The Browns vs Falcons game was a very disappointing game. It was disappointing because this was a game the Browns should have won and should have won in a comfortable manner. However, the same issue for this Browns team seems to arise again. This Cleveland Browns coaching staff has some of the blame for this loss as well. Not electing to kick a field goal on the first drive cost them. A David Njoku fumble that got them down 10-0 at one point. Things can get better and should. However, this is not the end.
Browns Offense
The Brown’s offense had a quite disappointing game against the Falcons. It seems that they outsmarted themselves in critical moments. Cleveland’s offense seemed to be able to do whatever they wanted to in passing and running but didn’t finish when it mattered most. In addition, the Cleveland Browns had many opportunities to put this game but they came up short. For example, the difference in the game was three points. If the Browns kick that field goal in the opening drive the game would at least have been tied. Next right before half time if they stick to their bread and butter and run the ball they get a touchdown there. Despite dominating statistical areas the Browns still had questionable play calling. Cleveland had an opportunity to win.
Browns Defense
Firstly heading into this game the Brown’s defense was short-handed. Three of four starting defensive linemen were out yesterday with an injury and that heavily impacted the game. From those three linemen, the best player on defense Myles Garrett was out. With that being said besides key injuries the defense played decent enough for the game to be won. Only giving up 23 points to an NFL team will take you a long way. However, they couldn’t stop the run. At one point the Falcons ran the ball sixteen times straight. In the end, the defense surrendered 202 rushing yards which will not cut it at all. Finally, communication still remains a bit of an issue.
Special Teams
The special teams didn’t have any glaring holes in this game. Cade York made all of his kicks for field goals and extra points. The punt return game was better but because they had Donovan Peoples-Jones back catching punts. As well Jerome Ford did an ok job of kick returning. For this unit, I believe that Kevin Stefanski can rely on them more. Most importantly in the kicking game, he can take points instead of having turnovers on downs. As well punting the ball can be helpful.
Atlanta Falcons
The Atlanta Falcons did what they had to in order to get a victory. They ran the ball effectively, at one point in the second half running sixteen straight run plays. The Falcons rushed for 202 yards, while the passing game was non-existent. Defensively they made a play at the right time during the right moment. This was a game they probably should not have won but they capitalized on opportunities and the Browns did not.
Conclusion
The Cleveland Browns are 2-2 after games, they lead the AFC North, and sit fourth overall in the AFC conference. All is not lost on the season. Cleveland did not take advantage of opportunities to win against an inferior team. For this Browns team, everyone needs to look at themselves in the mirror and find ways to execute better. This team is very close but needs to find ways to finish strong. The next 7 games will be a test that they can definitely win. Myles Garrett and Jadeveon Clowney should be back for these 7 games.
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