Cleveland Browns: Studs and duds from Week 2 win vs. Bengals
Cleveland Browns Stud No. 4: Defensive Line
As mentioned, the Browns were consistently able to get pressure on Burrow throughout the night and make plays. Myles Garrett was the most consistent pressure-generator on the line, as expected, garnering a sack-fumble and three total QB hits. However, Adrian Clayborn (who left late with an injury) had two sacks while Sheldon Richardson had one of his own and continued to be a stud alongside Larry Ogunjobi. Even Porter Gustin came in and did his job well.
Cleveland didn’t have starting defensive end Olivier Vernon for this game, which is why Clayborn got such heavy burn prior to his injury. However, the Browns showcased their efforts to add depth in the trenches in this game while also still having some of their young high-class talent as well. If the issues behind them can get sorted out, the pieces for an upper-tier defense are there up front.
Cleveland Browns Dud No. 2: Closing ability
It may seem odd to criticize the Browns’ closing ability in a game that they won by five points. However, they found themselves in some situations they truly shouldn’t have. Whether it was Burrow driving down the field for a late touchdown (and a backdoor cover) to set up an onside kick, albeit an unsuccessful one, or not converting on four plays from the 1-yard line, there were some shaky moments.
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For as much of a feel-good game as this was for the Cleveland Browns, a franchise that has been so mired in losing has to, excuse the cliche, learn how to win in these moments. That includes buckling down to close out games on defense while also converting door-slamming opportunities on offense. Hopefully that comes with time because it wasn’t there on Thursday.