Kevin Stefanski confirms the rain played a part in inconsistent offense for Browns in Week 1
Cleveland Browns may have walked away from Week 1 with a 24-3 win over the Cincinnati Bengals, but that wasn’t because of the offense. There was rain moving sideways at the game, it was one of the weirder things you’ll see in terms of weather on the lake. Today, Kevin Stefanski confirmed that the offense […]
Cleveland Browns may have walked away from Week 1 with a 24-3 win over the Cincinnati Bengals, but that wasn’t because of the offense.
There was rain moving sideways at the game, it was one of the weirder things you’ll see in terms of weather on the lake. Today, Kevin Stefanski confirmed that the offense had a hand in the passing struggles.
"I think the ball was heavy and wet. It was strange. I did not know it was going to rain,” Stefanski explained during his media availability. “It was to our advantage. We found a way to move the ball, put some points on the board. But, it definitely had an impact on the passing game."
Deshaun Watson was the better quarterback in the game, but neither he nor Joe Burrow played particularly well in the passing aspect. Watson was just 16-of-29 for 154 yards, as well as a touchdown and interception. Cleveland’s quarterback added a rushing touchdown and 45 yards on the ground. When it comes to Watson running the ball, there will be several factors week in and week out.
“I think it's going to be dependent on the game and the moment, Stefanski spoke. “That's a huge part of what we do. The game and the different game plans will determine how often that occurs."
Burrow was a miserable 14-for-31 for just 82 yards. The highest-paid player in the NFL had a much tougher time with the rain, even going to a glove at one point. The other factor that Burrow played against was a swarming defensive line and a secondary that played a great game for the Browns.
"Dominant defensive performance,” said Stefanski. “Offensively, moved the ball, made some plays. Still a lot of opportunities. Special teams, Dustin was really good. A bunch of different guys playing well in that phase."
Cleveland played well in all three aspects of the game and that’s something they’ll need to build off of to start the season. Next week in Pittsburgh will be no easy task.
Browns lose RT Jack Conklin for the season in Week 1 against Bengals
It is an unfortunate injury for the Pro Bowl right tackle.
Featured image via Sam Greene/The Enquirer-USA TODAY NETWORK.
