Possible biggest question coming into 2023 for the Browns is showing early signs of great success
There were big questions and expectations going into the 2023 season about the Cleveland Browns defense. A lot of the potential success for the team fell on the nature of whether or not the defense would perform. Early returns show that just that is happening. Through three weeks, there is not a better defense in […]
There were big questions and expectations going into the 2023 season about the Cleveland Browns defense. A lot of the potential success for the team fell on the nature of whether or not the defense would perform.
Early returns show that just that is happening. Through three weeks, there is not a better defense in the NFL than the Browns.
When bringing in Jim Schwartz and a revamped secondary, the was cautious optimism that the defense could be excellent. We say cautious, because things don’t always go to plan for the Browns.
Cleveland is allowing just 188 total yards a game, which ranks first in the NFL. In total net yards against the Tennessee Titans in Week 3, the Browns allowed just over 90 when you factor in sack loss. The total yards number ranks first in the NFL, so you know passing yards allowed (111.7) and rushing yards allowed (52) will be high up there too. Well, they’re both first in the NFL to this point.
The Browns are allowing just 10.7 points per game. Even crazier, the Browns are getting their defense off the field at the best rate in the NFL. Opponents are succeeding on third downs at just 19.5 percent.
Myles Garrett is off to a blistering start of 4.5 sacks through three games after 3.5 sacks in Week 3. The difference is he had an entire unit playing well. New edge rushers like Za’Darius Smith and Ogbonnia Okoronkwo are playing well, as are defensive tackles Dalvin Tomlinson and Maurice Hurst. Safety Juan Thornhill’s presence is felt on the back half, as is Rodney McLeod’s when is out there.
Combine that with what was already here, for example, a good cornerback room consisting of Denzel Ward, Martin Emerson Jr., and Greg Newsome II, the Browns have a complete unit right now. It’s happening at all three levels.
Granted, the Browns’ first three opponents offenses have been no juggernaut. Cincinnati Bengals are dealing with Joe Burrow’s injury and the weather in that game was not ideal. Then, neither the Steelers nor the Titans have great offenses. With that being said, you can’t take away from what the Browns are doing.
In Week 4, it’ll be a bigger test against Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens. But so far is so good for the Browns’ defense and the investments they’ve made have them at the top of the NFL.
Winners and losers from Browns Week 3 win over the Titans
Winners and losers from the blowout win.
Featured image via Andrew Nelles / The Tennessean-USA TODAY NETWORK.
