Browns Preview 9/29/17: Cincinnati Bengals @ Cleveland Browns

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The winless Cincinnati Bengals travel to Cleveland to take on the winless Browns in this week four matchup. The Browns lost to the Colts 31-28 last week. And the Bengals lost to the Packers 27-24 in overtime.



Browns Offense vs Bengals Defense

The Browns offense on the other hand has struggled during the first three weeks of the season. Last week, turnovers and penalties killed the Browns' momentum at times. Kizer threw three picks last week, all in the second half of the game, when the Browns were down two touchdowns. The Browns passing game didn't get any help from their young receivers. The receivers were called for four offensive pass interference penalties.

The gameplan this week for the Browns should be pretty simple. Protect the ball. Last weeks three picks from Kizer wasn't good, especially the first one that was in the redzone. The running game needs to keep improving, but in order for the running games to get an opportunity the Browns defense needs to keep them in games. Like last week, the Browns were forced to throw the ball 47 times because the Browns were down three scores. Kizer and Isaiah Crowell had 11 attempts each and Duke Johnson was only given two rushes but made the most of his opportunity, scoring on a 19-yard touchdown run.  Hopefully this week against the Bengals, who have struggled against the run this year, the Browns can get their running game going.

The passing game this year is lead by Duke Johnson, Rashard Higgins, Seth Devalve, and David Njoku. The Browns need someone on the outside to step up. Guys like Kenny Britt and Ricardo Lewis have had issues getting open. This week the outside guys need to step up in order to open up the passing game for their leading receivers.




Browns Defense vs Bengals Offense

The Browns might have Myles Garrett back this week. Garrett participated in practice Thursday. Unfortunately, Jamie Collins is still in concussion protocol.

The Bengals have three running backs they alternate with. Rookie Joe Mixon is their leading rusher, with Gio Bernard and Jeremy Hill second and third. The Browns run defense on the other hand has done a pretty good job this year. They are ranked 14th in rush defense this year.

The issue for the Browns defense this week will be Andy Dalton and AJ Green. Last week the Browns let T.Y. Hilton do whatever he wanted in the first half. And that is one of if not the main reason the Browns lost last week. They can't keep letting the opposition's best receiver kill them each week. Going into week four, AJ Green is the Bengals leading receiver with 20 catches. Brandon LaFell is second on the team with eight...So the game plan on defense should be limit Green and force Dalton to use other weapons.




Five Guys to Watch

1. DeShone Kizer: Like I say every week, Kizer is the number one guy to watch. He's the franchise quarterback for this regime. I think we will start seeing improvement with Kizer. Last week he only took one sack, which is a major positive. Now we need to see his accuracy improve with these receivers.

2. Jabrill Peppers: He's another guy where everyone is watching multiple things. First, where he is lined up on defense. And second how he comes up and plays in open field. Last week he and a horrible game. Hopefully he can rebound and play a bit less hesitant.

3. Myles Garrett: This one is pretty simple. Garrett was our number one overall pick and has yet to play a down in the regular season. Garrett's ability as a pass rusher should help a defense that is one of the worst at getting pressure on the quarterback.

4. Trevon Coley: With Danny Shelton dealing with an injury, Coley will have to step up and be the number one defensive tackle on defense. Guys like Coley, Meder, Ogunjobi, and Brantley have played really well in rush defense. All these guys are going to have to step up if Shelton is either out of game or extremely limited when playing.

5. Emmanual Ogbah: Ogbah has struggled in the first three weeks of the season. Hopefully with the return of Garrett, Ogbah can get more favorable matchups and get to the quarterback way more than he has.


Injury Report

Weather Report 

Betting Line: Cincinnati -3


Prediction: Browns 24 Bengals 17

Yes, I am once again taking the Browns to win a game...I think the presence of Myles Garrett is going to help the defense without a doubt. And because the defense will be much improved it will give Hue Jackson an opportunity to call on the running game much more than he's been able to through three weeks. If the Browns win the turnover battle they will win this game.

Cleveland Browns 2017 Season Preview: Offensive & Defensive Line

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE


**PREVIOUS**
The Coaching Staff
The Running Backs


The 2017 Cleveland Browns' success will be because of how both of their lines play. The Browns spent most of their off-season addressing the Offensive line in free agency and the Defensive line during the draft.

On the offensive side, the Browns signed former Bengal Kevin Zeitler to play right guard and former Packer J.C. Tretter. The Browns made Zeitler the highest-paid guard in NFL history with a five year contract worth of $60 Million and then the Browns signed Tretter for three years worth about $15 Million. Lost in all of that though the Browns signed their own players, giving left guard Joel Bitonio to a five year extension. The Browns offensive identity this season is to be a ground and pound type football team. Hue Jackson wasn't able to run the ball as much as he would have liked to last season because of a number of reasons. Which is why the Browns are willing to spend almost $50 Million this season on their offensive line.

Four out of five Starting Linemen spots are filled: Joe Thomas (obviously), Bitonio, Tretter, and Zeitler. The only offensive line battle during the preseason is at right tackle, which involves, former first round pick in 2015, Cam Erving and last year's third round pick Shon Coleman. And going into the first preseason game, Coleman is listed as the starter and seems to be the favorite to win the job.

Outside of the starting five the Browns have have a lot of versatility on the offensive line. Cam Erving has played every o-line position during his football career. John Greco has been the starting right guard for the past five seasons. Greco has also shown an ability to play center if need be. The Browns also have Spencer Drango who played and started a number of games last season in place of Bitonio. And during the draft the Browns traded up for Rod Johnson, a left tackle out of Florida State. If anything, Johnson might become a practice squad, stash and then develop for a year or so.

Offensive Line Outlook: They will definitely be improved from last season. "IF" everyone stays healthy they could possibly be one of the best offensive line in the NFL. And if rookie quarterback Deshone Kizer starts, this offensive line shouldn't give Hue Jackson and company anything to be worried about.

The Browns defensive line might be the deepest part of the team. With the change to a 4-3 defense the Browns drafted a number of linemen this past April, headlined by the number one overall pick Myles Garrett. Garrett is the prototypical right defensive end. He will be attacking the quarterback's blind side and go one-on-one against the opposing team's left tackle. By doing that it will keep him fresh for passing rushing situations since the majority of the time teams run to right side of their offensive line. Garrett has shown during training camp he's a monster. Seeing him up close is kind of crazy. The guy is a physical freak and the Browns made the right choice taking him first in the draft.

Opposite of Garrett will be Emmanuel Ogbah, the Browns second round pick from last season. His rookie season was a tale of two halves. The first half of the season he struggled with his pass rush and during pass coverage as a 3-4 outside linebacker. But then he was switched to defensive end and that's where he finally excelled. This year he is going back to his college position as a defensive end in a 4-3 defense. The starting defensive tackles will be, former first round pick from 2015, Danny Shelton and Desmond Bryant. Shelton might have been the most improved player in 2016. It also looks like he slimmed down this off-season in order to play defensive tackle in the 4-3 defense. Bryant missed the 2016 season with a torn pectoral. In his three seasons in Cleveland, Bryant has started all 41 games he's played in. He's also the elder statesman on the Browns defensive line at 31 years old.

This is were the Browns defensive line depths shows. First, guys who are most likely going to make this team. Carl Nassib, who showed some flashes during his rookie season while playing with a broken hand. Rookies Larry Ogunjobi and Caleb Brantley. Ogunjobi was drafted in the third round and Brantley in the sixth. But the reason Brantley fell to the sixth round wasn't because of play, it was because of an alleged off-field incident that has already been cleared. Brantley was projected to be a top 50 pick in the draft, so its unlikely the Browns will cut him because of the value they got on him. Cam Johnson is another guy who seems to be a lock for this team as a pass rusher. In 12 games last season (nine starts) he recorded three sacks and two forced fumbles. And the last potential lock for this team is "The Pierogi Prince of Parma" Jamie Meder. Yes, Valley Forge's and Ashland's own is a lock to be on this team. Meder should transition into a solid defensive tackle in the 4-3. But his value isn't just on defense but special teams too. Meder blocked a field goal in the Browns' only win last season against the then San Diego Chargers.

Unfortunately, with all those guys as potential locks it doesn't leave much room for guys like Nate Orchard and Xavier Cooper. Both were part of the 2015 draft. Nate Orchard was a second round pick, but in his first two seasons he's battled injuries and playing as a 3-4 outside linebacker. He's in the same situation as Ogbah but might not get the benefit of the doubt because he was drafted by the previous regime.

Defensive Line Outlook: The defensive line is kind of hard to predict. Do they have the talent? Yes. But they are extremely young. And the success of a D-Line goes hand-in-hand with the success of the defensive backs and vise-versa. So if the line plays well, then overall the defense will be pretty good. And with Gregg Williams at the helm, its hard to see them not playing well for 16 games.

Browns Talk 1/10/17: The Browns Defense Going Forward With Gregg Williams

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The Cleveland Browns will have a new defensive coordinator for the 2017 season. Gregg Williams was officially named as DC Saturday and is expected to bring 3-4 coaches with him from the Rams. This change isn't just a coaching change though, its a schematic also. For the first time since 2012, the Browns will use the 4-3 defense. Gregg Williams primarily uses the 4-3 base defense and has for most of his career...and frankly it fits this roster better going forward.

The Browns defense going into this off-season still has major holes but the simple switch to the 4-3 helps patch up some of them. For example, Emmanual Ogbah will be a defensive end in the 4-3 defense. He can just focus on run stopping and pass rushing instead of including pass coverage when he was an outside linebacker in the 3-4. Ogbah started to play well when he was switched to the defensive line in the last month and a half of the season.  Same thing does with Desmond Bryant who might end up moving to defensive tackle next to Danny Shelton in a 4-3.

Now of course there are some players who won't have to change positions but it will help with depth at individual positions...like at middle linebacker. Christian Kirksey should continue to be the middle linebacker in the 4-3. He has a nose for the ball and speed to play the run and pass in the 4-3. Kirksey by the way lead the team in tackles with 148. With that Demario Davis will become the main backup for Kirksey and that's going to make the entire defense stronger. Having a former starter, who was the second on the team in tackles, as a backup should help this team on the field and the front office off the field during free agency and the draft.

The Browns obviously have the number one overall pick and the 12th overall pick in the NFL Draft. They have been linked to a handful of players at number one but Myles Garrett seems to be consensus best player in this draft and has been mocked to the Browns at one by almost every "draft expert". Myles Garrett has been compared to Jevon Kearse by NFL.com draft Analyst Lance Zierlein. Garrett on the opposite side of Ogbah would help the development of both player. Williams' defense will use both of their strengths and try and get to the quarterback as much as they can. Garrett wouldn't have to worry about covering a running back or tight end at all like Ogbah did for the first 2/3rd of his NFL career.

With the 12th overall pick the Browns have been linked to many players on both sides of the ball. A ton of fans hope one of the top rated safeties end up dropping to the Browns. Malik Hooker and Jamal Adams are the top rated "free" and "strong" safety. They've been compared to elite players in recent history. Hooker could be the next Ed Reed and Jamal Adams was recently compared to Sean Taylor by Matt Miller of Bleacher Report. I know those are crazy comparisons but if one of these guys are there at 12, it would be crazy for the Browns to pass up one of those guys. Especially Adams who was compared to Sean Taylor and Gregg Williams was his defensive coordinator in Washington during his career.

Free Agency is going to be interesting for the Browns. They have a ton of money in their pocket to spend and a few holes to fill on defense. The Browns I'm sure want Jamie Collins for the long-term. Collins is one of the best outside linebackers in the NFL and the change of defensive schemes shouldn't affect his position status with the team. But there are a couple free agents who would help this defense day one.

Duron Harmon is a safety from the New England Patriots. He's going to be a unrestricted free agent this off-season and is set to get a pay day from a new team. He's currently the backup for Devin McCourty. Harmon is only 26 years old so it would fit the Browns' rebuilding plan. He's coming from the New England and that doesn't hurt and is a perfect fit to help change the culture.

Trumaine Johnson is another guy who would fit this Browns team. He's been part Gregg Williams defense the past few years and had his best years under Williams (164 tackles and 11 interceptions since 2014).  He's another unrestricted free agent who is only 27 years old. Johnson and Haden patrolling the secondary with Gregg Williams attacking defense with hopefully one of the rookie safeties and Myles Garrett...that's starting to become "on paper" a top tier defense in the NFL.

Browns Preview 12.30.16: Cleveland Browns @ Pittsburgh Steelers

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The (1-15) Cleveland Browns travel to Pittsburgh to take on the (10-5) Steelers. This is going to be a weird game for a few reasons. First off, the Steelers are expected to sit Ben Roethlisberger, Le'Veon Bell, and Antonio Brown this week since they already clinched the third seed in the AFC playoff standings. On the other hand if the Browns lose this week, they will clinch the 1st overall pick for the first time since 2000.


Browns Offense vs Steelers Defense

It sounds like Robert Griffin III will start this week, since he was cleared to be taken out of Concussion protocol. If Griffin doesn't start, Cody Kessler will start in place of him. Another a few other shifts on the offensive line. Jonathan Cooper was released this week and Alvin Bailey was activated off of the suspension list and will start this week. Cam Erving will shift over to right tackle in place of Austin Pasztor and either Anthony Fabiano or Gabe Ikard will start at center this week.

The game plan this week should be the same as the past few weeks with Griffin at quarterback. Use Griffin's legs to set up the zone-read running game for Isaiah Crowell. The Browns should run the ball a lot to the right to test Cam Erving at right tackle. It will be interesting to see if the Browns active Darius Jackson this week. Jackson was claimed a few weeks ago from Dallas and has yet to be activated for a game.

The passing game should be the same also. Take some shots down field to keep the defense honest, but overall just take what the defense gives Griffin. Corey Coleman should get a lot of targets since Terrelle Pryor is still banged up. Duke Johnson should get his normal touches out of the backfield in the check down game.


Browns Defense vs Steelers Offense

Landry Jones will be starting this week for the Steelers. He has a career record of 1-2. And the one win was against the Browns last year when he got hurt and Big Ben replaced him. DeAngelo Williams will start and get the bulk of the carries with Bell out.

The Steelers should play conservatively. They don't want anyone to get hurt this game, whether its a backup or a starting offensive lineman. So heavy running, winning the time of possession, and limiting turnovers is going to be their game plan for this week,

The Browns will need to force a turnover or two to be able to pull out this game. And to do that they need to get pressure on Jones. Jamar Taylor should get multiple opportunities to make a play this.  On the run defense side, Shelton needs to set the tone at the line of scrimmage since DeAngelo Williams will get the start and many carries.


Five Guys to Watch

Cam Erving: Cam's is getting his first start at right tackle and it sounds like he could be the right tackle in 2017.

Robert Griffin III: This could be his last start in a Browns uniform. The Browns will need to make a decision about him this off-season and depending how things go, Griffin could be out of the NFL.

Isaiah Crowell: It will be interesting to see how the running game will play with a new look offensive line. Crowell is 200 yards away from 1000 for the season. Yes it seems unlikely but hey...its something to watch out for.

Emmanual Ogbah: Ogbah will need to get to the quarterback this week. Hopefully Ogbah can close out this year on a high note. He's played really well since moving to the defensive line.

Danny Shelton: The Steelers are going to run the ball with Williams a lot this week. Shelton is an easy pick this week. He needs to set the line of scrimmage and can't let the Steelers running game get into a rhythm.


Injury Report
Weather
Betting Line: Pittsburgh -6


Prediction: 24-17 Steelers

Don't worry Browns fans, they clinch the number one overall pick and draft talk can begin next week. The only good thing about this week 17 is that no changes should be made on "Black Monday". The Browns didn't go 1-15, aren't firing coaches, and clinched the number one overall pick...I'd say that a fairly successful "try-out" year.

Browns Preview 12.23.16: San Diego Chargers @ Cleveland Browns

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The Chargers travel to Cleveland this week to play the Browns on Christmas Eve (Saturday). Both teams lost last week. The Chargers lost 19-16 to the Oakland Raiders and now have a record of 5-9. The Browns obviously lost last week to the Bills 33-13. This could mark the last time the "San Diego Chargers" play a game in Cleveland, with the speculation of them moving to LA in the near future.

Browns Offense vs Chargers Defense

The Browns will be starting Robert Griffin III but is apparently on a short leash. The past two weeks the offense struggled passing the ball and keeping drives going. And some of the blame goes on Griffin. He's missed easy check down throws multiple times and has forced unnecessary shots down field. For this week, Griffin needs to correct these problems and not force anything crazy or else Cody Kessler will take some snaps this week.

The most important thing for the Browns to do though is to keep Melvin Ingram and Joey Bosa out of the backfield. Ingram has seven sacks on the year and Bosa has 7.5 despite only playing in 10 games this year. The Browns have given up the most sacks this year (53) so whether its RGIII being able to shift the pocket and use his legs to stay upright and extend plays.

The running game seems to be a lost cause. And Hue Jackson said that once the Browns aren't down by a huge margin is when he will give Crowell 15+ carries. So with two weeks left in the season and 0-16 staring them in the face its highly unlikely the running game will be a major part of the game pan. The only way the running game will used is in the read option with RGIII at quarterback, which has worked at points these past two weeks.

Browns Defense vs Chargers Offense

Its unclear if Melvin Gordon will play this week. If he does, the Browns need to keep him contained. He is only 3 yards away from 1000 for the season, has 12 total touchdowns (10 rushing) and has 41 catches. He is a threat in all facets of the game. If he doesn't play Kenneth Farrow will start.

The passing game is lead by Philip Rivers, who is still one of the best quarterbacks in the league. He's prone to force throws at times so the Browns secondary needs to stay alert to potentially pick off a pass. Rivers has thrown 29 touchdowns and 18 interceptions this season and is 205 yards away from 4000 yards this season.

Rivers has many weapons on offense. He has three solid receivers, Tyrell Williams, Dontrelle Inman, and former Brown Travis Benjamin. Those three are his top receivers, totaling 154 catches, 2,242 yards and 14 touchdowns. The Browns corners are going to have a tough day stopping the passing game. And that doesn't count the two tight ends the Chargers throw out there. Rookie Hunter Henry has 32 catches and seven touchdowns this year, and 36 year old Antonio Gates is still out there catching 40 balls this season and five touchdowns.


Five Guys to Watch

Robert Griffin III: His days as an NFL starter seem to be coming towards an end. He might be playing for a job next year at this point so he is going to have to win this game to keep the Browns from going 0-16 and quite possibly his NFL dreams alive.

Terrelle Pryor: Pryor is another guy playing still playing for next year. He's been quiet the past two weeks and is now playing hurt with a torn ligament in his finger. This could be one of those game where he comes out and proves the haters wrong once again.

Jamie Collins Sr: Its unclear what the Browns are going to do with Collins this off-season but he has been a bright spot on this team since joining back in October. Collins vs the Chargers' tight ends should be a fun match-up to watch.

Jamar Taylor: Taylor needs to contain whoever he is matched up with this week. Rivers should be targeting he a lot this weeks.

Emmanual Ogbah: Ogbah has played well since being moved to defensive line. He's grown as a reliable pass rusher the past few weeks and he should get many chances to get to Rivers.





Weather Report:

Injury Report: 
Betting Line: Chargers -6


Predictions: 24-20 Browns

I said the Browns were going to win a game this year and its setting up to be this game. The Chargers have to travel across the county to play the 0-16 Browns on Xmas Eve...yeah ITS HAPPENING...or maybe ITS NOT HAPPENING (as in the 0-16 parade). But seriously this is setting up to be final straw in the Mike McCoy era in San Diego or where ever they are going to play in 2017.

Browns Preview 11.18.16: Pittsburgh Steelers @ Cleveland Browns

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The (4-5) Pittsburgh Steelers travel to Cleveland to take on the (0-10) Browns. The Browns are coming off an interesting game against the Ravens where rookie starting quarterback Cody Kessler was benched in the second half  while leading 7-6. Then Josh McCown took over and the Browns ended up losing 28-7. The Steelers lost to the Cowboys last week 35-30 in a shootout. Ben Roethlisberger threw for 408 yards and three touchdowns in that game. But the deciding factor of this game was the Steelers going 0/4 on two point conversion attempts.


Browns Offense vs Steelers Defense

Cody Kessler will be starting this week with an opportunity to show he's improved enough to be the starter long-term. Kessler will need to prove he can throw the ball down field to help out the running game and the intermediate passing game. Kessler's stats aren't bad. He's thrown six touchdowns and only one interception (which was back in week four). Kessler has a high completion percentage 66.9% but only 7 yards per attempt. The Steelers defense gives up about 278 yards threw the air. Their secondary is headlined by William Gay...yes William Gay is still in the league. They have first round pick Artie Burns as their nickel corner and former Browns first round pick Justin Gilbert as a sub-package corner.  With all that being said Corey Coleman and Terrelle Pryor should have a good day Sunday. Pryor is a matchup nightmare for the Steelers, whether its down the field or in intermediate yardage. But its up to Kessler to take advantage of Pryor and Coleman.

The running game just needs to keep the Steelers honest. Its not like the Browns are going to run for 120 yards but if they can get 85-100 total yards on the ground then it should keep the Browns in third and manageable. The Steelers give up about 102 yards on the ground per game with ranks 15th in the NFL. But with the loss of Cameron Heyward the Steelers will need to adjust and the Browns need to take advantage of the lack of Heyward...both in the running game and pass protection.

The offensive line of the Browns will dictate how this game goes. Cam Erving and Spencer Drango are the most important, Erving and Drango have to keep the pocket clean for Kessler to be able to throw the ball down field like Hue Jackson wants. Yes, Kessler needs to get the ball out quicker but we've seen Erving...he might be the worst player in the NFL and Drango is still a rookie.  But if the Browns can win in the trenches then the Browns have an opportunity to at the very least cover the betting spread.


Browns Defense vs Steelers Offense

This is were this game can...and will get ugly. The Browns defense averages 419 total yards per game which ranks them 31st just behind the 49ers. And the Steelers average 370 total yards per game which is ranked 11th. Roethlisberger is going to target Antonio Brown and Le'Veon the most in the passing game. Brown will be going against Joe Haden most of the game and has had great numbers against him. Haden has problems going against small and quick receivers because of Haden's inability to play press-man against him. Bell will have a combination of linebackers (Jamie Collins, Christian Kirksey, and others) and young safeties. Browns and Bell are first and second on the team with catches...and Bell missed the first three games due to suspension.

The Browns struggle against the pass giving up about 275 yards per game...but against the run the Browns are 31st, giving up 143 yards per game. The linebackers for the Browns will have big games stat wise because the Steelers game plan should be give the ball to Bell 25+ times. The Browns have to choose whether or not to sell out on the run or pass and then hope they can force a turnover...whether its in the red zone stopping a score or the Steelers side of the ball shortening the field for the offense.


Five Guys to Watch

Cody Kessler: Kessler is going to be one of the five guys to watch until the end of the season. Kessler has an opportunity to prove to the front office and coaching staff he's the starter to build around. Kessler need to get the ball out quickly and to stay aggressive whether its down the field or scrabbling for extra yards.

Terrelle Pryor: Pryor has shown he can be a pro-bowl receiver. Kessler needs to play aggressive  and Pryor and him have good chemistry. So Pryor should get a ton of targets this week and should find the goal line at least once.

Cam Erving: Erving is running out of chances to prove he's an NFL player not just a starting center. With Heyward out, Erving has an opportunity to show he can be a competent center. These next few weeks will be a tryout not just for his Browns career but his entire NFL career.

Emmanual Ogbah: Ogbah is now listed as an defensive lineman instead of an outside linebacker. He needs to play well in both against the pass and rush. And he needs to capitalize on the pressure he gets on Roethlisberger.

Joe Haden: As long as Haden doesn't let Antonio Brown go for 120 + yards then its a success. Haden is in an almost impossible situation. He's banged up and he will have to go up against the best receiver without any help this game will show if he's quit...and if the team has quit on this year in general.

Injury Report

Weather Report
Betting Line: Pittsburgh -8


Prediction: Steelers 35 Browns 24

The Browns will fall to 0-11...*insert #questforimperfection & 0-16 parade jokes. This is a must win for the Steelers to potentially remained tied with the Ravens (who are playing the Cowboys). Kessler should play well and Pryor and Kirksey will continue to show that they are pro-bowl players but overall the team lacks talent all over...and this game will show the giant gap between the Steelers and Browns.

Browns Preview 10.21.16: Cleveland Browns @ Cincinnati Bengals

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The (0-6) Cleveland Browns travel to the Cincinnati to take on the (2-4) Bengals. Last week the Browns lost to the Tennessee Titans 28-26. The Bengals lost to the New England Patriots 35-17. This week marks the first time Hue Jackson takes on the Bengals as a head coach since leaving Cincinnati for Cleveland.


Browns Offense vs Bengals Defense

The Browns offense struggled last week and they should struggle again this week. The running game hasn't done anything the past few weeks. The Bengals are ranked 20th in the NFL in rush defense giving up 108 yards per game. The Browns can't give up on the running game like they did last week. Last week the Browns only had 15 rushes...4 rushes for Duke Johnson for 18 yard and Isaiah Crowell had 9 rushes for only 16 yards. This week the Browns will need to control the time of possession and the only way they can do that is have success on the ground.

Cameron Erving needs to step up this week. Last week was his first game since his injury week two against the Ravens. Erving is going to set the tone for the game this week. Erving has been terrible in both pass protection and run blocking but hopefully another week recovering from injury will help improve his play. 

Cody Kessler has balled out since becoming the starter and is starting make his case to be the quarterback of the future. Kessler's game plan each week is simple...short quick passes to the tight ends and running backs and when in doubt target Terrelle Pryor. Lets just hope Pryor is able to play this week even though he's been nursing a hamstring injury. 

Last key for the Browns offensively is converting on third down. Last week the Browns were 3-13 on third down which was one of the main reasons they gave up on the run. 


Browns Defense vs Bengals Offense

The main thing the Browns need to do defensively is stop A.J. Green at all cost. Green is a top tier receiver, ranking number one in catches with 42, and third in yardage with 606.  Joe Haden will be matched up against AJ Green this week. The past few years Haden has had Green's number which is why its important Haden plays even if he's only at 80% or so. 

Pressuring Andy Dalton is another key for success. Dalton is known to make mistakes when pressured and the Browns should be able to do that. The Bengals have given up 19 sacks which is tied, with the Browns, for second with most in the NFL. So guys like Carl Nassib, Emmanuel Ogbah, and Cam Johnson should have a field day.

Last but not least is stopping the two headed monster in Jeremy Hill and Gio Bernard. Hill will get most of the carries on the ground, Bernard is not just a threat on the ground but in the passing game too. Bernard is second on the team with 29 catches. The Browns shouldn't have to sell out to stop the run this week and all they should do is focus on getting to Dalton and shutting down AJ Green.


Five Guys to Watch

Joe Haden: The Browns need Haden this week. Like stated before, Green has had terrible games against Haden. Haden need to come up big for the Browns to have a chance this week.

Emmanuel Ogbah: Ogbah is still looking for his firs career sack and this week seems like the perfect week for him to record it against a struggling Bengals O-line.

Duke Johnson: Johnson has been a disappointment this year and needs to step up as a playmaker. Whether its in the kick/punt return game, the passing game, or the ground game the Browns need his play-making ability. Also he takes pressure off of Crowell and Kessler. 

Cody Kessler: Speaking of Kessler he will be making his fifth start of his career this week. He's played really well for a rookie and its really nice to see him grow. Its going to be interesting to see how well he plays with one of his main guys (Pryor) hurt. Kessler seems to have chemistry with Ricardo Lewis. 

Ricardo Lewis: Lewis had a really solid game last week recording 5 catches for 65 yards. He's been inconsistent at times with drops but if Pryor can't play look for this week to be his coming out game. 


Injury Report
Weather Report

Betting Line: Cincinnati -10

 
Unfortunately the Browns fall again, which will make their record 0-7. Now I won't be surprised if the Browns keep it close for most of the game but the Bengals have too many weapons and are a veteran team. Another moral victory for the Browns. Kessler will continue to play well and develop right in front of us. Like I said in my
"Krunch Time With Katelin" article this week this season is all about the big picture and a game like Sunday's against a really good opponent in Cincinnati will help make the development go even faster. And like I've stated in the past few previews...don't get all pissed off at the Browns. Just go enjoy the Indians, Buckeyes and Cavaliers!!!

Browns Preview 9.30.16: Cleveland Browns @ Washington Redskins

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE


The Browns travel to Washington to take on the Redskins in week four. The Browns came up short in a very winnable game against the Dolphins 30-24 in overtime. With the loss the Browns start the season 0-3 and are last in the AFC North. The Redskins on the other hand pulled out a win against the New York Giants 29-27. With their win they are 1-2, but are last place in the NFC East.

Browns Offense vs Redskins Defense

The Browns offense was based around wide receiver Terrelle Pryor. Pryor had 144 yards receiving, 21 yards on the ground, and 35 passing yards. And this week isn't going to be any different. Pryor will be going against one of the best corners in the NFL, Josh Norman. If Pryor can have another big game it might just solidify him as an NFL wide out and a top one.

Again, like last week the Browns should have success running the ball with Isaiah Crowell and Duke Johnson. Isaiah Crowell  is tied for second in rushing yards with Zeke Elliott. Coach Jackson hoped Crowell could breakout this year and go for 1000+ yards on the ground, and he's on pace to do that and a lot more. The Browns running game is starting to look like the Bengals from last year, where Hue Jackson was an offensive coordinator. Crowell is like "Jeremy Hill" and Duke Johnson is like "Gio Bernard". Crowell and Johnson have different skill sets but together they really have helped this offense move the ball, especially since the Browns are on their third string quarterback. Last week Washington gave up 120 yards on only 21 rushes and 5.7 per attempt. If the Browns stick to the run and control the clock they have a great opportunity to win this game in Washington.

It may seem like a broken record but if Cody Kessler can just manage the game like last week, the Browns will be in a position to win this game. Kessler last week was 21/33 for 244 yards, no touchdowns, but no interceptions. Kessler didn't force anything and played within himself. And that's all you can hope for with a rookie. There were times Kessler didn't run when he had open field, but he moved in the pocket and threw the ball away. Most rookies force bad throws. Now going into this week expect the same game plan for Kessler. Slant routes, out routes, play actions, and a few bombs down field, with Deangelo Hall out for the season and to make sure Ryan Kerrigan doesn't get into the backfield.

The Redskins defense has been terrible the first three weeks. They rank 29th in points given up, with 30.7. and 29th in total yards given up with 424.7 per game.

Browns Defense vs Redskins Offense

The Browns secondary will have their hands full with the likes of DeSean Jackson, Jordan Reed, Pierre Garcon, and Jamison Crowder. Now based on the first three weeks the Browns main problem is guarding the slot receiver. Week 1 vs Matthews (7-114-1TD), week 2 vs Steve Smith (3-64), and week 3 vs Landry (7-120-1). This week they will be going against Crowder who has (16-175-2) through three weeks.

Unfortunately, its not just Crowder, its the Redskins entire passing offense. Quarterback Kirk Cousins ranks second is passing yards with 989. The Redskins rarely run the ball, last week they ran it 30 times for only 90 yards. So if the Browns want to win this potential shootout their main key should be getting to Cousins. He has three picks on the season along with his three touchdowns. He's a solid quarterback with a lot of weapons at hand. If the Browns can slow down the passing game, which they might be able to, they will be in a position to win

Five Guys to Watch

Terrelle Pryor: This one is pretty obvious. Pryor is coming off a history making game last week. If he can get near the same numbers this week...I think the Browns will win.

Isaiah Crowell: The number two rusher against on of the worst rush defenses in the NFL, again this is another obvious pick. And with Kessler starting again expect to Hue Jackson to "Feed the Crow".

Jamar Taylor: Taylor seems to have revitalized his career in Cleveland. With Joe Haden questionable this week, Taylor needs to step up again if the Browns are successful in stopping the Redskins passing offense.

Emmanuel Ogbah: Its not just on the secondary to stop the receivers, its also very important to get a consistent pass rush. Ogbah has played well the first three weeks, but is due to have a break out game. The Redskins offensive line has some question marks this week. Its extremely important to get  to Cousins to force a bad throw.

Cody Parkey: Yes, he kick who blew the game last week like the Warriors blew a 3-1 in the Finals, a one of the five guys to watch. Lets all hope last week was an anomaly. The guy was signed on Friday night and didn't have any reps until Sunday morning. Parkey is a former Pro-Bowler so there is hope.



Injury Report:
Weather Report:
Betting Line: Washington (-8)

Prediction

The Browns will finally get a win this year 31-27. The Redskins are currently in a weird position and apparently at odds with quarterback Kirk Cousins so this seems like one of those let your guard down games the Browns will win. Also with the emergence of Terrelle Pryor and Isaiah Crowell the Browns have a great opportunity to control the clock and set a tempo for this shootout of a game. Also this Browns team has shown that its going to be prepared every week and that falls on the coaching staff. Quite frankly; Hue Jackson deserves this game, Browns fans deserve this game and dammit Terrelle Pryor deserves this Dub.

Krunch Time With Katelin: 6 Things To Look For At Browns Training Camp

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE


Football is back and with that a new era has begun with the Browns. And with that there is always something new to look for during Training Camp which is why I chose six thing to keep an eye out for.

1. The first thing we all should look out for is Hue Jackson and how he runs his practices. From all the different reports there seems to be one contestant and that is how Coach Jackson and his staff are going to run training camp. This isn't going to be like years before which were named "camp cupcake" there is going to be live tackling when playing 11 on 11. Coach Jackson and his staff comes to Cleveland with a resume of toughness, grind it out, intense football teams. That is how they are going to build a successful team in Cleveland. Also going through the name coach Jackson has on his staff there is a ton of experience. Guys like Defensive Coordinator Ray Horton (yes again), Wide Receivers Coach Al Saunders, QB Coach/ Associate Head Coach Pep Hamilton, Running Backs Coordinator Kirby Wilson, and many more. All these guys have spent in total almost 100 years working in the NFL. So they all know what it takes to be successful, and to finally turn this franchise around.  

2. The second thing to watch for is Josh Gordon. Earlier this week he was reinstated by the NFL and is now officially on the Browns roster. Unfortunately he is out the first two weeks of training camp but watching an elite player like Josh Gordon will be worth turning into the preseason games. We don't know what shape Gordon is in or how the team will respond to him getting another chance so I'm really curious to see how all that plays out. And one last thing on Gordon, I'm curious if he can make it through training camp and the first four weeks without doing anything stupid (which honestly I think he can).  

3. Robert Griffin III is my third thing to watch out for...LOL. But for real, here is someone who was the second overall pick in the 2012 draft, took an average team to the playoffs, but unfortunately got hurt. The Redskins most likely rushed him back too soon since they gave up so much for him. RGIII hasn't played in a regular season game since November 23, 2014. He's only 26 years old, and Hue Jackson basically hand picked him to lead this team. I wouldn't say success is only based on how RGIII plays since we seen Josh McCown can lead this team need be, but if RGIII can be somewhat like his rookie season the Browns are going to be an entertaining football team to watch.

4. My fourth thing to keep an eye out for is the DB redemption. Last year we were talking about "locking down the lake" and that stupid stuff, but this year many players have something to prove. My guy "All-Pro Joe" needs to step it up this year. He got his money and last year was the worst of his career. Yes, he was often injured but when he did play it was extremely poorly even though there was a ton of hype as him being a top-5 corner in the NFL. Two other guys to watch for is Tramon Williams who again played poorly after being signed as a free agent last year. And former eighth overall pick Justin Gilbert who seemed to get into Mike Pettine's dog house and never could escape.  

5. Number five is Paul Kruger and Barkevious Mingo. Both have a lot to prove because:
A. Both didn't have a great year last year.
B. Both are going to be free agents 
C. Both are the savy vets on this defense. The Browns drafted three pass rushers in the top 100 picks this past draft (Emmanuel Ogbah, Carl Nassib & Joe Schobert).

6. Which brings us to the sixth thing we all should be looking at. And thats the 13 drafted picks and many other undrafted free agents. Yes we know about Corey Coleman, Emmanuel Ogbah, what about guys like receiver Ricardo Lewis, safety Derrick Kendred, Offensive lineman Spencer Drango, receiver Rashard Higgins, and undrafted free agent center Mike Matthews. There are many spots not just  on the 53 man roster that will be overtaken by rookies but potentially even starting spots on both sides of the ball. Which is another reason why even the preseason games will be entertaining.

The 2016 Cleveland Browns are going to be a fascinating team. A team that doesn't expect to win many game but to consistently improve and build towards a positive future and all that starts with Hue Jackson's first training camp in Cleveland.