Cleveland Browns Defensive Struggles Highlighted in Jets Game
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The Cleveland Browns defense faced significant scrutiny following their Week 10 matchup against the New York Jets, where they allowed a staggering 27 points. According to Dawgs By Nature, the pivotal moment came early in the fourth quarter when the Browns, after successfully stopping a trick run play and putting the Jets in a 2nd-and-17 situation, opted for an aggressive blitz against Jets quarterback Justin Fields.
This decision backfired when Fields executed a quick screen pass to running back Breece Hall, who then sprinted 42 yards for a touchdown. Despite Fields having only 12 passing yards before that play, the Browns' defensive strategy proved costly, leading to questions about their decision-making under pressure.
The report highlights that the Browns' defense made one critical mistake, yet the final score reflected deeper issues with their overall performance. Examining the defensive snap counts, Myles Garrett logged 44 snaps, achieving 2 tackles, 1 sack, and 2 tackles for loss, but his performance was rated below expectations with a Pro Football Focus grade of 64.7.
Meanwhile, Mason Graham shone with a grade of 82.1, but Maliek Collins struggled, grading out as the worst defender at 38.9. Defensive depth was tested as Alex Wright exited early due to injury, increasing responsibilities for Cameron Thomas, who committed a late-game offsides penalty that compounded the Browns' struggles.
In the linebacker corps, Carson Schwesinger played all 49 snaps despite expectations of potentially missing time, contributing 4 tackles and half a sack, yet his overall PFF grade was a disappointing 47.2.
Devin Bush also had a tough outing, receiving a grade of 49.6. In the secondary, cornerback Tyson Campbell performed well, earning a grade of 79.1, while safety Grant Delpit stood out with a top grade of 82.2, along with Ronnie Hickman, who made a crucial interception.
The Browns' defensive lapses, particularly in critical moments, emphasize the need for strategic adjustments as they move forward in the season. Sources indicate that the team's ability to make necessary corrections will be vital for their upcoming matchups as they strive to maintain their competitive edge in the league.