Cleveland Browns vs LA Chargers: Week 13 Q & A with LA Sports Hub
By Ryan Rosko
The Cleveland Browns are still looking for their first win of the season. This week, they are facing the Los Angeles Chargers, the team they defeated for their lone win last year. Coincidence?
Under the current Cleveland Browns‘ regime supervision, only one win has been earned, which was last season on Christmas Eve.
There’s been a number of changes on both sides of the ball. Most notably, a new location for the Chargers and another starting quarterback in DeShone Kizer for the Browns. As the hours draw near, the hope is that Cleveland gets a repeat of last season this weekend.
For that to happen though, a lot has to work in their favor.
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To get more insight on Sunday’s game, I discussed this week’s showdown with LA Sports Hub‘s Site Expert Jason Reed.
FoS: The Browns knocked off the Chargers for their lone win last season. How concerning or worrisome is it to the fanbase that history could repeat itself again this year?
LASH: Realistically, it shouldn’t be at all. The Chargers are hot right now and look like one of the most talented teams in the league.
Their defense is scary good and Keenan Allen has rediscovered the ability to get open every passing down. But as a fan myself, last year’s loss has caused slight worry, especially because that would be the most “Chargers” way to lose our playoff chance.
FoS: Melvin Gordon has been more of a miss than a hit this season. Why has that been the case and could that change on Sunday and moving forward?
LASH: I just think it has been the Chargers tough schedule. Gordon came up against some of the best defenses in the league (Broncos twice, Eagles, Jaguars).
While the production has been a dip from last season he has put together strong showings against the Patriots, Giants, Bills, and Raiders. He has ran the ball less this year and is still averaging his career average 3.7 yards per carry.
I think with an improved passing game the Chargers are just relying on him to run the ball less.
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FoS: The Browns have the eighth best run defense. Giving Gordon’s inconsistencies at times, along with Cleveland’s stellar run defense, should fans expect to see Philip Rivers air it out as much as possible instead?
LASH: The way Keenan Allen is playing I would pass it every single down. The Chargers may try and air it out early to get a quick lead. If they do get the big lead, expect Gordon and Austin Ekeler to be busy draining the clock.
FoS: Are Melvin Ingram and Joey Bosa the Chargers’ keys to winning Sunday?
LASH: Yes and no. Realistically, the Chargers offense is so talented they should be able to win even with bad showings from the duo. However, a strong performance from them both will cement the win.
FoS: Are you expecting Josh Gordon to have an impressive season debut?
LASH: If the Browns can find time to get Gordon open than yes. Casey Hayward is still questionable for the game as he left the team to be with his family following his brother’s death in a car crash.
Without the AFC Defensive Player of the Month, Gordon will have a better chance of making plays happen. However, the inexperience of the Browns’ QBs mixed with the pass rush of the Chargers will make it hard to get Gordon those big looks.
I expect a lot of targets, however, if anyone I would be worried about Duke Johnson Jr. The Browns’ best shot at getting the offense going early is feeding that check down pass to Johnson.
Next: Just getting to Sunday is Josh Gordon's real victory
Before we know it, fans will see whether or not a repeat of last season will happen. FoS thanks Jason for taking the time out to discuss Sunday’s game.