Happy victory Monday. It took 4.5 games to finally see what a franchise quarterback looks like and it was great. During those games you could see some glimmers of hope, but you could also tell the timing just wasn’t there. In the second half of yesterday’s game, it looked like it all came together. Watson showed off his arm, his legs and his decision making. His rhythm and timing where there for the first time this year. All this team needs now on offense is for the offensive linemen to hold on to their blocks and not turn around and watch the quarterback. Watson did escape some sacks, but he also ran into some sacks. An off-season of work with his offensive line will prevent a pass thrown to the starting right tackle. Watson was 9 for 18, 169 yards, three touchdowns and a QBR of 122.5. He also ran for 31 yards on 8 carries (3.9 average). Also, the Browns have a number one wide receiver. Amari Cooper had three catches for 105 yards and two touchdowns.
On defense having an old school, run stopping linebacker really makes a difference. The Browns need to resign both Reggie Ragland and Deion Jones. Safety Grant Delpit had his best game as a pro. Defensive end Jadeveon Clowney, defensive tackle Taven Bryan, cornerback Martin Emerson, cornerback Denzel Ward and safety D’Anthony Bell all played very well. Bell on defense and special teams. The bad side of the defense was a Washington 21 play, 96-yard drive that took over eleven minutes off the clock late in the second quarter. Not only did they score and take the lead, but they were getting the ball back first in the second half. The Browns defense did their job and forced a three and out. The Browns would score the go-ahead touchdown on the next possession. Finally, on offense running back Nick Chubb and defensive end Myles Garrett had Nick Chubb and Myles Garrett types of games.
As for the coaching, head coach Kevin Stefanski again took three points off the board by going for it on fourth and goal from the three. Stop it please and no Stefanski should not be fired. While defensive coordinator Joe Woods called a great game, he still should be fired. I think special team’s coach Mike Priefer has saved his job, going into this game the Browns special teams were ranked eleventh in the league.
Moving forward, the Browns head to Pittsburg to hopefully ruin the Steelers playoff hopes. Stay safe, Happy New Year and Go Browns.