Crossing up the Competition
The Cleveland Browns came into the 2023 NFL season with a lot of question marks. How will new quarterback Deshaun Watson fare in his first full season? Will Jim Schwartz be able to transform the defense? Will Coach Kevin Stefanski open up the playbook for his new toys? Most of these questions were answered in their convincing 24-3 victory over the rival Cincinnati Bengals.
On a very rainy day in northeast Ohio, the so-called “elves” of Cleveland came out with energy many fans haven't seen to start off an NFL season. The offense looked bought into the system, the newly built defensive line was suffocating, and the defensive backs were flying all over the field. Newly highest paid player Joe Burrow looked very uneasy anytime there was a passing down, the Browns were clicking on all cylinders. Did they have slightly more motivation then usual due to Jamarr Chase’s comments? Maybe, but the improvements all around the field was evident
A lot of praise goes to Jim Schwartz for having his squad ready to go against a top offense in this league. Fans also found out early how huge it was signing Zadarius Smith & Ogbo Okoronko as they made their presence known early, while ole reliable Myles Garrett reminded you he is still one of the best. The secondary was night and day to last year. Denzel Ward looked motivated, Greg Newsome was feisty, MJ Emmerson looked like a seasoned vet in his second year, and lastly Grant Delpit looked like an all-pro safety. It's unknown if this group can sustain this success. But if this first game tells us anything, it's that this group will bring their A-game every trip.
The offense was slightly handicapped due to the terrible weather conditions. Watson was underthrowing receivers, Jerome Ford fumbled, Amari Cooper couldn't keep his footing, it was a mess. That being said, there is rain in the forecast for Monday Night Football in Pittsburgh. The Steelers defense is always formidable, it will be a great test for this new Browns offense against a tough divisional opponent. The goal is to beat Pittsburgh and go 2-0 for the first time in 29 years. This new Browns regime is ready to cross over the competition!
Tory Pierce
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