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The Cleveland Browns are a 7-point home favorite as they host Chicago this coming weekend. Thus far, they beat the spread week one at KC, and failed to cover week two against Houston. One sign would give you hope, another would cause a concern. Either way, 1-1 heading into week three is where a lot of people had them coming into this game against the Bears.
The Browns are a playoff team from a year ago with heavy expectations to return this year. In fact, it would be a giant upset and shock to many if they didn’t. That is what makes them having so many question marks this early into the season, such a concern. Good teams should be cruising, the Browns haven’t just yet.
I still seeing the Browns winning double digit games this season and making waves in the playoffs, but they will have to win “winnable” games like this weekend against the Bears. If they are going to do that, then they will have to answer these questions ahead of them.
Can they run on that Bears defense?
In two games, the Bears have only allowed 143 total rushing yards. That is an average of only 71.5 yards per game given up. If the Browns only run for 71 yards on Sunday, they are in major trouble. That is their greatest strength and they will need it more now than ever.
In two games, the Browns have ran for a combined 309 yards in two games. They have looked rock solid and this run game can carry them to the Super Bowl this season. Is it the irresistible force versus the immovable object? Time will tell, but if the Browns do get a running game going, this will be a blowout in favor of the Brown and Orange.
How much of OBJ will we see?
I still do not think OBJ see’s the field this weekend, despite how much he practices. However, let’s just say we do see him, how many snaps will he get and will he have an impact? Coming back from an injury that serious is no easy task and typically takes 12-14 months to comeback at full speed. I fear the Browns may be rushing him back out of need, but, OBJ is a world class athlete, so if anyone can do it, it is him.
Do they force him the ball early to get is confidence up and the crowd into it? Do they limit his snaps to keep him rested and safe? What do they do?
Can they get pressure on Justin Fields
The typical defense against a RPO quarterback, is spy, read and react. However, the typical defense against a rookie is blitz him senseless. Fields is a different beast, and with taking the first team reps in practice this week, I’d have to expect the Bears work in a few wrinkles.
The Browns have had issues for many years with mobile quarterbacks. Even in last years 11-5 playoff year, it was a major problem for them. Lamar Jackson beat them twice and has beaten the Browns countless times in his career. They need to adjust!
Fields has struggled mightily thus far in limited action. He is just 8 of 15 for 70 yards with an interception. The Bears have the 31rst ranked passing game in the NFL as of this week. With that being the case, stop Fields from running, and this will be a cakewalk.
How’s Baker feeling?
Baker got smashed last week trying to make a tackle after he threw an interception. It was his none throwing hand / arm that got hurt, however, you can never be to sure when it comes to your franchise quarterback.
Following the injury, Stefanksi stuck to three step drops and quick timing routes for Baker. They will need to keep him upright this week as the Bears will be pinning back their ears and coming for him. Baker under pressure, is not always the best Baker. Help him out with short routes and screens.
The Bottom Line
If the Browns can get a run game going, and stick to short immediate passing working in the tight end’s and backs, they can and will win easily. As far as what Chicago brings, the answer is not much. Justin Fields isn’t nearly ready to start and will have a steep learning curve this year. I expect the Browns not only to win, but cover the 8 points.
I thought you said they would trade OBJ before the season