PFF Reveals Highest-Graded Browns Defensive Players
The Cleveland Browns’ defense put forth a valiant effort in Week 3, but it wasn’t enough to overcome offensive struggles in their 21-15 home loss to the New York Giants. The defense would keep the Browns’ in the game, however, the offense faltered, failing to protect Watson and struggling to find consistency. While the defense continues to hold opposing offenses to an average of 23.33 points per game, Cleveland’s inability to pass protect and capitalize in the Red Zone has kept them from finding the win column consistently. Pro Football Focus (PFF) revealed the Browns’ highest-graded defensive players in Week 3, with Myles Garrett unsurprisingly leading the group. Playing through a foot injury, Garrett earned a stellar 92.6 overall defensive grade and an outstanding 93.5 pressure grade. His impact was evident, as he registered nine tackles, three quarterback hits, and six hurries, keeping the Browns competitive throughout the contest.
Linebacker Jordan Hicks posted an 83.5 defensive grade, contributing with solid coverage but struggling with tackling. Defensive tackle Shelby Harris also made an impact, securing two tackles and a 78.7 grade. Cornerback Denzel Ward, with a 76.1 overall grade, provided strong coverage, while Dalvin Tomlinson’s 74.5 grade helped pressure the Giants’ offense, though his tackling left room for improvement.
As the Browns prepare for their Week 4 matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders, the defense remains a bright spot, but the offense must address critical issues. With the Raiders averaging 19.33 points per game, Cleveland’s defense will look to limit Las Vegas, but Watson and the offensive line must improve protection after allowing eight sacks last week. Scoring efficiency and limiting mistakes will be vital if the Browns hope to avoid falling further behind in the competitive AFC North.
Three Disappointments from Browns Ugly Loss
Orange and Brown Have a Lot to Clean Up in Week 4
The Cleveland Browns suffered their second defeat of the season in an ugly loss to the New York Giants. The 21-15 scoreline shows the Browns were close and had many chances to grab this game in a low-scoring affair. There are many phases of the game that can be blamed. Many players and units were simply just not good enough, against a team who is thought of as one of the worst in the league.
The 0-2 Giants marched into Cleveland and simply wanted it more. It was a quick start for the Browns that made it more infuriating that they struggled to grab the lead and put the game away. With a lot of things to blame, here are three disappointments from the Browns second home-loss of the season.
The Offensive Line Abysmal in Ugly Loss
When talking about the Browns especially the offense, the offensive line is at the top of the list of disappointments. Yes, quarterback Deshaun Watson struggles at times to avoid sacks and some are on him. However, the Browns gave up eight sacks. Yes, eight. Along with five tackles for loss and 17 quarterback hits. Some of which fall on Watson, but this ugly loss had a lot to do with the line.
The unit came into the game the most banged up on the team, which only got worse throughout the game. Starting left tackle Jedrick Wills Jr. was questionable and ended up playing his first game of the season. However, he suffered a knee injury and had to leave the game. Right guard Wyatt Teller also suffered a knee injury and is one of the most important players on the team. Even backup tackle James Hudson III got hurt, and this brewed more trouble for the offense. The line had to be shifted all out of sorts and it reared its head in the ugly loss.
