Browns: 3 keys to victory over the Philadelphia Eagles

Use tight ends and Kareem Hunt to force open the passing game

The receivers as a unit have been widely disappointed for one reason or another throughout the season. Combined that with some bad weather lately and the Browns would be wise to incorporate passing plays involving their tight ends and second running back, Kareem Hunt, far more in Week 11. Jarvis Landry is, for at least this year, done as a playmaker. He’s clearly in bad shape and can’t get distance from the secondary. Relying on him is no longer a real option if you have alternatives. Harrison Bryant has played well when called upon and Austin Hooper was a Pro Bowler in Atlanta. Seeing both men used more in the passing game against a suspect Eagles linebacking corps would be a wise move.

The Eagles have a good secondary, as they’re 5th in the league in yards allowed through the air with just 1,906. For comparison, the Seahawks lead the league with 3,437. So the Eagles are really good at taking away deep threats. So attack them underneath and make standout LB/SS Nathan Gerry over pursue until you force him off the field because he’s sucking air. The short passes and screenplays to Hunt will also help keep the defense from getting to Baker Mayfield. The Eagles are 3rd in sacks as a team (Browns are 12th), and even though the Browns offensive line has been good, they are still suspectable to good defensive packages. Jedrick Wills will have his hands full as he deals with the constant blitz packages throughout the game, something he’s struggled with during his rookie year.

Quick passes to your non-wide receivers are the best way to get the passing game going while setting up the run and keeping their offense off the field.