That’s the on way to describe the Lions game. After beating the Packers where all three phases of this team contributed, watching two of the three not even play average, thud is the only word I can use. I had my doubts going in they could win, but this Browns defense is elite and in games like this one they can drag them to an improbable victory. But the offense and the unspecial teams were directly responsible for 24 of the Lions 34 points. Basically, the Browns defense only allowed ten points. as with the Green Bay game where they only allowed 10 points. I still believe the Browns will win more than three games, just because of the defense.
The big topic going into the Vikings game is who should start at quarterback. I’m still not there on replacing Flacco. Everyone saw the first six games of the season on the schedule and knew it would be tough. I said I would be happy with 2-4 after six games and the Browns are still on track to achieve that goal. Their next two games are against the Vikings in London and the Steelers in Pittsburg. Both teams can play very good defense and I don’t want a rookie having to face either. Besides, Dillon Gabriel is left-handed, so the Browns would have to shore up the right tackle spot. The team did trade for Cam Robinson, a true left tackle, but unless you can guarantee Jack Conklin will play, there’s not a chance I would start Gabriel.
As for the Lions game, the only good things I can say is running back Quinshon Judkins is the real deal. As is Isaiah Bond. I think he’s ready to step into the number two wide receiver spot. The Browns need to give him more opportunities. But they need to protect the QB. I have no doubt they plug Robinson right into the left tackle spot and if Conklin plays, then Flacco will have the time to throw. This will be the fifth OL combination is five games. Robinson isn’t the long-term solution at LT, but he’s a hell of a lot better than KT Leveston. It’ll be a tall task to keep Jonathan Greenard, Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave off the QB. One saving grace is edge Andrew Van Grinkel is not expected to play.
The defense is playing well, very well. I think they’ve found their number three cornerback in Myles Hardin. Unfortunately, this week the defense has to content with wide receivers Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison and Adam Thielen. There’s word out of Minnesota J.J. McCarthy will practice this week, but I’ve heard they’ll wait till after their bye to bring him back to start. So, it looks like the Browns will face Carson Wentz. Also, the Vikings right tackle Brian O’Neill will not play because he was injured during last week’s game.
I still don’t like the fact that the Vikings are playing back-to-back games overseas and get to stay for two weeks. The Browns have to travel tomorrow, a wasted practice day, then travel back to play the Steelers the next week, after Pittsburg has a bye. Screw you NFL. Everyone stay safe and Go Browns.