5 Critical Changes Browns Must Make in Their Final Five Games
The Cleveland Browns have five remaining games that will determine their playoff fate. Here are the critical changes needed for postseason success:
- Team Culture
- Recent concerning quotes from players indicate focus issues
- Myles Garrett noted lack of team preparation
- John Johnson III mentioned team "laying down" in losses
- Need stronger leadership and identity at 6-6
- Offensive Playcalling
- Scored over 17 points just once since October 10
- Only 7 points total in fourth quarters during that span
- Must increase rushing attempts (only 17 carries vs Ravens)
- Need better utilization of Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt
- Adapt to injuries (Njoku and Bryant out) by involving WRs more
- Quarterback Performance
- Baker Mayfield struggling since Week 2 labrum tear
- Additional injuries: fractured humerus and heel issues
- Shows flashes of 2020 success but needs consistency
- Coaching staff must trust him in key situations
- Defensive Consistency
- Facing elite QBs in final stretch: Jackson, Carr, Rodgers, Roethlisberger, Burrow
- Strong defensive showings last two weeks
- Must avoid 40+ point collapses like New England and LA games
- Penalty Discipline
- Currently 6th most penalized team in NFL
- Pre-snap penalties consistently killing drives
- Upcoming opponents (Harbaugh, Tomlin, LaFleur) will capitalize on mistakes
- Must improve discipline against well-coached teams
The Browns are favored against Baltimore this Sunday at FirstEnergy Stadium, marking the start of this crucial five-game stretch.
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