The Good, Bad & Ugly: Breaking Down Browns' 16-14 Loss to Raiders

The Good, Bad & Ugly: Breaking Down Browns' 16-14 Loss to Raiders

By Michael Harrison

January 7, 2025 at 01:51 PM

The Cleveland Browns suffered a crucial 16-14 loss to the Las Vegas Raiders, though their playoff hopes remain alive. Here's a breakdown of the key aspects from the game:

The Good: Defense

  • Strong defensive performance despite Myles Garrett's groin injury
  • Forced two turnovers including a Greedy Williams interception
  • Limited Raiders to just 16 points
  • Garrett nearly blocked the game-winning field goal

The Bad: Special Teams

  • Chase McLaughlin missed his only field goal attempt (0/1)
  • Raiders' Daniel Carlson was perfect (3/3)
  • Kicking difference proved decisive in the 16-14 result

The Ugly: Offense

  • Persistent scoring issues despite decent individual performances
  • Nick Mullens ranked as PFF's fourth-highest graded QB
  • Nick Chubb had solid production (23 carries, 91 yards, 1 TD)
  • Failed to convert crucial first downs to seal victories (similar to Chiefs and Chargers games)
  • Conservative play-calling approach
  • Offense struggling to score more than 17 points per game
  • Fundamental issues with offensive philosophy and playbook design
  • Short passes on third-and-long situations highlight strategic problems

The loss exemplifies deeper offensive issues that extend beyond quarterback play or individual play-calling decisions. The team's conservative "play not to lose" approach appears to be a systemic problem requiring comprehensive offseason changes.

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