By: Allan Isidro and Clint Byers

In the Thursday night match up between two beat up teams, the Browns were able to squeak out a win in a game where a lot of the players on the injury report were able to play. Initially, I was really concerned about this game, because it seemed like we were going to be missing multiple key players, and while we were missing 4 offensive starters (Baker, Nick Chubb, Jack Conklin, and Donavan Peoples-Jones), we were able to showcase why Kevin Stefanski is reigning coach of the year, as well as prove that D’Ernest Johnson would be a starting running back on over 20 different NFL teams. I said in my preview that in order to win, it would need to be a slow and methodical game where we control time of possession like we normally do, and I’m glad to see we were able to do that (36:51 to 23:09). I also feel that our defense stepped up to the plate in a big way. We only gave up one or two explosive plays, and it looked like our secondary was communicating better on the back end. Myles Garrett was able to log a sack and a half, and this while he’s nursing a knee/ankle injury.

To circle back a bit, I’m extremely proud of our coaching staff and what they were able to accomplish on a short week. There was extreme uncertainty on what personnel was going to be available to them, which can make it tricky to game plan. We were able to go 9-15 on 3rd down, and 1-1 on 4th down. This is crucial for keeping our time of possession high, and with a back up quarterback and third string running back, I think it’s fair to give a lot of the credit to our coaching staff and their play calling. I’m also really proud of Odell Beckham and the heart he showed. After another pass went right through his hands, and he landed on his bad shoulder, I had a thought that it might’ve been the last time we’d see him in a Browns Jersey. However, he came back out there and got two catches in a row, and seeing him getting pumped up on the sideline gave me hope that we can use him to the extent that he deserves. Lastly, it was really nice to see Jarvis out there again. I’ve had the belief that he is the heart and soul of the team, and he instantly was able to make an impact out there and make a few key catches. All and all, it was great to get a win. More importantly, we get 10 days of rest to get as many bodies healthy for an important division game against the Steelers in First Energy. Now, in collaboration with a fellow Relevnt/Pro Sports Fanatics contributor, here’s the takeaways from the Broncos.

After an uninspiring first half of football, the Denver Broncos once again proved that they are a second half team. The Broncos offensively, although very inconsistent, found their rhythm through short plays and manageable drives. As the 28th ranked red zone offense capitalized on each red zone possession scoring two touchdowns thanks to the athleticism of Melvin Gordon and Javonte Williams. From then on the Broncos had chances to pressure Case Keenum and force the Browns to go three and out however with the breakout game of D’Ernest Johnson and smart playcalling by Kevin Stefanski, the Broncos had a tough time on several drives getting the Browns off the field. As a result, allowing the Cleveland Browns to establish momentum and dictate how the game was going to end.

Overall, even though the Broncos showcased zero spirit in the box score and first half, fans can still be appreciative of the team not giving up and creating enough plays to make the score closer than it could’ve been. On offense with nobody truly standing out, some highlights include the O-line protecting Bridgewater, Bridgewater’s pocket awareness to extend plays, and the consistent impact of Kendall Hinton. On defense, with the glaring proof of the Broncos needing an improved rush defense, the secondary did a decent job deflecting passes and negating any further mistakes. Other noteworthy aspects on defense include the secondary not allowing any Browns receivers to reach over 50 yards receiving and the high potential of rookie outside linebacker Jonathan Cooper, who was the MVP of the defense pressuring Keenum when Von Miller was out due to injury.