Ravens vs. Browns: Observations from studying the Browns

How to attack the Browns Defense:

The injury to Danny Woodhead is a real shame, because he would have torn this defense apart. The Browns linebackers aren’t especially strong in pass coverage. The two strengths of the Browns are their defensive line and their cornerbacks. Other than that, this defense is average across the board. The Ravens should attack the middle of the field for two reasons. First it is what Flacco does best. Secondly it is what the Browns don’t want him to do.

The Steelers exposed one weakness of the Browns. The Steelers put their tight end on the end of the right side of the line of scrimmage. There was no wide receiver to that side of the field. The Browns didn’t even account for the tight end, who picked up a big gain. The Ravens should try a quick striking play or two with this concept. Ben Watson’s speed make him perfect for a potential big play or two.

Running the Ball is the challenge:

The Ravens have to commit to the running game, something they have to do against any team. The problem is however that the Browns are really good against the run up the gut. The Ravens will have to get creative with the rushing attack and will have to stretch the Browns out.  If the do this, they will have more success. Le’Veon Bell only got 32 yards on 10 carries. Bell is a lot better than Terrance West and Buck Allen, so this could pose a challenge.

Next: Ravens vs. Bengals: The Good, Bad & The Ugly

When the Ravens play the Browns it should always be a win. The Ravens are just a better team. The defense should dominate the same way it did against Andy Dalton and the Cincinnati Bengals. The Browns offense is less formidable and Kizer hasn’t seen a defense like the Ravens. This should be a win for Baltimore.