While it’s only Week Three, this game vs the Giants marks a pivotal point in the trajectory of the Cleveland Browns season. Starting 1-2 usually doesn’t bode well for making the playoffs, while starting 2-1 has the opposite effect. The Browns have a real opportunity to take a strong lead in the division as the Bengals and Ravens started 0-2 and we must consider the Steelers starting undefeated, however I don’t view them as a threat for the division title. Let’s look at some keys to tomorrow’s matchup.
Stop Nabers
Last week Malik Nabers was targeted a whopping 17 times, having caught 10 of those for 127 yards and a TD. It is clear that Daniel Jones relies on his rookie star wide receiver in the early stage of the season so Denzel Ward and company will have their hands full containing him. I think limiting his opportunities will force Daniel Jones to look elsewhere and hopefully stall some drives.
Pass Rush
The Browns have started the season off as they did last year, being tied 5th for sacks with seven on the year. While seven sacks are impressive, the browns received a 77.7 pass rush grade earning the 3rd best in the NFL, according to PFF.
Establish a solid run game
It’s no secret the Browns are missing Nick Chubb, but it looks like a few more weeks at least until we see his arrival on the field. We rank 21st for the first two games in rushing, averaging only 109 yards a game. The Giants possess great potential on the ground game for the Browns as they are allowing 163 yards a game through two weeks, so if there’s any week to get the running game going – tomorrow is it.
Stay healthy
I’ve been very clear in my recent previews that staying healthy was the most important “Key” to the game, and that doesn’t change this week. We cannot afford to lose crucial pieces like we did with Jed Wills Jr. and David Njoku.
This week may seem like an easy pass but as we’ve seen time and time again, we must not overlook any opponent. The Giants are a bad team and that’s a fact, but this is the NFL and it’s any given Sunday. Daniel Jones has shown at times to be a dynamic runner and decent quarterback, and we must not allow him to get in rhythm. I look for Myles Garrett to get two sacks and jump start this season in the right direction.
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