That was a very frustrating and embarrassing game. I knew Atlanta had a pretty good offense, but really, Atlanta? You lose to Atlanta? The perfect scenario to take over sole possession of first place in the AFC North. Oh well, no one said being a Browns fan was easy. Let’s get to it.
The Good. From one ten-yard line to the other, the offense worked well for the most part. Nick Chubb had 118 yards on 19 carries (6.2-yard average). WR’s Donovan Peoples-Jones and David Bell had some great catches. The defense played well in the second and third quarters, considering they were missing three quarters of their starting defensive line. Atlanta’s Kyle Pitts and Drake London didn’t go crazy. However, the game is four quarters.
The Bad. Play calling inside the ten. Head coach Kevin Stefanski needs to get over the desire to score touchdowns every time in the red zone. On the first drive, kick the field goal and take the points. Don’t give momentum to the other team. I can understand going for it early, but a pass play. Then your starting QB throws the ball out of the endzone. A misdirection play might have worked, or maybe running the NFL’s leading rusher. Speaking of play calling, an end around with the tight end? The Browns need veteran depth at the defensive tackle position. Tommy Togiai isn’t cutting it. Game four and the Browns are still having communication issues in the secondary.
The Ugly. Why do All-Pro players commit stupid penalties? Seven penalties for 51 yards and they come at the worst moments. That’s coaching. Speaking of coaching, did I mention the Browns tried an end around with a tight end? Isn’t this why the team has WR Anthony Schwartz? The defense lost to a quarterback who completed seven passes. Seven.
I know it’s only four games and the Browns are still in first place due to the other coaches in the AFC North having brain farts during games, but this was supposed to be the easy part of the schedule. I still have faith, but like I said, being a Browns fan isn’t easy. Everyone stay safe and Go Browns.