Browns Preview 12.9.16: Cincinnati Bengals @ Cleveland Browns

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The 4-7-1 Cincinnati Bengals travel to Cleveland to take on the 0-12 Browns, who are coming off of a bye week. The Browns announced that Robert Griffin III will be the starter Sunday with rookie Cody Kessler has his backup. Griffin started week one against the Eagles and went 12/26 for 190 yards and one interception before suffering a fractured bone in his non-throwing shoulder which sidelined him until now. The Bengals are coming off of a 32-14 win against the Eagles were they picked off rookie Carson Wentz three times.


Browns Offense vs Bengals Defense

Its unknown what the Browns are going to feature offensively. Griffin will have some rust to start off, so the Browns will have to run the ball, even though its not usually their game plan. It doesn't matter whether its Isaiah Crowell or Duke Johnson getting the bulk of the carries, the Browns need to protect Griffin this week and the next three weeks if they want a realistic shot of winning a game this year. Duke Johnson should get the most touches this game considering he has the better yards per carry between the two and his a threat to catch the ball out of the backfield.

The passing game should be interesting to watch. Terrelle Pryor and Corey Coleman will be the main targets for Griffin which is expected, but considering the time off for Griffin his chemistry/timing could be off with his wideouts. Griffin needs to protect the ball and himself this game, so checking down, sliding when scrambling, and throwing the ball away will be extremely important.


Browns Defense vs Bengals Offense

Its unknown if AJ Green will play this week for the Bengals but whether or not he plays, the Browns main focus should be stopping the running game. Earlier this year, the Bengals ran for 271 yards on 30 attempts against the Browns and Jeremy Hill had 168 of those 271 yards. If the Browns don't stop the run game they have no chance this week.

Andy Dalton is prone to throw interceptions at times, hopefully the Browns can force him into a mistake and then capitalize on it. If AJ Green doesn't play, rookie Tyler Boyd and Brandon LaFell will start at receiver. Both have 40+ catches on the year and are solid targets for Dalton.


Five Guys to Watch

Robert Griffin III: Griffin is going to be someone to watch the next four games. There is still a small chance Griffin can win over the front office and coaching staff and become the quarterback for the future. If the Browns win one of these four games its going to be because of Griffin.

Christian Kirksey: Kirksey is one of the leaders on defense and has really grown this year. He's going to need to play extremely well in the run game for the Browns to stop the two headed monster (Jeremy Hill and Gio Bernard). Kirksey will also be matched up against Tyler Eifert.

Johnathan Cooper: Cooper is a former first round pick who will be starting for the first time for the Browns. Cooper has a lot to prove but with Greco down for the year, he has an opportunity to prove he isn't a bust.

Corey Coleman: It will be interesting to see how he looks after a week off. Coleman seems to be growing and his play is improving. Also Hue Jackson said Coleman might be used as a punt returner too.

Joe Haden: Whether or not AJ Green plays, Haden will need to lock down who ever he's covering. Haden should have a really good game this week and maybe even an interception because the Browns need their defensive play makers to make some plays for them to get a win this week.

Injury Report
Weather
Betting Line: Cincinnati -5.5


Prediction: 28-17 Bengals

The Browns should play well this week but unfortunately fall to 0-13. Griffin should start out rusty but end the game playing fairly well. The Browns are going to win a game this season, but its not going to be this week.

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 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 10.7.16: New England Patriots @ Cleveland Browns

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The 3-1 New England Patriots travels to Cleveland to take on the 0-4 Browns. Both teams lost last week. The Patriots lost 16-0 to the Buffalo Bills at home. The Browns lost to the Redskins 31-20 in Washington. This week marks the return of Tom Brady, who was serving a four game suspension for "Deflate Gate".

Browns Offense vs Patriots Defense

The Browns running game is ranked first in the league with 142 yards per game. So we should expect the Browns to continue to run the ball since the Patriots are giving up 100 yards per game on the ground this year. Isaiah Crowell and Duke Johnson should get 30 carries between the two. The Browns need to control the time of possession. Like last week, the Bills ran for 134 yards on 32 carries but most importantly they controlled the ball for 36 mins.

The passing game with Kessler should continue to do what they do. A lot of slant routes with Terrelle Pryor, check downs passes to Duke Johnson, and find his "ole' reliable" target Gary Barnidge. The Patriots are going to bring presser at times and stack the box, so expect more passes down field. Kessler is getting more comfortable in the NFL and its his first home start of his young career, so Hue Jackson might bring out all the stops to upset the Patriots.

The last key for the Browns to win is to continue to convert on third down. Last week the Browns were 8/12 on third down and they have a 42% conversion percentage this year, which ranks 13th in the NFL. Converting third downs help the time of possession and obviously helps the Browns get into scoring position.

*Note John Greco is the starting center this week, Alvin Bailey is projected to start at right guard this week.


Browns Defense vs Patriots Offense

Tom Brady is back. Rob Gronkowski is close to 100%. And LeGarrette Blount is third in rushing yards just behind Isaiah Crowell.

Tom Brady is a question mark this week. Everyone expects him to throw for 500 yards and 4 touchdowns, but he hasn't played since the preseason. The Browns need to get pressure to Brady and knock him down so he doesn't get into a rhythm early. But Brady has all of his offense weapons this week: Gronk, Julian Edelman, and Martellus Bennett. This might be one of those games where the Browns need to force the Pats to run the ball.

LeGarrette Blount is a top rusher in the NFL and he's also one of the biggest backs in the league. Blount should get a ton of touches so the Pats can ease Brady into the game. Blount is averaging four yards per carry and he has four touchdowns. James White is the pass catching back for the Pats. White has 13 catches this year and is a really good change of pace back to spell Blount.

The Browns need to force the ground game and get pressure to Tom Brady. The Browns are going to have to pick their spots like always because of the youth of the defense.


Five Guys to Watch

Isaiah Crowell: Crowell should get an increase in carries this week. If he can go for at least 80 yards against the Patriots defense, when they know the run is coming, Crowell should be in the discussion as one of the better backs in the league. And like stated before, Crowell's success this week should keep the Browns in this game.

Gary Barnidge: Barnidge has caught 16/18 passes to him this year. This week he should get a ton of targets and have a breakout game this week since the Pats will try to take away the running game and Terrelle Pryor.

Carl Nassib (Hopefully): Nassib was back to practice this week. He is still questionable for this week but if Nassib can play limited snaps he will really help the pass rush with Ogbah and Cam Johnson.

Derrick Kindred: Kindred will be matched up against Gronk or Bennett. It could be a long day for him. But as long as he does his job Kendred shouldn't be exposed to badly this week. This match up personifies the term "tryout year".

Joe Haden: Haden will be up against Edelman this week. Haden has to lock down the lake this week and help force an interception. Haden will be up against not just Edelman but the tight ends too while in the redzone. As the superstar player on defense Haden needs to step up against the elite playmakers of the Patriots.




Injury Report 
Weather Report
Betting Line: Patriots -10.5

Prediction: Patriots 34 - Browns 21

This game can go either way. But expect the Browns to lose and the Patriots to cover the spread late. The Browns will play well like the first four weeks but they just can't pull it out. Another morale win for the Browns but another frustrating game to watch for the fans...at least the Tribe plays at 4pm.

Krunch Time With Katelin: Cleveland Browns Quarter Season Report

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE


The Browns are 0-4 with 12 games left. The first quarter of the season has been tough for the Browns. Just on offense they lost their two quarterbacks Robert Griffin III and Josh McCown, first round pick Corey Coleman, two centers Cam Erving and Austin Reiter. Then on defense they lost rookie pass rusher Carl Nassib, their starting defensive tackle John Hughes (who was released), and their secondary has been banged up. And lets not start on the kicking situation.


Browns Offense Ranks: 12th in yards per game, 25th in passing yards per game, 1st in rushing yards per game, 13th in third down percentage, and 26th in points per game.

Quarterbacks

Robert Griffin III is a lost cause because of injuries. He suffered a shoulder injuring at the end of week one and was put on IR with a possibility of return. Griffin didn't play bad during week one but he did look lost at times. Griffin was 12/26 for 190 yards and one interception. Fans and the coaching staff would love to see more of Griffin but with him being out for most of the season its highly unlikely he becomes the quarterback of the future.

Josh McCown along with Terrelle Pryor might be the MVP of the first quarter. McCown played one game which was against the Ravens in week two. He went 20/33 for 260 yards and two touchdowns and two interceptions. The guy played most of the game with a fracture in his non-throwing shoulder. Yeah the Browns ended up losing the game, but with McCown under center the offense played extremely well. Even with the shoulder injury, McCown is projected to be back some time in the middle of the year.

Cody Kessler started week three and four. The guy did exactly what the Browns need him to do, and that is not lose the game. Kessler in the two games went 49/73 for 467 yards, one touchdown and one interception. The offense with Kessler has been run heavy, and a ton of short passes. What's interesting about Kessler is that he has almost the exact same stats as Carson Wentz through their first two games.

Kessler: 49/73, 467 yards, 1 touchdowns and 1 interception
Wentz: 43/71, 468 yards, 3 touchdowns and zero interceptions

Quarterbacks Grade: B-


Running Backs

Isaiah Crowell is another bright spot on this team. Crowell is second in the NFL in rushing yards. Crowell is averaging 6.5 yards per carry. (61 carries/394 yards) and three touchdowns including a 85 yard run against the Ravens. Another positive about Crowell is his ability to hold onto the ball. He has yet to fumble this year and hasn't had a fumble since his rookie year in 2014. Crowell like stated in previous articles is the "Jeremy Hill" of Hue Jackson's offense. Also he is projected to have just under 1600 yards on the ground.  

Duke Johnson, the "Gio Bernard" of Hue Jackson's offense, is a playmaker. He's only gotten 24 carries but he's got 124 yards on the ground for 6.2 yards per carry. Where Johnson does his most damage is in the passing game. Johnson has 18 catches, which is second behind Terrelle Pryor, for 115 yards. Not really sure if Duke Johnson will get an increase in carries with Isaiah Crowell balling out, but Duke has an important job in this offense.

Running Backs Grade: A


Wide Receivers

Terrelle Pryor looks like a NFL wide receiver. Pryor is first on the team in catches (19) and receiving yards (290). In week three Pryor had eight catches for 144 yards, he ran for 21 yards and a touchdown, and threw for 35 yards on 3/5 passes. Pryor at 6'4 is a matchup nightmare. He's played really well in week four catching his first career touchdown pass against Josh Norman.

Corey Coleman unfortunately got hurt in practice after having a breakout game in week two. Against the Ravens, Coleman had five catches for 104 yards and two touchdowns (which ranks first on the team). Coleman is expected to be back by mid-season after breaking a bone in his hand. Its unfortunate that he got hurt but he did show he can play in this league.

Other Receivers like Andrew Hawkins and Ricardo Lewis have done an okay job trying to replace Coleman. Its extremely hard to judge these other receivers since the offense changed with Cody Kessler under center.

Wide Receiver Grade: B-


Tight End

Gary Barnidge has been underwhelming but when he's been thrown too he's delivered. Barnidge has 16 catches on 18 targets, 160 yards, 10 first downs, and a two point conversion. Barnidge hasn't been productive but he's been reliable for rookie quarterback Cody Kessler. What's odd about Barnidge is that week one he didn't have a catch. Its odd because he was projected to be a target for Robert Griffin III and he was coming off a season where he caught 79 passes for just over 1000 yards and nine touchdowns.

The other tight end Randall Telfer is mostly used as an extra blocker. He was targeted once and doesn't have a catch yet this year.

Tight End Grade: C+


Offensive Line

The Offensive line has been solid this year even though they have used three different starting centers in four weeks. The Browns are ranked first in the run game and its not just because of Isaiah Crowell. Guys like John Greco and Joel Bitonio have done a fantastic job clearing up space in the middle. Joe Thomas is the G.O.A.T. and we all know this. He's the anchor of this offensive line and the guy is unbelievable. The only weak spot seems to be right tackle with Austin Pasztor. Pasztor against the Miami Dolphins had six penalties for over 70 yards loss. Now the pass blocking has been average since the group has given up 11 sacks in four games which is tied for seventh most. Which caused Josh McCown's shoulder injury. Obviously sacks happen and with the constant changes its hard to get a rhythm but group has been solid overall.

Offensive Line Grade: B


Defense Ranks: 22nd in opponents total yards per game, 19th in opponents third down percentage, 16th in opponents passing yards per game, and 24th in opponents rushing yards per game.


Defensive line

Guys like Carl Nassib, Danny Shelton and Jamie Meder are really growing. Nassib broke his hand after a promising first week but is projected to practice and might play in week five. Guys like Danny Shelton and Jamie Meder are playing really well. Shelton doesn't look lost like like year and isn't getting out played by Meder who was an undrafted free agent. Meder and Shelton are starting in the Browns 3-4 along side of Xavier Cooper. Meder took over for John Hughes who started week one but was scratched in week two and then released. The Browns went really young on the defensive line which is most likely the reason for the higher opp. rushing yards per game.

Defensive Line Grade: C+


Linebackers

The Browns linebackers are really solid. The four starting linebackers are Demario Davis, Christian Kirksey, on the inside and rookies Emmanual Ogbah and Joe Schobert on the outside. Davis and Kirksey are really good in pass coverage. Kirksey ranks second on the team in total tacks (29) and Davis ranks third (25). Ogbah and Schobert doesn't have a sack yet but they have a couple pass deflections. Pass rush wise the Browns are lacking with only six sacks, but Cody Lemonier and Cam Johnson have three sacks and two forced fumbles between them. Injuries have also hit the linebacker position in last years second round pick Nate Orchard being placed on the IR with a ankle injury.

Linebacker Grade: B-


Defensive Backs

Joe Haden had a terrible game in week one, but redeemed himself in week two against the Ravens. Joe Haden locked up the Ravens top guy and had two interceptions.  The injury bug hit Haden which made him miss week three against the Dolphins. Haden came back in week four and played okay while still nursing his groin injury.

Jamar Taylor, who is a former second round pick of Miami, has really played well. He has reinvigorated his career in Cleveland. He has 16 tackles and two interceptions. Taylor has been the constant at corner with the injuries of Joe Haden and Tramon Williams. Taylor seems to be one of those guys that could be here in Cleveland long term. The Browns really seem to like him and again he's flourished in his opportunity.

Jordan Poyer is first on the team in tackles with 31. He's an average free safety who really hasn't impressed. He's below average in the passing game which is why he has a lot for tackles. This is the first time Poyer is the full-time starter, but through four week free safety is a position of weakness on this team.

Shifting to the strong safety position, Derrick Kendred looks like a player. He is fourth on the team with 20 tackles and he's played over 80% of the snaps on defense which is crazy for a fourth round rookie. But with Ibraheim Campbell out Kendred has stepped up and shown a lot of progress through the first four weeks.

Other DBs:  Briean Boddy-Calhoun played really well considering he was an undrafted rookie and was a late pick up for the Browns. Boddy-Calhoun has an interception which he returned for a touchdown against Miami and he also has a sack which was against the Redskins. Tramon Williams on the other hand was hit with the injury bug in week three which caused him to miss week four against Washington. Williams struggled against Jordan Matthews and Steve Smith Sr and seemed to be slow at times. But Williams is the lone vet on the defense along side Joe Haden.

Defensive Backs Grade: B


Special Teams

The Special Teams have been awful. The Kicking game with Cody Parkey and Patrick Murray have been terrible. Murray had two kicks blocked in week two which ended up being the difference in the game (a blocked PAT that was returned for two points and a blocked field goal). And Cody Parkey who missed three field goals in week three against Miami including a game winning field goal at the end of regulation.

But it not just the Kicking game that has struggled, the punt return game has been equally as bad. The Browns only have five punt returns for 33 yards and Duke Johnson has one of them for 18 yards. The Browns need to find a punt returner and stick with him. Jordan Poyer is the only guy to have more than one punt return. As of right now the Browns just have a punt catcher not a returner.

As for Punter Britton Colquitt has done a fine job as punter. He's a seven year pro and was part of the Super Bowl winning Denver Broncos last year. Colquitt only has one touchback. He has an average of 47 yards with a long of 59 yards. Not much else to say about Colquitt, the guy is a solid punter.

Special Teams Grade: D


Coaching

Hue Jackson has done an amazing job the first four weeks. The team is in every game and looks prepared. Jackson's play calling seemed to be a bit pass heavy but other than that there really isn't much to complain about. He made this offense competitive even thought they are on their third quarterback. Hue Jackson gets the most out of his players and in a tryout year of sorts that's all you can hope for. Also guys want to play for him you can see how he reaches players and they trust him.

Ray Horton is basically doing the same as Hue but on the defensive side of the ball. Horton has put these guys in a position to win and be successful. He's been aggressive at times which is his MO but not as much because of the injuries to Joe Haden and Tramon Williams.

Coaching Grade: A

Browns Preview 9.23.16: Cleveland Browns @ Miami Dolphins

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The (0-2) Cleveland Browns travel to Miami to take on the Dolphins who are also (0-2). Last week the Browns lost to the Ravens 25-20. while the Dolphins lost to the Patriots 31-24. This week also marks the 26th different starting quarterback the Browns will have since 1999. Cody Kessler will start with Charlie Whitehurst as the number two.


Browns Offense vs Dolphins Defense

Now its hard to use that stats from last week since the Browns will be heading into week three on their third quarterback, and also will be with

out rookie first round pick Corey Coleman (who broke his hand this week in practice). The game plan for the Browns with Kessler under center should be get the ball out of his hands quickly so expect short to intermediate throws. Now yes the Browns will have to keep the Dolphins honest so I'm sure there will be a few deep balls down the field. But overall expect guys like Gary Barnidge and Duke Johnson to get a lot of check down catches just to keep the offense moving forward.

The Dolphins have injured two starting quarterbacks in as many weeks. Week one was Russell Wilson and week two was Jimmy Garoppolo. So its extremely important for the Browns to come out of this week with Kessler's health intact. Running the ball will be difficult against the Fins front seven, with guys like Cameron Wake, Ndamukong Suh, and Koa Misi. The Dolphins will want to force Cody Kessler to beat them and force him to throw the ball down field which really isn't his forte. For the Browns to be successful they can't give up on running the ball no matter how much they are trailing by.

This will be an interesting week for the rookie wide receivers Rashard Higgins, Jordan Payton, and Ricardo Lewis. All three will get ample playing time these next two weeks with Corey Coleman out and Josh Gordon still being suspended until week five. This week is the personification of this entire 2016 season. The ultimate tryout year.


Browns Defense vs Dolphins Offense

The Browns defense is going to have to force Miami to run the ball. Last week the Dolphins lost Arian Foster for a few weeks due to a groin injury. With Foster out, the 'Phins leading rusher is quarterback Ryan Tannehill.

The Browns need to get to Tannehill too. If he has time in the pocket he will be able to find guys like Jarvis Landry, Jordan Cameron, and DeVante Parker. The Game plan on defense should be similar to the one last week against the Ravens. Prevent the deep ball, force the running game to beat you, and force Tannehill into some errant throws.

 Last week the Dolphins had 459 total yards while only having the ball for 23:14. Which means a lot of the their yards and points came in the fourth quarter where they scored 14 points. Yes stats can be misleading. This week the Browns defense needs to step up since Kessler is starting. If the Browns defense can give the offense a short field a few time then maybe the Browns can pull out a win in Miami.


Five Guys to Watch

Cody Kessler: Well this one is pretty obvious. Its kinda weird to thing Cody Kessler will start an NFL game before first overall pick Jared Goff and Paxton Lynch. The Browns didn't expect or want him to start this early in his career but it will be interesting to see how well he conducts himself. If he can have a game with 250+ yards and one interception, I think the Browns and their fans will be just fine with his effort. Hell at this point if he just makes it to next week I think the Browns and fans will be happy.

Rashard Higgins: "Hollywood" Higgins was a fifth round pick out of Colorado State. Scouts said he was one of the best route runners coming into the draft. If he can come out and have 4+ catch game it will be a plus. Higgins has the opportunity to show why he should have been one of the top receivers picked in the 2016 draft...and with a nickname like "Hollywood" you got to prove it on the big stage.

Joe Haden: Joe shut up some of the haters last week with his two interceptions. Now he has to go up against Jarvis Landry who is one of the top up and coming receivers in the league. If Joe can shut down Landry the Browns will have an opportunity to pull out a win in Miami.

Duke Johnson: Lets hope Johnson gets a few more touches this week. He could be very important going forward with Kessler starting. Johnson, who was second last year in catches by rookies, really excels at catching the ball out of the backfield. When he is on the field it gives Kessler another playmaker besides Terrelle Pryor and Gary Barnidge.

Danny Shelton: Shelton has played pretty well the first two weeks. If he can continue to grow like he has it can really help the Browns rush defense. This week its important for the Browns to force Miami into running so Shelton is an easy pick for one of the five guys to watch.


Injury Report:

Weather Report:

Betting Line: Miami -9.5


Prediction: Miami 31 Browns 10

The Browns will fall to (0-3) this week. I think Kessler will play well but not enough for the win. The offense will be stagnate at times this week but its to be expected with a rookie quarterback. The defense overall will be good but by the of the game they will be gassed and give up a few big plays. Its going to be a frustrated week for the team and fans. But as long as Kessler and this team stays healthy its a positive in my book.

Browns Preview: Cleveland Browns @ Phiadelphia Eagles

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The Cleveland Browns led by new Head Coach Hue Jackson take on the Philadelphia Eagles and their new Head Coach Doug Peterson. This game has a lot of first considering both teams are in the process of rebuilding. Also this is the first game for rookie quarterback Carson Wentz who was taken number two overall by the Eagles after completing a trade with the Browns last April.

Browns Offense vs. Eagles Defense

The Browns offense will be based on the run game. Isaiah Crowell is expected to get a huge chuck of the carries this Sunday. Now against the Eagles and their wide 9 defensive scheme the Browns might have some trouble with stretch runs on either side of the ball. The Eagles have a solid defensive line highlighted by Fletcher Cox and Connor Barwin. Cox is arguably one of the best defensive tackles in the game and just signed a 6yr/103 million dollar extension this off-season. How and why are these two guys a problem for the Browns to have success in this game? Look at who they are matched up with: Cox and John Greco will be matched up and the same with Barwin and right tackle Austin Pasztor. On paper, the right side of the Browns offensive line will struggle against these two so it will b up to Crowell to take advantage of every hole they can create. The Eagles are also very athletic. Barwin and Brandon Graham are former outside linebackers in a 3-4 defense and since the wide 9 in now implemented they are now defensive ends. And along side of Cox and Bennie Logan the Browns could struggle to start the game.

Where there is hope offensively, is the passing game. If quarterback Robert Griffin III can stay upright the Browns could have a field day. Yes the starting receivers Corey Coleman and Terrelle Pryor are making their first starts, but the threat of Pryor down the field and ability of Duke Johnson to catch the ball out of the back field will give the Browns some balance. By balance I mean the way the Eagles will have to defend the passing game. Whether that is having a safety over the top and RGIII dumping down to Johnson or Gary Barnidge or its press-man coverage and throwing the ball down the field for Pryor or Coleman to run it down. Now saying all this the key is keeping RGIII upright. If the Browns O-line can give him some time RGIII will make the right decisions, whether its checking down or just throwing the ball away.

The last key for the offense is to prolong drives. The Browns were terrible converting third downs during the preseason. They won't be able to bank on the big plays down field all the time this year.

Browns Defense vs Eagles Offense

The Eagles are starting rookie quarterback Carson Wentz, who only played in one preseason game before injuring his ribs. The Eagles have a really good offensive line even without right tackle Lane Johnson. Expect a high dose of running back Ryan Mathews this game. The Browns defense during the preseason couldn't stop the run. It will be the most important thing to do it this game. They need to force Wentz to pass the ball so defensive coordinator Ray Horton can call up the blitz. Blitzing Wentz and forcing him into mistakes will give the Browns a great opportunity to win this game. Now some of the other weapons for the Eagles are tight ends Brent Celek and Zack Ertz. Tight ends are the safety blanket for quarterbacks so expect a lot of dink and dunks to those two.

Also backup running back Darren Sproles (yes that Darren Sproles). Sproles is still really good catching the ball out of the backfield and for the same reason as the tight ends expect him to catch a handful of balls this game. I won't expect the Eagles to throw the ball down field as much even though they have solid receivers in Jordan Matthews and Nelson Agholor. Passes down field will give the Browns an opportunity to get to Wentz which is what the Eagles might want to avoid for many reason including his inexperience, lack of practice time, and the injury he is recovering from.

Wentz will try and be a game manager on Sunday. The Eagles want to see what they have in him but if he can't get it done there is a possibility backup quarterback Chase Daniels gets into the game.   Yes it is a long shot but if  the game is close and Wentz isn't playing well the Eagles might go to Daniels for the win...yes, Chase Daniels for the win.

Five Guys to Watch

Joe Haden: This is Haden's first game back since the middle of last year. This is also a put up or shut up year for him. If he want to reclaim his spot as an elite cornerback it starts this game going up against Wentz.

Cam Erving: This will be his first game as a full time center. Can he control the o-line and make the correct adjustments? Well time will tell which is why he's a guy to watch.

Corey Coleman: The first round pick out of Baylor and the first pick of Hue Jackson and company. Coleman has a ton of talent and balled out during training camp but he did struggle during the preseason games. If he can catch 5-8 passes and go for 70 yards it will be a solid debut. Its important to get him into a rhythm early so he doesn't get discouraged.

Carl Nassib: Can Nassib continue to ball out as he did during the preseason. Yes he won't be starting but on passing downs he will be on the field because he has a nose for the quarterback.

Robert Griffin III: This will be his first regular season game since 2014. Griffin looked solid during the preseason. Lets hope he continues to develop and can correctly read defenses. Also like stated before its important for him to take what the defense gives him and throwing the ball away is ok.


Injury Report 
Weather
Line: Browns +3.5 *subject to change

Prediction

The Browns are going to win this game 27-21. They will create havoc for Carson Wentz which will force him into some bad throws. The Browns who finally have some weapons on offense will take advantage of the takeaways. Griffin will throw for 250+ yards and two touchdowns. And Crowell will run for a touchdown. Also expect a trick play with Terrelle Pryor either throwing the ball or running it out of the "wildcat" formation. Its important for Hue Jackson to start out 1-0 and if the Browns win it will be their first opening day win since 2004.