reliable playmaker on this team. Now that doesn't mean Hue Jackson shouldn't use Crowell. Crowell should be used when they are running the ball straight up the middle in between the tackles.

The Browns offense also might want to tone it down with the deep ball. I understand the lack of playmakers makes it hard build drives but getting Kizer in second or third and long doesn't help anyone. With that being said, Kizer is still going to have to throw the ball down field to keep the defense honest.   

The final major key for the Browns this week is to trust Kizer. I know that might seem a bit difficult but Hue Jackson has no choice. The benching of Kizer was a knee-jerk reaction. And playing Hogan after a terrible first half was pain stubbornness by Hue. What ever happens Kizer needs to play through it. Yes, it could be another Baltimore game where he throws multiple interceptions but this was the hand Hue was dealt and how he played it.

The Titans defense is a middle of the road defense. This easily could be the week Kizer has a breakout game. But in order for the Browns offense to run their gameplan the Browns defense will need to keep the game close.



Browns Defense vs Titans Offense

The Titans will have Mariota at quarterback but is unlikely to have running back DeMarco Murray. Derrick Henry will likely get the start for the injured Murray. Henry and Murray have identical stats, both running for over 300 yards so far. Henry ran for 131 yards last week against the Colts and Mariota threw for 306 and one touchdown.

The Browns secondary might have some struggles against the receivers of the Titans. Rishard Matthews is their leading receiver with veteran Eric Decker lined up opposite of him. Where the Browns will have issues is covering Delanie Walker, who leads the Titans in catches.



Five Guys to Watch


1. DeShone Kizer: Kizer was benched last week and he had to suffer like the rest of us through a terrible game last Sunday. Hopefully Kizer response positively. And again let's all remember the kid is only 21 years old and has only played in three full games as crazy as that sounds.

2. Jamar Taylor: While Jason McCourty is having a really good year, Jamar Taylor on the other hand hasn't. The Titans will probably target Taylor most of the day and with Taylor dealing with an injury this could be bad news for the Browns.

3. Myles Garrett: With all the speculation of a new front office taking over and them constantly passing on franchise quarterbacks, the pick of Garrett at one has been a home run. Garrett in two games has put pressure on opposing quarterbacks, forcing turnovers and sacks. Garrett is one of the lone bright spots so far this season and he's only played in two games.

4. Duke Johnson: Like stated above, Johnson needs to get the ball a lot more. Of all the things I've had issues with offensively this season the limited touches by Duke is number one. He's the only guy on the field who can take a screen pass or a drag route for a touchdown. He's the lone playmaker on this team the Hue need to feed Duke more.

5. David Njoku: Outside of Johnson, Njoku has been a surprise. A lot of fans didn't think he would make this type of an impact on the team this early. But with is ablity to out run linebackers and out jump safeties, Njoku should be Kizer's favorite target this week in the redzone after have a lot of redzone issues the first five weeks of the season.


Injury Report

Weather Report

Betting Line (As of 10/19/17): Tennessee -6



Prediction: Titans 27 Browns 14

The Browns will fall to 0-7 on the year this week. It will become more and more difficult to defend Hue Jackson as season moves on. I expect Kizer to play better than he has but the lack of playmakers will really show this week. The defense should keep the game close but again like they have in weeks before give up a touchdown drive to put the game out of hand late in the fourth quarter.

Browns Preview 10/13/17: Cleveland Browns @ Houston Texans

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE


The winless Cleveland Browns travel to Houston to take on the (2-3) Texans this week. The Browns will be starting a new quarterback this week. Kevin Hogan gets the start in place of the struggling DeShone Kizer. The Texans could be without four starters on their defense and JJ Watt is out for the season with a broken leg. The Texans will start rookie quarterback Deshaun Watson, who the Texans traded up in the draft (with the Browns) to acquire.


Browns Offense vs Texans Defense

The Browns will be starting their 28th different quarterback since returning in 1999, and Hue Jackson will be on his fifth different starter since week one of last year. Kevin Hogan will be under center for the Browns this week. In three games this season, Hogan has thrown three touchdowns and two interceptions. But more importantly, he has a 68.4% completion percentage vs Kizer's 51%.

This week the Browns must rely on the run this week and it should be headlined by Duke Johnson. Johnson is averaging almost five yards per carry and is the leading receiver for the Browns, with 23 catches. Isaiah Crowell has struggled this year. He seems to have issues when he gets the ball on stretch plays. And even when he has gotten running room it seems like he misses the hole or the run blocking doesn't hold up. It should be interesting to see the snap count for each back at the end of this game. Also the Texans can't forget about Hogan as a runner. Hogan is someone who can run a read-option effectively. Last season Hogan ran for over 100 yards after replacing Cody Kessler against the Bengals.

The receiving situation will be interesting this week. Kenny Britt is expected to be back, along with Sammie Coates. But it does seem like Hogan and rookie tight end David Njoku have a lot of chemistry. Two of Hogan's touchdown passes were to Njoku including one last week in relief of Kizer. Ricardo Lewis was the leading receiver last week with five catches for 71 yards. With Britt on a snap count, Lewis will probably get the majority of the snaps.



Browns Defense vs Texans Offense

Contrary to the 0-5 record, the Browns have a top five defense in the NFL. On the other hand...the Texans have been good in their own right. They don't pass the ball as much, ranked 20th in yards per game, but they hold onto the ball and run the ball with a lot of success, ranked 4th in rushing yards per game.

Rookie Deshaun Watson has thrown 12 touchdowns and only four picks this season. He also has almost 200 rushing yards on the season and two rushing touchdowns. Watson's top target is DeAndre Hopkins. Hopkins leads the Texans in catches with 35 and second on the team is Lamar Miller with 12. So the Browns desperately needs to shut down Hopkins this week in order to have success.

Miller is the leading rusher for the Texans with 331 yards and one touchdown. They also use rookie D'Onte Foreman who has 148 yards on the year and is averaging 3.8 yards per carry.

The Browns will have Jamie Collins back after missing the last three weeks with a concussion. The Browns defense will be a full strength for the first time this season. It should be interesting to see how everything plays out for the Browns and Gregg Williams.





Five Guys to Watch


1. Kevin Hogan: Hogan is making his first career start this week. Honestly I don't really know what to expect from Hogan besides him running the ball at times and throwing to Njoku.

2. David Njoku: Speaking of Njoku, he seems like an obvious guy to highlight this week. Hogan is comfortable throwing the ball his way and Njoku has come up big at times for the Browns in his young career.

3. Isaiah Crowell: I think this might be Crowell's last chance before he gets demoted to RB2. The Browns are going to run the ball a ton this week and Crowell is needed for this offense to have any sort of success. If he doesn't, Duke Johnson becomes the starter sooner rather than later.

4. Jamie Collins: Collins is one of the best linebackers in the league. Paired with Kirksey and Schobert the Browns should have more than enough to limit the running game of Houston's.

5. Myles Garrett: Speaking of helping the running game, Garrett playing more snaps this week is going to help too. Also with the Texans offensive line struggles, Garrett will need to capitalize on it in order to limit big plays from DeAndre Hopkins.


Weather Report

Injury Report

Betting Line: Houston -9.5


Prediction: Houston 20 Browns 14

The Browns fall to 0-6 and Hue Jackson record falls to 1-21 as the Browns Head Coach... All in all I think this team plays well but the limitations at quarterback and receiver will show its head this game. Hopefully I'm wrong again and the Browns end up helping themselves out by defeating the Texans.

Browns Preview 9/22/17: Cleveland Browns @ Indianapolis Colts

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

In week three of the NFL season the (0-2) Cleveland Browns travel to Indianapolis to take on the
(0-2) Colts. Last week the Browns lost 24-10 to the Ravens. The Colts lost to the Cardinals 16-13 in overtime. The Colts are without Andrew Luck and will be starting Jacoby Brissett, who they acquired from the Patriots in the preseason.


Browns Offense vs Colts Defense

The Browns offense has struggled in the first two weeks. The Browns running game isn't were it should be and it might struggle again this week. The Browns are 25th in the league in rushing and the Colts defense is ranked seventh stopping the run. Isaiah Crowell needs to improve going forward or his carries will likely decrease going forward. The Browns need some type of a running game to get going in order to project Kizer and the lack of weapons in the passing game.

Just like the previous two weeks, Kizer needs to get the ball out a lot quicker and make better decisions. Last week Kizer threw three picks and had a fumble. Fortunately for him this week, the Colts defense gave up over 300 yards passing in the first two weeks. So this might be a great time for Kizer to have a breakout game and notch his for career victory.

But it's not just on Kizer. The receivers have struggled in the first two weeks also. And with Corey Coleman out for the next eight weeks, the Browns need someone to step up like Rashard Higgins did last week. Kenny Britt is the elder-statesman of the group and has to prove he's worth his contract. Ricardo Lewis has played well at times but has his issues like any young receiver. And guys that were brought in to make an impact, Sammie Coates and Kasen Williams need to play more of a role. Hopefully with more reps with Kizer and knowing the playbook they can see an increase of a role on offense. And let's not forget that the Browns signed Jordan Leslie to the practice squad this week, and he could potentially be brought up to the active roster before Sunday's game.



Browns Defense vs Colts Offense

The Colts and Browns offense vs defense are basically identical. The Colts are going with a young quarterback in Jacoby Brissett who is basically their long-term backup going forward when Andrew Luck gets healthy. The Colts passing game hasn't been good to start the year. Heck, the Colts are already on their second quarterback to start the young season, Scott Tolzien started for them week one against the Rams. Last week Brissett only averaged 5.8 yards per attempt going 20/37 from the field for 216 yards and an interception.

Don't sleep on the weapons Brissett has at his disposal. T.Y. Hilton is a top receiver in the league. Jack Doyle is a solid tight end, and in the slot a combination of Donte Moncrief and Kamar Aiken could give the Browns defense some fits. There is also some speculation that number one overall pick Myles Garrett could make his season debut this week. He is out of a walking boot and riding the stationary bike during practice. The Browns could be without linebacker Jamie Collins who is in the NFL's concussion protocol.

The running game for the Colts is non-existent. Frank Gore is their leading back at 34 year old and has 88 yards in two games. The Colts also use former Brown Robert Turbin out of the backfield and rookie Marlon Mack to spell Gore at times.



Five Guys to Watch

DeShone Kizer: Kizer had a terrible game last week. It's just that simple. This week is another week for him to prove himself again. To show everyone he can rebound after a terrible start and play well against a team that is beatable.

Duke Johnson: Johnson returned to the backfield last week after spending week one in the slot as a receiver. With a lot of talk of Crowell wanting carries to prove himself, don't sleep on Duke Johnson. If Crowell can't get the job done, it might be time for the Browns to give Johnson more carries going forward.

James Burgess Sr: This one is pretty simple. If Jamie Collins can't go this week, Burgress is inline to start in place of him. Burgess has played fairly well in the first two week and maybe this an opportunity to show the Browns who he is.

I don't really have five specific players to watch this week, so I am combining number four and five and just saying the wide receivers in general. Someone needs to step up. Whether its Kenny Britt, Sammie Coates, or one of the young guys. The Browns lack of receivers aren't helping Kizer at all.


Weather Report: It doesn't matter...The Colts play inside...

Injury Report: 

Betting Line (As of 9/21/17): Browns -1.5


Final Prediction: Browns 17 Colts 14

Yes, I'm picking the Browns again this week. I think Kizer will do just enough to keep the Browns ahead but it is going to be the defense making a big play and either scoring points or setting up the Offense with a short field. Also I think Hue Jackson's playcalling will be improved this week because the Browns won't have to play from behind as much, if at all, this week.

Browns Preview 9/15/17: Cleveland Browns @ Baltimore Ravens

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The (0-1) Cleveland Browns travel to Baltimore to take on the (1-0) Ravens. Last week the Browns lost to the Steelers 21-18. The Ravens defeated the Cincinnati Bengals 20-0. In their game against the Bengals the Ravens forced five turnovers, so going into week two the Browns will need to limit the turnovers.


Browns Offense vs Ravens Defense:

The Browns passing game is most likely going to attack Ravens defensive back Brandon Carr. Carr isn't the player he once was. Corey Coleman is someone who has played really well since training camp began. Coleman last week caught all five passes thrown to him and he and quarterback DeShone Kizer already have some chemistry. So look out for the Browns to put Coleman in situations where he is matched up with Brandon Carr. The Ravens also like to use three safeties during passing downs. Moving Lardarious Webb to the nickle and playing veteran Eric Weddle and Tony Jefferson at "free/strong safeties". It should be interesting to see how the Browns counter this week. Last week we seen a lot of Duke Johnson in the slot, heck Johnson didn't even get a carry. Its going to be interesting to see if the Browns change Johnson's role week-to-week.

The Browns offensive line has to do a better job run blocking this week. Isaiah Crowell couldn't get separation last week and only rushed for 33 yards on 17 carries. That has to improve going forward. Hue Jackson isn't too worried about it, but with a rookie quarterback, you don't want to throw the ball more than you have too. And with the Ravens' pass rush lead by future hall of famer Terrell Suggs the Browns need to keep the Ravens honest with the run game.

The last thought on the offense is DeShone Kizer. He's going up against another extremely physical defense. It wouldn't be surprising if we see a couple late hits on the quarterback call like we did last week. Kizer has to play smart. Throw the ball away if nothing is open down field, slide while scrambling, and remembering that the check down is your friend.



Browns Defense vs Ravens Offense:

I really like this match up for the Browns. Yes, the Ravens played well last week , but the Browns defense is way better than Cincinnati's.  Last week the Ravens capitalized off of a turnover for one of their touchdowns, and the second was 48 yard pass to Jeremy Maclin on a drag route. The Browns last week did a great job limiting the deep ball. Yes, Antonio Brown got his...and yes it was on fluke plays but that's why AB is the best receiver in the NFL. Outside of the Maclin throw, Joe Flacco was 8/16 for 73 yards and an interception. I don't think passing game is going to kill the Browns this week like it did last week.

And the running game for the Ravens will be their strength. Former Brown Terrance West ran for 80 yards on 19 carries and Javorius Allen rushed for 71 yards on 21 carries. While having success last week against the Bengals, it isn't a for gone conclusion they will have success this week. The Browns limited the Steelers to 35 yards on the ground. Le'Veon Bell ran for 32 of the 35 on 10 rushes. The Browns defense is for real. And the key for them is to limit the running game and force Joe Flacco into turnovers...which is basically the key for the Raven's defense against the Browns offense.



Five Guys to Watch:

Joe Schobert: Schobert was one of a handful of guys to play every snap on defense last week. As the "mike" linebacker, Schobert is the "quarterback" of the defense. The position change during the off-season seems to have jump started his career after being a special teams/pass rushing specialist in his rookie year.

Duke Johnson: As I mentioned above, it's going to be interesting to see how Hue Jackson uses Johnson week-to-week. I wouldn't be surprised if we see him get 10-12 carries this week and a couple of catches, but this time lined up in the backfield where he's more comfortable.

DeShone Kizer: Kizer will be on this list every week. Its that simple. Kizer is potentially the quarterback of the future...so how can he not be one of the five guys to watch each week.

Ricardo Louis: Louis had a pretty good game last week. Yes, he only had two catches. But he was getting open and that's all you can ask for on a team with a lack of playmakers at wide receiver. Louis even came back last week from a nasty hit and caught a pass that put the Browns into scoring position.

Jabrill Peppers: I wasn't sure who my last "guy to watch" would be. So I picked the exciting playmaker Jabrill Peppers. I wouldn't be surprised if we see Peppers in for a couple plays on offense this week. *insert thinking emoji  Peppers playing "center field" with Joe Flacco at quarterback is exciting because we all know Flacco is known to take shots down field and with the ball-hawking skills Peppers has...it seems like the perfect opportunity for Peppers to get his first career interception.

Weather Report

Injury Report

Betting Line (As of 9/14/17): Baltimore -8

Prediction: Browns 24 Ravens 17





Call me crazy but I think the Browns will leave Baltimore with a 1-1 record. Kizer proved in one game that he gives the Browns an opportunity to win and that's all you can ask for with a rookie quarterback. But the Defense for the Browns will win this game. They will force the Ravens into turnovers and give the offense a short field. The running game for the Browns should be improved from last week which is why when they are given the lead they won't blow it like in years before.

Cleveland Browns 2017 Season Preview: The Running Backs

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE


**PREVIOUS**
The Coaching Staff


The 2017 Cleveland Browns are going to emphasis the running game. Last season they were a run heavy team during the first handful of weeks, until injuries on the offensive line and an inconsistent defense forced them to change their strategy.

Even with the struggles during last season, Starting running back Isaiah Crowell finished with 952 yards on only 198 attempts. That evens out to a 4.8 yards per carry average which was top 10 in the NFL last season. This year, Hue Jackson wants to give Crowell the ball as much as possible since he fell just short of a 1000 yard season.. Its also a free agent year for Crowell. He was looking for a long-term deal with the Browns this off-season but the Browns just tendered him for one year at about 3 Million Dollars this season. So Crowell has a ton to prove to the Browns and the entire league in order for him to get the pay day he strives for. What's interesting about Crowell, in his entire career he's never had a game where he was given 20 or more carries. Hopefully with more opportunities this season, Crowell can make himself a household name.

Duke Johnson will be the backup running back to Crowell this season. But as Browns fans know, Johnson is extremely valuable to this team in both the running game and the passing game. While not getting a high number of carries last season (only 73 attempts) but he still averaged 4.9 yards per carry. Johnson is a change of pace back and has the ability to carry the running game if need be. He is the Miami Hurricanes' leading rushers in their storied history. And potentially, Johnson could be the Browns starter sooner rather than later if the Browns and Crowell don't get a long-term deal done.

Duke Johnson as a runner is underused there is no doubt about it. But, Duke Johnson the pass catcher is where he shows how valuable he is to this team. In his first two seasons, Johnson has 114 catches for over 1000 yards. In 2015, his rookie season, he was second in catches by rookies. The guy who was first? Amari Cooper of the Raiders. Last season, Johnson was second on the team with 53 catches for 514 yards and fans should expect the same type of season this year. Especially since, it was reported that Johnson could see some time as the slot receiver in certain formations in Hue Jackson's offense.

Outside of the two-headed monster of Crowell and Johnson, the Browns have a couple guys battling for third team reps. Rookie Matt Dayes out of North Carolina State was drafted in the seventh round. The Browns really like him during their time at the Senior Bowl. Dayes left NC State as their fourth leading rusher and third in rushing touchdowns during his four year career. If Dayes makes this team it would probably be because of his contribution to special teams. Same thing goes with Terrence Magee and Brandon Wilds. Both are going to have to contribute on special teams and show the coaching staff who they are during the preseason in order to crack the 53-man roster.

Krunch Time With Katelin: Five Stories and Thoughts from the 2016 Cleveland Browns

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

2016 was tough year for the Browns. A number of different quarterbacks, a ton of injuries, and the lack of wins resulting in the number one overall pick in the upcoming draft. We knew this past season was going to be rough and the start of a tear-down rebuild, but not many expected the Browns to end up 1-15 at seasons end. With 1-15 there aren't a lot of stories to tell but here are five stories that will help recap this 2016 season.

5. Let's start with the number of quarterbacks this past season. Not counting Terrelle Pryor and Duke Johnson who threw passes this season, the Browns had five different quarterbacks lineup under center for them. Cody Kessler, Josh McCown, and Robert Griffin III started this past season with Kevin Hogan and Charlie Whitehurst taking snaps in relief of Cody Kessler. The quarterback problems started week one when RGIII broke a bone in his shoulder. Then, in week two, McCown ended up breaking his collar bone which sidelined him for a month and a half. Cody Kessler didn't play terrible for a rookie quarterback but he didn't do enough to keep the job for the entire season. RGIII ended up started the last four weeks and didn't help solidify anything for the 2017 season.

4. Jamie Collins, one of the best linebackers in the NFL, got traded from the New England Patriots to Cleveland. The Browns gave up a third round pick for his services. After the Browns traded for Collins it was weird to see on the field. Everyone could tell how good he was and at some points he seemed frustrated with the lack of talent around him. It was also weird to hear the speculation of why Collins was traded out of New England. Whether it was locker room stuff or him being a free agent in 2017...it will hopefully help the Browns going forward.

3. Even though the year was tough a number of players stepped up and made a giant leap. Guys like Christian Kirksey, Jamar Taylor, Danny Shelton and Isaiah Crowell improved immensely because of the opportunity given. Danny Shelton played like a top tier nose tackle. He was constantly disrupting the flow of the opposing offensive line even if statistically the Browns defense didn't play well. Christian Kirksey ranked 6th in total tackles with 143. The past two years he was spelling Karlos Dansby but this year he was all over and was a three down player. He improved on his run defense and has always been a solid in pass coverage. Jamar Taylor was traded to Cleveland from Miami for a handful of spots...in the seventh round of the 2016 draft.

Taylor was a former second round pick who seemed to be a bust for Miami. For his growth this past season the Browns ended up rewarding him with a 3yr/$15 million extension. And finally Isaiah Crowell...who ended up 48 rushing yards short of 1000 for the season. The First few weeks of the season Crowell was lighting it up and was in the top 5 in rushing yards. Because of injuries at offensive line Crowell's 1000 yard season dream came up short, but it was positive in the sense of how the Browns found their starting running back going forward.

2. Terrelle Pryor's transition from quarterback to wide receiver was amazing to see...even if former and opposing players criticized him for being emotional on the field. Its not that people didn't think he could do it, he's a freak athlete, but if he was going to become selfish and become a "diva" on and off the field. While off the field some took their shots at him on the field he played extremely well. 77 catches 1007 yards and four touchdowns in his first full season at receiver is pretty dang good. Hell fans wanted the Browns to sign Pryor to an extension after his crazy game in Miami where he caught eight passes for 144 yards, ran for 21 yards and a touchdown...and threw the ball for 35 yards on 3/5 passing. It will be interesting to see if Pryor has a future in the Browns and Orange but even if he doesn't he was one of (if not the main reason) people still tuned in on Sundays to watch the Browns.

1. The Browns only winning one game this season has to be the number one story. Whether it was speculation Hue Jackson and company were going to get fired at the end of the season...which turned out to be kinda true. Or the number of odd ways the Browns found themselves on the short end of the win column. Like when The Browns stormed to a 20-2 lead against the Ravens and ended up losing 25-20 because of a blocked PAT that was returned for a touchdown and a missed field goal. (and lets not forget about the stupid flag on Terrelle Pryor when he went to give the official the ball) Or when Cody Parkey missed three field goals in one game including a potential game winner, And the Duke Johnson fumble that he obviously recovered but the lady official completely messed up calling a Redskins recovery when Johnson had the ball five yards behind her. And that all happened in consecutive weeks...And the 0-16 parade which divided Browns fans on many social media platforms. Heck, it ended up having one of Cleveland's top radio personalities threatening to run over people who were participating in the parade.(I guess anything for ratings). But All in all the Browns won a game and ten's of thousands of dollars were donated to the Cleveland Food Bank because of the fan funded 0-16 parade and the contributions from the Cleveland Browns and others.

This season was a trip. Remembering all these stories and seeing how social media was during this headache of a season was something to remember...if people didn't pay that close of attention because of the Indians playoff success or the Ohio State University during their thing on Saturday's. But the "try-out year" as I coined in my season preview was a success. I think the Browns have a good idea of were their weaknesses are and now have the tools to fix this team the correct way. And that starts with making smart signing during free agency with the large amount of cap room they have and the number one overall pick in April's draft.  

Browns Recap 12.19.16: Cleveland Browns @ Buffalo Bills

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The Browns fall to 0-14 after a 33-13 loss to the Bills. With that loss the Browns join the 1976 Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 1980 Saints and 2008 Lions to go at least 0-14 in one season. The Buccaneers and Lions ended their season winless. So, I guess there is that...

Game Recap:

The game itself was competitive game up until the middle of the third quarter when the Browns cut the lead to only seven after Robert Griffin III ran for a 18 yard touchdown run. But that where things got out of hand. The Bills went on a 17-3 run to end the game, including two touchdowns by running back LeSean McCoy.

The Browns defense struggled to stop the run, giving up 280 yards on the ground. McCoy ran for 153 yards on 19 rushes and quarterback Tyrod Taylor ran for 49 yards including one for 28 yards. Because of the success on the ground, the Bills won the the time of possession battle by almost 10 mins. The Browns also struggled to get off the field on third down, allowing the Bills to convert 4/9 times, including a 3rd and 22 which set up a scoring drive at the end of the first half.

The Bills passing offense did enough to win this game. Taylor threw for 174 yards on 17/24 attempts and one touchdown. Charles Clay was the Bills leading receiver with seven catches for 72 yards and a touchdown. Clay caught all seven targets this game and the Browns had no answer to stop him.

The Browns offense wasn't that good, only totaling 269 yards. Robert Griffin III threw for 196 yards on 17/28 attempts. Duke Johnson lead the team in catches with five for 62 yards. Terrelle Pryor had another rough game, only catching four of his eight targets for 19 yards. The running game wasn't terrible at times but overall the Browns couldn't muster anything up. RGIII was the leading rusher with 48 yards. Duke Johnson had 31 yards on five rushes and Isaiah Crowell had eight carries for only 28 yards.

Overall, Griffin didn't lose this game for the Browns. It was the defense who unfortunately couldn't stop the Bills and give the Browns a chance to get back into the game. The Browns didn't commit any turnovers but didn't force any either.

Most Valuable Brown: Duke Johnson had 10 total touches for 93 total yards. The Browns didn't play well this game so picking a MVB for this week was tough.

Browns Preview 11.25.16: New York Giants @ Cleveland Browns

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The (7-3) New York Giants travel to Cleveland to take on the (0-11) Browns. Last week the Browns lost to the Steelers 24-9 in a game where they suffered another injury at quarterback. Rookie Cody Kessler suffered a concussion and will be out this week. Josh McCown will start in his place. The Giants on the other-hand defeated the Bears at home 22-16 and are now second in the NFC East behind the Cowboys.


Browns Offense vs Giants Defense

The Browns are going to struggle in all facets of the game. The Giants have a great front four headlined by Jason Pierre-Paul and Olivier Vernon. Both are top tier pass rushers and are solid in run defense. But where the Giants really excel is in pass defense. Yes, they only rank 13th in that category but they've only given up nine passing touchdowns all year which is tied with the Broncos. Their cornerbacks Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and Landon Collins have played extremely well this year. And Collins is now the Giants starting cornerback (due to injuries) after starting the season at safety. Terrelle Pryor and Cory Coleman will have their hands full trying to get open this week.

The Browns can't give up on the run this week. Whether its Isaiah Crowell or Duke Johnson carrying the rock the Browns need to control the tempo of this game. It won't be easy considering the Giants also have the eighth best run defense in the NFL, but an honest running game should open up some passing windows for McCown.

The main key for this game is to not turn the ball over. Josh McCown needs to take care of the football better. He has eight turnovers in four games (six interceptions and two fumbles). If McCown can limit the turnovers and just take what the defense gives him the Browns should keep this game within 10 points going into the fourth. #MoralVictory


Browns Defense vs Giants Offense

This should be an interesting matchup. Joe Haden going up against Odell Beckham Jr. Haden has played well this year while battling through nagging injuries Haden and the Browns defense will need to keep Odell out of the end zone this week if they want a fighters chance to win because in wins this year Odell has five out of his six touchdowns. To win its fairly simple. Limit Odell and make him frustrated, so he mentally checks out of the game.

Eli Manning is prone to throw interceptions and has 10 this year. The Browns will need to capitalize on his aggressiveness. Whether is preventing points on a long drive or setting up the offense with a short field, all the breaks will need to go the Browns ways.

The Giants rarely run the ball but with Rashard Jennings back to 100%, they should attempt the run a bit more. In that area the Browns and the Giants are both ranked 31st in the league so something has to give.


Five Guys To Watch

Joe Haden: Haden will match up with Beckham Jr. most of the game and it should be interesting who comes up on top. Whoever wins this matchup should win this game.

Jamie Collins: Collins is a defensive playmaker. Whether in the run or pass defense Collins needs to come up big this game. He's played really well in his few games with the Browns and has shown he deserves whatever contract he's going to get this off-season.

Christian Kirksey: Kirksey is making a case to be selected to the pro-bowl. Kirksey is second in tackles with 103 and has shown a lot of growth this year. #MoralVictory

Terrelle Pryor: Pryor is the lone-playmaker for the Browns. He's going to get a lot of targets this game. He's shown an ability to play well against top tier corners in the league. Pryor is one of the few bright spots on this team this year.

Duke Johnson: Whether catching the ball or running it Johnson has shown he can do both. With Crowell struggling to run the ball, Johnson should get more carries this week and going forward. Johnson should get 15+ touches between catches and carries.


Injury Report
Weather Report
Betting Line: NYG -7



Prediction: Giants 28 Browns 13

The Browns fall to 0-12 and their #QuestForImperfection is still in place. This game will be a frustrating one where the Browns can't do much on offense and the defense keeps it fairly close for most of this game. Also this should be Josh McCown's last start for the Browns with RGIII scheduled to return week 14. Thank goodness the bye week is next week for this team.

Browns Recap 11.7.16: Dallas Cowboys @ Cleveland Browns

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE


The Cleveland Browns fall to 0-9 after their 35-10 loss to the Cowboys. The Browns became the first team since 1964 to give up 25+ points in the first nine games of the season. Overall this game was terrible and it started on the first drive. Center Cam Erving got ejected from the game after a personal foul flag for throwing the helmet of Cowboy's defensive tackle David Irving. Irving was also ejected for a personal foul on Erving.


Browns Offense

The Browns offense was terrible on Sunday, only managing 222 yards. 177 yards were through the air. Cody Kessler was 19/27 passing with 203, a touchdown with a quarterback rating of 104.4. Kessler was sacked four times for 26 yards and ended up having x-rays done on his leg after the game. He's still expected to start Thursday against the Ravens.

The Browns leading receiver was running back Isaiah Crowell, who caught four passes for 63 yards. 44 of them were on a catch and run on the first drive of the game, which set up a field goal. Terrelle Pryor caught five passes for 47 yards, one of which was a 12 yard touchdown at the end of the first half. And Corey Coleman caught three passes for 41 yards in his first game back after breaking his hand before week 3.

The running game was horrible and wasn't used because deficit the Browns found themselves in. Duke Johnson had 30 yards on five carries and Crowell had four yards on six carries. Kessler also had 11 yards on the ground on two carries.

The Browns were 1/9 on third down and only had the ball for 20:21. They couldn't keep their own defense off the field. But the offense, at the very least, did protect the ball this week...not committing a turnover.


Browns Defense

Defensively, the Browns gave up 423 yards. 255 of those yards were through the air. Dak Prescott was 21/27 for 247 yards, three touchdowns and had a quarterback rating of 141.8. Prescott didn't turn the ball over. He was given a clean pocket all game, only hit once (which was by Jamie Collins Sr) and wasn't sacked. He also had 20 yards on the ground on four carries. Mark Sanchez threw one pass for eight yards.

Jason Witten had a huge game. Eight catches for 134 yards and a touchdown. This was Witten's first 100 yard game since week 17 in 2013...yes 2013...2.5 seasons ago.  Cole Beasley also had a solid game, catching six passes for 56 yards and a touchdown. Dez Bryant was held in check though. He only had one catch for 19 yards...and was only targeted four times.

On the ground Dallas did whatever they wanted. Ezekiel Elliott had 92 yards and two touchdowns on 18 carries. Alfred Morris had 56 yards on 17 carries. Dallas as a team averaged four yards per carry and had a 168 yards on the ground.

The combination off all that resulted in Dallas controlling the clock for over 39 mins. They were 8/12 on third down and were also 2/2 on fourth down. The Browns leading tacklers were Demario Davis with 10 tackles, Christian Kirksey had nine tackles and new Brown Jamie Collins Sr had eight tackles.










Most Valuable Brown

Cody Kessler is the MVB of this week. This game was terrible but Kessler had another solid game. Considering how badly the right side of the offensive line played (Alvin Bailey and Austin Pasztor) Kessler really did do the best he could. Kessler is the starter for the rest of the year, so its exciting to see if he can potentially become the quarterback of the future for the Browns.