2020 Cleveland Browns

[redsfandan]

I didn't see a 2020 thread so why not.

The Browns just signed Pro Bowl tight end Austin Hooper (formerly of the Falcons) to a 4 year/$44 million contract meaning that he (and Hunter Henry of the Chargers) will be the highest paid tight ends in the league. With all the weapons that Baker Mayfield will have I'm wondering if they'll include some 2 tight end formations (with David Njoku). Add a couple offensive lineman and a couple upgrades on defense and who knows. Could be an exciting offense if they improve the offensive line and Mayfield plays more like he did in 2018.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Also signed Jack Conklin and Case Keenum yesterday. Pretty solid day 1. Maybe paid a little bit too much for Hooper, but he is really good.

[North]

Browns announce signings of defensive tackle Andrew Billings, center Evan Brown
Updated 11:37 AM; Today 11:18 AM

https://www.cleveland.com/browns/2020/03/browns-announce-signings-of-defensive-tackle-andrew-billings-center-evan-brown.html

[GAC]

I've been so "preoccupied" with everything else that's going on around now, no baseball, I have completely forgot about the NFL off-season, free agency signings, and upcoming draft (lol)

The Conklin and Hooper signings were nice. You'll probably see more two TE sets with Njoku. I like the Keenum signing as a vet/backup. But they still have a glaring hole at LT. And that could be Andrew Thomas .... https://dawgpounddaily.com/2020/04/06/retooling-cleveland-browns-6-0-post-free-agency-mock-draft/2/

[BuckeyeRed27]

I've been so "preoccupied" with everything else that's going on around now, no baseball, I have completely forgot about the NFL off-season, free agency signings, and upcoming draft (lol)

The Conklin and Hooper signings were nice. You'll probably see more two TE sets with Njoku. I like the Keenum signing as a vet/backup. But they still have a glaring hole at LT. And that could be Andrew Thomas .... https://dawgpounddaily.com/2020/04/06/retooling-cleveland-browns-6-0-post-free-agency-mock-draft/2/

Thomas is a great pick if he's still there at 10. Good news for the Browns is they are almost definitely taking a LT and there are a few good options.

[Kingspoint]

BY SAM PANAYOTOVICH

The Cleveland Browns were a wise guy sleeper pick heading into the 2020 NFL season. It was nowhere near as ridiculous as last year, when it felt like everybody was talking about them making a run under Freddie Kitchens.

Cleveland was actually bet this year pretty noticeably to win the division and to make the playoffs. One Las Vegas sportsbook was down to Browns +100 to make the postseason before kickoff on Sunday.

Then Baltimore blasted 'em 38-6. So that's a wrap, the Ravens won the division! Right?

Wrong.

PointsBet Sportsbook is now offering the Browns at +1000 to win the AFC North after one loss. So Cleveland went from +300 to +1000 after 60 minutes of football. That's insane. Baltimore is clearly the division favorite (-250), but dropping a team that much after one loss seems like quite an overreaction.

[Kingspoint]

From Rotoworld's Gary Davenport...

Cleveland Browns (vs. Cincinnati Bengals)

If you watched the Clowns get boat-raced by the Baltimore Ravens in Week 1, then you may be wondering if I have taken up a new hobby—like say day-drinking. As a Browns fan, the thought has admittedly crossed my mind. But there's quite a bit of difference between playing a 14-2 team led by the reigning NFL MVP and a 2-14 team led by a rookie making his second start after no preseason. In a Week 1 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers, Cincinnati tallied fewer than 300 yards of offense, scored just one touchdown, surrendered three sacks, and turned it over twice.

[GAC]

Halfway through the third quarter the Browns are putting a hurtin' on the Cowboys 38 to 14. Wow!

[RedTeamGo!]

What is going on?

[Bob Sheed]

Clearly the apocalypse.

The Browns just blew out a respectable team.

[Assembly Hall]

See ya next week....



Colts fan

[RedTeamGo!]

Clearly the apocalypse.

The Browns just blew out a respectable team.

Blew out? They were getting pretty close to blowing it at the end.

[GAC]

Blew out? They were getting pretty close to blowing it at the end.

Yep .. 41-38. OJB saved the day and put the lid down. Wild game.

The Browns go up 7-0 on a trick play, and Dallas comes back with 14 unanswered points, and the Browns defense couldn't stop them. Prescott had 175 yds passing after the 1Q (lol). Some how adjustments were made defensively because the Browns shut them down in the 2nd and 3rd quarters, while creating turnovers. Looking at those players on the field in the 4th quarter - they were tired, gasping for air. But Prescott 502 yds passing, 4 TDs, and they still lost? Crazy!

So far, with this Stefanski-run team, I'm liking the 2020 version of Mayfield much better. This is a run-oriented team, and when successful it opens up the passing game. But it has taken a lot of the pressure off of Mayfield. And I can't say enough of this re-tooled offensive line which has played pretty solid so far in opening up those lanes, while also protecting Mayfield, giving plays time to develop (this wasn't happening last year, big problem). But the last 3 games Mayfield has had a RTG of 110.6, 117.3, and 100 (yesterday). He's averaging 20-30 ATTs/G, which has also cut down on the INTs (lol).

I'm thinking Chubb's will be OK, but we'll see. Gets an MRI today. But his loss certainly didn't halt their running attack. Quite impressed with rookies Johnson and Hilliard. 307 yards rushing, and 264 yards minus Chubbs.

[GAC]

https://www.clevelandbrowns.com/news/browns-determined-to-keep-nfl-s-top-ranked-running-attack-rolling-without-nick-c

Lets hope so, because the Colts come into Cleveland this Sunday.

[Kingspoint]

Browns just got a huge break. The Colts look like they'll be missing their best Defensive Player, an All-Pro, who shuts down everything up the middle.

[BuckeyeRed27]

It doesn't seem to get talked about much nationally, at least not yet, but Myles Garrett has been unbelievable. Browns are probably 2-3 right now if not for his play. He probably doesn't ever change the narrative about himself after the helmet thing last year, but he's the best player in the NFL so far this season.

[Kingspoint]

Bucky Brooks just predicted the Browns will win the Division.

[kaldaniels]

Bucky Brooks just predicted the Browns will win the Division.

I do believe in teams getting it together as the season goes by but it will take a lot more to get me to believe that drubbing by Baltimore didn’t show the current pecking order in the division.

Bucky is out over his skis I do believe.

[Kingspoint]

I do believe in teams getting it together as the season goes by but it will take a lot more to get me to believe that drubbing by Baltimore didn’t show the current pecking order in the division.

Bucky is out over his skis I do believe.

The other analysts broke out in laughter when he said it.

[GAC]

I do believe in teams getting it together as the season goes by but it will take a lot more to get me to believe that drubbing by Baltimore didn’t show the current pecking order in the division.

With no pre-season, I don't put too much stock in first games. Who have the Ravens played? Three of their wins are against pretty bad teams (Texans, Washington, Bengals). Other then the Browns, they've played the Chiefs, and lost. They have Philadelphia this week. The pecking order may still run through Pittsburgh, who is undefeated, and we'll find out in a couple weeks when the Steelers come to Baltimore.

Hoping the Browns throw a moneky-wrench into that that this week when they visit Pittsburgh.

[GAC]

The one thing I didn't want the Browns to do was go into Pittsburgh and be an embarassment, put up a fight and even if you lose, you looked like you belonged on that field.

They didn't.

IMO, Mayfield should not have started. He's questionable due to battling a rib injury, Pitt knows this (he can't scramble right now, and isn't as effective in the pocket), and the #1 defense in the NFL, who knows how to pressure QBs, went off on him (lol). I would have went with Keenum the whole game. Change things up, and see if Pitt was prepared for him.

When you lose, are basically humiliated, to the two teams that have reigned in this division (Baltimore, Pittsburgh), then the question has been answered ... and you ain't there yet. I like HC Stefanski. I think they got the right guy for the job. Our defensive secondary is atrocious (because they're always hurt). It was a huge eye sore last year too.

I have no idea what will occur next Sunday in Cincinnati (LOL)

[BuckeyeRed27]

You are spot on about starting Keenum. Baker was clearly hurt. Once Pittsburgh saw how limited he was they just loaded up the box to stop the run and came after Baker and that was that. Pittsburgh is a better team and probably wins anyway, but Browns didn't give themselves a chance. Not sure there is much more to take way from Sunday than that.

[GAC]

There's a lot of debate going on in Brown fan "circles" (FB, various forums, etc) that are beginning to question whether Baker is the guy to lead this team when surrounded with all this talent (and a solid O-line). I stay out of such frays (LOL). The guy has had how many HCs and offensive coordinators instituting new offensive schemes since he's been here? So I don't have any answer on that front as of yet.

When he came out of college, one of the positive critiques on Mayfield while at Oklahoma was that he was a mobile QB who found great success outside the pocket and improvising. Quite dangerous actually. And one of the knocks on him was his height. Last year, for the most part, he had no offensive line, no time for plays to develop, and put a lot on his shoulders, which resulted in high INTs. This year, under Stefanski's run-oriented, ball control offense - and he has the talent - Baker has been more "controlled".

Just from watching him this year, it seems Baker does have far more success outside the pocket then within. And when one looks at the INTs he's thrown, wondering where he was throwing the ball, questions are arising that while in the pocket his field of vision is not that good due to his height.

But we're 4-2 and not the laughingstock of the NFL. All I know is this .... if the Browns lose to the Bengals this Sunday - and yes it's possible IMO - and Mayfield does not have a good game? Then more scrutiny will be coming Mayfield's way IMO.

[Kingspoint]

Mayfield just had the best Half of his career, completely destroying an excellent Titans Defense.

Browns are going to 9-3.

[RedTeamGo!]

This is wild

[BuckeyeRed27]

Tonight has to be the biggest Browns game since they were reestablished as a team right?

Big stage on Monday night, playing the Ravens, chance to essentially clinch a playoff spot and knock Baltimore out and pull within 1 game of the division lead.

[RedTeamGo!]

Tonight has to be the biggest Browns game since they were reestablished as a team right?

Big stage on Monday night, playing the Ravens, chance to essentially clinch a playoff spot and knock Baltimore out and pull within 1 game of the division lead.

I mean, they went to the playoffs in like 2001 or something.

[BuckeyeRed27]

I mean, they went to the playoffs in like 2001 or something.

Right, lost to the Steelers. So second biggest game?

[kaldaniels]

I don’t think the “narrative” around the Browns has been this big since the return.

Now, depending on the thickness of your tinfoil hat, “narrative” will have different meanings.

[RedTeamGo!]

So sick of the Ravens

[BuckeyeRed27]

That was a great game and also completely sucked equally.

[GAC]

That was one helluva game. I had to take a muscle relaxer to sleep afterwards, I was so wound up. My emotions were all over the place watching that game thinking one minute we're gonna lose this game to we got a shot here, I think we're gonna pull this out!

We simply could not stop their running game. Even when that was their primary weapon all night. I think Jackson had more pass attempts in that last minute then all night (lol). I thought he would pass more because our secondary has been decimated all year, and is now minus Ward. But they didn't have to pass. It was very frustrating watching this Brown's D give up such large chunks rushing. That, and their secondary, they have to address going into next year.

Hats off to my Browns who didn't fold after being down 14 pts early in the 3Q though. They fought back, showed resilience. IMO, this is a team that has grown, under a new HC and scheme, since the beginning of the season. I blew off that Opening Day blow-out to the Ravens simply because there was no pre-season, limited practices/contact.

But I thought we were gonna pull it out with the Two Minute Warning and Sorley at QB. Then with 1:51 left on the clock here comes Jackson. RUT ROH! :lol:

Not too bummed though. Almost 500 total yards for the Browns, and almost 400 for the Ravens. It definitely wasn't a defensive struggle, but both defenses have been decimated by injury too.

The Browns face the Giants next weekend, and they have to win this game. They finish in Cleveland vs the Steelers. I'm not satisfied with "they had a winning season". LOL

[Kingspoint]

I won my fantasy playoff game by less than a point with that Tucker kick. Had it been a 49-yarder, I would have lost by less than half a point

[Assembly Hall]

I am still holding out hope the Brownies can win the North.

[GAC]

I am still holding out hope the Brownies can win the North.

Pitt faces Indy in a couple weeks. Help us out (lol)

[RedTeamGo!]

lol, got my entire family Browns shirts for Xmas to officially become a browns family. My son was so excited. And then this happens. Such a bummer.

[BuckeyeRed27]

lol, got my entire family Browns shirts for Xmas to officially become a browns family. My son was so excited. And then this happens. Such a bummer.

They’ll be alright. Can probably beat the Steelers anyway and Pittsburgh will likely be resting everyone. I am assuming the NFL won’t make the Browns play without an entire offensive unit missing again of course.

[redsfandan]

The Steelers are resting Big Ben and starting Mason Rudolph instead. That helps the Browns chances and it'll be Rudolph/Myles Garrett 2.0 which could be interesting.

[GAC]

lol, got my entire family Browns shirts for Xmas to officially become a browns family. My son was so excited. And then this happens. Such a bummer.

Tell your son "Welcome to Browns-dom. If you an survive this, then you can survive anything!" LOL

[GAC]

The Steelers are resting Big Ben and starting Mason Rudolph instead. That helps the Browns chances and it'll be Rudolph/Myles Garrett 2.0 which could be interesting.

When I first read we are going to be without CB Ward I thought "Yeah, stick that knife in a little deeper". Then I read where they're resting Big Ben as well as other starters, and I thought "It's about time we got a break!"

Now take advantage of it Brownies! IMO, the Steelers are trying to give you the game.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Hey look who made the playoffs!

[kaldaniels]

Browns @ Steelers next Sunday 8:15 pm

[Betterread]

Congratulations Browns Fans. So proud of Kevin Stefanski.

[GAC]

If the Brown's season had ended yesterday I still wouldn't be disappointed in them. Under Stefanski, his offensive scheme that maximizes their talent (run-oriented and play action). But I'd say the biggest move made by new GM Berry ws hiring prioritizing fixing a horrendous O-line by hiring offensive line coach Bill Callahan, signing FA Conklin (Tenn) and drafting Jedrick Wills (10th). The O-line has been spectacular this year.

This organization, for once, is trending in the right direction.

Initially, after the game, I wss somewhat disappointed at their performance vs a depleted Steeler team via resting players and covid. You let a backup QB (Rudolph) put 300+ yds on you? You had to hang on at the end when it came down to a 2-pont conversion by Pitt? But the Browns were missing key players too, and all on defense ... LB B.J. Goodson, LB Malcolm Smith, CB Denzel Ward, CB Kevin Johnson, S Andrew Sendejo.

The Browns are going to have to play their best game of the year next week IN Pittsburgh. Especially when it comes to ball control (run game), and minimize the time Pitt's offense is on the field. I'm hoping they can pressure Ben and he has an off day. He's had some this year. It's gonna be rought though IMO.

Losing that game to the Jets really hurt them, as far as play-off placement. But you're in the play-offs and you're gonna have to face these teams anyway to get where you're going. I just hate Pitt being the first game (lol).

https://media.tenor.com/images/8d21f92df362352f8b16d5f349f7fa13/tenor.gif

[BuckeyeRed27]

Getting the game on Sunday instead of Saturday could be huge in terms of getting Ward and Sendejo back. I think the 10th day for all of them was Saturday. There's been some rumors that Greedy Williams might be available too. I don't think Pittsburgh can run the ball, so getting the secondary as healthy as possible is key. No offense to that Jackson kid they ran out yesterday, but the drop off from Ward is massive.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Stefanski, 2 other coaches and 2 players (a WR and OL) have tested positive for Covid.

Great.

[GAC]

Stefanski, 2 other coaches and 2 players (a WR and OL) have tested positive for Covid.

Great.

We're friggin' cursed man! LOL And if that ain't enough, then there is this (lol) ...

https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/30658390/cleveland-browns-wr-rashard-higgins-cited-drag-racing

[BuckeyeRed27]

We're friggin' cursed man! LOL And if that ain't enough, then there is this (lol) ...

https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/30658390/cleveland-browns-wr-rashard-higgins-cited-drag-racing

Drag racing in Westlake is pretty funny for some reason. Not exactly the setting for a Fast & Furious movie.

[WVRed]

Followed the Browns when Tim Couch was there for obvious reasons. As bad as the Bengals were though I never could make the switch.

Not today though.

On behalf of Bengals fans everywhere please kick the Steelers ass tonight. We would all be eternally grateful. [emoji846]

[phatknuckle]

Followed the Browns when Tim Couch was there for obvious reasons. As bad as the Bengals were though I never could make the switch.

Not today though.

On behalf of Bengals fans everywhere please kick the Steelers ass tonight. We would all be eternally grateful. [emoji846]

In addition to seeing the hated Steelers lose it would mean the Bengals take over as the team with the longest playoff win drought in the NFL. Something to strive for.

[redsfandan]

I think I like how this game has started.

[757690]

Did the Bengals kidnap the Steelers and put on their uniforms and replace them on the field?

[redsfandan]

This is so unexpected but so cool. lol

[Kingspoint]

Steelers 2021: Quickest to ever give up 28 points in a playoff game in the history of the NFL. The luster is gone.

[RedsBaron]

I keep expecting the Steelers to show up and assert control.....but I am enjoying this game immensely, and I 'm not a Browns fan (usually).

[RedTeamGo!]

Drag racing in Westlake is pretty funny for some reason. Not exactly the setting for a Fast & Furious movie.

My buddy lives in Westlake, a bar was crashed into near his house a couple years ago by a guy driving down Detroit going like 100 being chased by police. I think it’s called Dover Gardens or something. Real ****ty bar.

On the flip side: one of the best dive bears in NE Ohio is The Rusty Barrel in Westlake. My friend and I go there every NFL draft. In fact, it’s where I watched the last Buckeye national championship game!

[RedTeamGo!]

This has been amazing. Let my 5 year old son stay up late to watch the first quarter. He was so excited. Kind of memory I’ll remember for the rest of my life!

[WVRed]

I keep expecting the Steelers to show up and assert control.....but I am enjoying this game immensely, and I 'm not a Browns fan (usually).

I also keep thinking the Browns are the type of team that can blow a 28-0 lead as well.

[RedTeamGo!]

Why wasn’t that reviewed????

[adkindo]

I also keep thinking the Browns are the type of team that can blow a 28-0 lead as well.

I was thinking when the Steelers scored, all of the long time Browns fans probably went into panic mode.

[WVRed]

Touchdown!

[Wonderful Monds]

Man I’m just bummed as a Bengals fan that they won’t be good enough to take advantage of a potential Steelers downswing now that Roethlisbeger looks like he’s toast.

[redsfandan]

Man I’m just bummed as a Bengals fan that they won’t be good enough to take advantage of a potential Steelers downswing now that Roethlisbeger looks like he’s toast.

That's up to the Bengals. They're not that far away if they make the right moves.

[RedTeamGo!]

Ughhhhhhhhhhh

- - - Updated - - -


Man I’m just bummed as a Bengals fan that they won’t be good enough to take advantage of a potential Steelers downswing now that Roethlisbeger looks like he’s toast.

Roethlisberger is now carving the Browns up en route to one of the greatest comebacks in NFL postseason history

[RedTeamGo!]

What in the world are the browns doing on offense and defense???

[KronoRed]

It's the prevent O and D

[WVRed]

I really want to be wrong.

[Assembly Hall]

What in the world are the browns doing on offense and defense???

Pissing the game away?

[RedTeamGo!]

Hold up!!! Great possession!!! Tomlin screwed up punting and the Browns took advantage. What a screen by Chubb. He’s fantastic.

[adkindo]

That's up to the Bengals. They're not that far away if they make the right moves.

I agree, the Bengals are close enough that if the Steelers regroup/rebuild post Ben before the Bengals are Divisional/Conference contenders....something went wrong in Cincinnati.

[redsfandan]

What a game for big ben, 60 passes, 424 yards, 3 touchdowns, and 4 picks.

[SteelSD]

Congrats, Cleveland fans. I've never seen a less surprising "upset" in my life, nor have I often seen a team more deserving of winning a playoff game as the Browns tonight. Well done, Browns, and I'll be rooting for them when they take on KC.

[RedTeamGo!]

So awesome.

[BuckeyeRed27]

I’m so happy this happened against the Steelers.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Nonstop fireworks going off here in Cleveland since the game ended.

[GAC]

Congrats, Cleveland fans. I've never seen a less surprising "upset" in my life, nor have I often seen a team more deserving of winning a playoff game as the Browns tonight. Well done, Browns, and I'll be rooting for them when they take on KC.

I know the Steelers have been on the down-hill side over the last month; but besides having to travel to Pittsburgh (which is bad enough lol), I wasn't carrying good vibes after covid and injuries sent a pretty depleted Brown's team into the play-offs. Obviously the history is a factor, and not on the Brown's side. Now add to that we had to use back-ups in both coaching and on the field ... lost DE Vernon to injury, Garrett played (shoulder) banged up, and no Ward and a depleted secondary. I thought that would spell disaster facing BB. But I thought the "icing on the cake", as far as squelching any hope of a Brown's victory, was the loss of All Pro Guard Bitonio who was the rock of that offensive line, protects Baker, vs Pittsburgh's defensive front.

I never thought I'd see a Steeler team that couldn't run the ball. Wow! That put a lot of pressure on an aging Big Ben.

The only answer I have for last night's victory is that the Browns won it on heart, soul, and grit. I'm impressed and amazed.

[Redsfaithful]

Congrats GAC (and other Browns fans here), that's a long time coming.

[Bob Sheed]

I know the Steelers have been on the down-hill side over the last month; but besides having to travel to Pittsburgh (which is bad enough lol), I wasn't carrying good vibes after covid and injuries sent a pretty depleted Brown's team into the play-offs. Obviously the history is a factor, and not on the Brown's side. Now add to that we had to use back-ups in both coaching and on the field ... lost DE Vernon to injury, Garrett played (shoulder) banged up, and no Ward and a depleted secondary. I thought that would spell disaster facing BB. But I thought the "icing on the cake", as far as squelching any hope of a Brown's victory, was the loss of All Pro Guard Bitonio who was the rock of that offensive line, protects Baker, vs Pittsburgh's defensive front.

I never thought I'd see a Steeler team that couldn't run the ball. Wow! That put a lot of pressure on an aging Big Ben.

The only answer I have for last night's victory is that the Browns won it on heart, soul, and grit. I'm impressed and amazed.

Ryan Finley and Bengals beat Pittsburgh.

It's Ben. He stinks right now.

But congrats. Great game last night.

[WVRed]

Ryan Finley and Bengals beat Pittsburgh.

It's Ben. He stinks right now.

But congrats. Great game last night.

Pittsburgh was gassed going into the end of the season due to their schedule and it showed. The fans complained but I haven’t seen the players or coaches.

Roethlisberger looked done in the picture I saw. Sitting on the bench with nobody around him.

[kaldaniels]

A lot of it was game circumstance related but Ben broke the NFL record for completions in a game last night (47).

That last INT was mind-numbingly bad but on a lot of the others it was the Browns making a play. Stewart caught an INT that most guys drop. One INT was tipped at the line. Those 4 INT are a big “yeah but”, but other than that he was carving Cleveland up. Some was maybe due to the prevent, but Cleveland’s secondary was extremely outmanned. Kinda surprised they didn’t take big deep shots to Claypool.

So as a Browns fan I gotta say Ben wasn’t awful...I thought it was a gritty performance. I still hate him though!

[BuckeyeRed27]

A lot of it was game circumstance related but Ben broke the NFL record for completions in a game last night (47).

That last INT was mind-numbingly bad but on a lot of the others it was the Browns making a play. Stewart caught an INT that most guys drop. One INT was tipped at the line. Those 4 INT are a big “yeah but”, but other than that he was carving Cleveland up. Some was maybe due to the prevent, but Cleveland’s secondary was extremely outmanned. Kinda surprised they didn’t take big deep shots to Claypool.

So as a Browns fan I gotta say Ben wasn’t awful...I thought it was a gritty performance. I still hate him though!

I think he was awful. He couldn’t take deep shots because of the defense and any time they held the ball longer than 3 seconds a browns lineman was in the backfield. He took what was given to him and largely threw a bunch of 7 yard dump offs. Every time the Browns played their real defense he threw an interception or was missing passes.

[kaldaniels]

Love Jim Dovovan.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lJYBTQyrMP0

[GAC]

Pitt WR Claypool, after the loss, said " the Browns are going to get clapped next week so it's all good". Pittsburgh Steeler players, when they lose, IMO, are sore losers who still feel the need to run their mouths.

And now KC WR Watkins takes a shot and says we're not competition. LOL

Browns fans, and players, are use to this stuff. And it's no problem because we have been down so long we've earned that "image". I have no problem wth them having to prove themselves. Doing a decent job so far.

[Assembly Hall]

Ya gonna have me jumpin' on the bandwagon again today. Go Browns.

[Kingspoint]

Rotoworld's take:

Baker Mayfield completed 23-of-37 passes for 204 yards, one touchdown and an interception in the Browns' 22-17, Divisional Round loss to the Chiefs. With everything on the line, Mayfield was shaky, especially early. He was not helped by drops, offensive line injuries and awful game management from rookie coach Kevin Stefanski. Although it was not Mayfield's finest hour, he played well enough for the Browns to beat a team that lost Patrick Mahomes for the final 20 minutes. The Browns just could not get out of their own way, especially with 1:42 remaining in the second quarter, where Rashard Higgins fumbled a potential 49-yard touchdown out the back of the end zone. Nothing cost the Browns more than Stefanski's second half game management. 2020 was the best season of 25-year-old Mayfield's pro career, but he still created too little offense on his own. Mayfield needs the run game humming and the play-calling clicking to really elevate his squad. He remains one of the league's very worst quarterbacks when pressured. That's not a trait that usually improves. With Odell Beckham's Browns future in question, Mayfield could have limited weapons as a passer in 2021.

[GAC]

I give credit where credit's due - to Andy Reid who went into that game with the right plan - stop the Brown's run game. They did a solid job, and it also didn't help when the Brown's O-line lost Wills early. BIG loss there. I thought Stefanski made some adjustmens at halftime, and it showed. But other then Mayfield's INT, that resulted in a missed FG, Mayfield was moving the team in the 2nd half. They were shooting themselves in the foot, but he wasn't the culprit IMO. And one of the biggest culprits for the Bowns all year has been their secondary.

I don't understand where they say he's one of the very worse performing QBs under pressure? He's had a far better year this year then last, but even at the conclusion of the '19 season, behind of the NFL's worst offensive lines, there were a lot of other starting QBs that performed worse them him under pressure .... https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-ranking-quarterbacks-pressure-2019-season

IMO, he is turning the corner and showing maturity, better decision-making with the ball. This kid has had how many different HCs, along with coaching staff and playbook to learn, in the three short years he's been here? And this is also Stefanski's rookie season as a HC. We've come a long way from 0-16.

I think Stefanski didn't call a good game in the 4th quarter. Chubb was having a rough day, they were keying on him, and when he did put a fresh Hunt in there he was being more effective. But he stopped it, and went back with Chubb. I know Chubb was the one who got you there, but again, in this game - adapt. And he certainly didn't manage his TOs and clock well in the 4Q. My biggest beef was with the defensive coordinator and some of the lop-sided lineups and schemes he was utilizing.

But the Browns had opportunities and simply did not take advantage. But it didn't help matters with the refs screwing them on that non-call for targeting and helmet-to-helmet hit at the goal line on Higgins. And they did review it because it was a goal line play ... and still missed it! Even the lead review guy in NY called it.

Browns are in a touch division. How can any Brown fan not be excited at their performance this season? Address you secondary, and get LBer help for Garrett.

[Redsfaithful]

It drives me absolutely crazy when a guy fumbles during or after head to head contact and its not called. It shows how little they really care about safety, even now.

I was pulling for the Browns, but I still didn't expect them to come that close. Upgrading the defense would go a long way all around, because that's a team built to play with a lead, not to come from behind.

[RedTeamGo!]

I give credit where credit's due - to Andy Reid who went into that game with the right plan - stop the Brown's run game. They did a solid job, and it also didn't help when the Brown's O-line lost Wills early. BIG loss there. I thought Stefanski made some adjustmens at halftime, and it showed. But other then Mayfield's INT, that resulted in a missed FG, Mayfield was moving the team in the 2nd half. They were shooting themselves in the foot, but he wasn't the culprit IMO. And one of the biggest culprits for the Bowns all year has been their secondary.

I don't understand where they say he's one of the very worse performing QBs under pressure? He's had a far better year this year then last, but even at the conclusion of the '19 season, behind of the NFL's worst offensive lines, there were a lot of other starting QBs that performed worse them him under pressure .... https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-ranking-quarterbacks-pressure-2019-season

IMO, he is turning the corner and showing maturity, better decision-making with the ball. This kid has had how many different HCs, along with coaching staff and playbook to learn, in the three short years he's been here? And this is also Stefanski's rookie season as a HC. We've come a long way from 0-16.

I think Stefanski didn't call a good game in the 4th quarter. Chubb was having a rough day, they were keying on him, and when he did put a fresh Hunt in there he was being more effective. But he stopped it, and went back with Chubb. I know Chubb was the one who got you there, but again, in this game - adapt. And he certainly didn't manage his TOs and clock well in the 4Q. My biggest beef was with the defensive coordinator and some of the lop-sided lineups and schemes he was utilizing.

But the Browns had opportunities and simply did not take advantage. But it didn't help matters with the refs screwing them on that non-call for targeting and helmet-to-helmet hit at the goal line on Higgins. And they did review it because it was a goal line play ... and still missed it! Even the lead review guy in NY called it.

Browns are in a touch division. How can any Brown fan not be excited at their performance this season? Address you secondary, and get LBer help for Garrett.

I was a Mayfield skeptic before this season but he proved me wrong. He was very good this year.

[GAC]

I was a Mayfield skeptic before this season but he proved me wrong. He was very good this year.

I didn't support drafting him. Josh Allen was my guy! LOL But here's the thing. I was listening to the ESPNs and experts "stereotypes" of Mayfield (shortness, etc) and believed them. And it ws also why, by many, there were other QBs more "worthy" of being drafted #1 then Mayfield. He wasn't in the running. Until late.

But once he was drafted, and over the Summer, I started doing more research on him by some pretty respected articles that do a pretty deep analysis/critique. I was impressed. And of course it comes down to the type of offensive scheme they're in. Is it a setting where they can thrive? But the various QB grading stats and scores they gave him opened my eyes some. At Oklahoma, he thrived on play action and improvising.

I just think it has been a combination of issues with Baker .... maturity, consistency with a good head coach who may know what he's doing, and also knows what offensive scheme will thrive with the talent he has assembled (not just Mayfield).

2020 showed how much the offense was gelling ... but it also showed their huge weaknesses on the defensive side of the ball. The Browns have had a lot of bad look with injuries in '20 to our secondary. Greedy has been out all season (shoulder nerve damage), but was close to returning for the play-offs. Then there was standout rookie Safety Delpit who tore his Achilles in training camp. Talented player at LSU, and winner of the Jim Thorpe Award. So the question for Brown's management is - how much do you trust these two to be healthy, win the starting position and stay healthy? Yeah, I think both could be a big help, but.....

They also have to address the LBer position. I'm tired of watching these guys get burned all the time on underneath coverage and crossing patterns before and after the catch! LOL

Defense has to be the priority with this draft and FA market IMO.

[Assembly Hall]

Hopefully, I get to see the Browns a little more often next year.

[GAC]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Er9v1JkXcAcU-Kb?format=jpg&name=small

[GAC]

Hopefully, I get to see the Browns a little more often next year.

I live right smack-dab in central Ohio, and I have a hard time gettting them. Why? Because the Bengal's broadcast region covers almost 90% of the state (lol). I don't have cable or satellite, we stream. But it doesn't matter the source, my "locals" are always out of Dayton even though I'm closer to Columbus. So what team do you think the CBS Dayton station is broadcasting a majority of the time?

Before they went switched from analog to digital I could get both Columbus and Dayton stations via an internal antenna. Not Columbus anymore. But if I put up an outside aerial I can. So that is what I am looking at doing come warm weather.

[redsfandan]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Er9v1JkXcAcU-Kb?format=jpg&name=small

It's interesting that there doesn't seem to be that much talk about this. It's like: "It's the Browns, who cares?".

[BuckeyeRed27]

It's interesting that there doesn't seem to be that much talk about this. It's like: "It's the Browns, who cares?".

It's insane. Had this happened to one of the NFL chosen teams, this would still be talked about and there would be rule changes and review changes coming this offseason.

[RedTeamGo!]

It's interesting that there doesn't seem to be that much talk about this. It's like: "It's the Browns, who cares?".

The crazy thing about this play was that it was clear Sorensen did it deliberately.

[kaldaniels]

Pretend you are there on the field as a DB and Higgins is about to score. How can you decide to just drop your arms to your side and propel yourself forward headfirst? I like my brain.

[GAC]

I just think it's another example of just how bad the ref's have been in the NFL this year. They did review it, only because it was a goal-line play, and still seemed to put the "binders" on when it came to the illegal hit. It was almost like "Yeah, we see it; but that's not why we're reviewing the play, so we can't take that into consideration." LOL

As for that NFL rule on fumbling the ball through the endzone, and why it still exists, this article explains the reasoning (and it's from four years ago) ...

https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/nfl-official-explains-why-one-of-footballs-worst-rules-exists-in-the-first-place


“Because the goal line is involved — and this is a consistent application of the impetus rule,” Blandino said. “Impetus is the force that puts the ball into an end zone. So if a team provides the impetus that puts a ball into their opponent’s end zone . . . then they are responsible for it. They’re responsible for it. And if the ball gets out of bounds through the end zone then it is a touchback. [...]

“Now that may seem like an egregious penalty but again, think about it, they put the ball into their opponent’s end zone,” Blandino said. “If it’s not fourth down or inside two minutes, if they recover it, it’s a score. So that’s potentially a big play, so the penalty for not recovering it . . . has to be big as well. That’s why it’s a touchback. That’s consistent with other loose balls that go into an opponent’s end zone. Kicks, punts, fumbles, backward passes."

Wait, what?

If that seems like a roundabout explanation, Blandino clarified things with his conclusion:

“You’re responsible for putting the ball into your opponent’s end zone, you’re responsible for recovering it,” Blandino said. “If you don’t and it goes out of bounds or the defense recovers, they’ve defended their goal line, and they get a touchback.”

And that's the simplest explanation I've ever heard for that rule. Taking a shot at the end zone is essentially a risk in the rule book, with the reward naturally being a touchdown. If the offense chooses to advance the ball across the goal line in any way, it is responsible for securing possession if things go poorly.