Browns Preseason: 3 things we learned, 3 things we need to still find out
By Chad Porto
What We Know
Joe Woods will run lots of 4-3 and blitz
A lot of fans seem to think that the Browns will run mostly just two linebackers at a time out there under Joe Woods’ scheme but the game against the Jaguars proved that just isn’t the case. Not only that but Woods’ proved that 2020’s lack of blitzing had zero to do with defensive preferences and more to do with a lack of personnel. Making it even more confusing that the Browns’ didn’t chase down Clay Matthews III last year. Woods showed a lot of unique stunts and blitz packages last night and hopefully, we get to see more of that when the big-ticket players are on the field.
Johnny Stanton can play
Yes, this is a “humble-brag” of sorts, but Johnn Stanton proved last night that our two-season long praise of his talents was rightly placed. While Stanton was met at the line of scrimmage a time or two too often, that’s mostly on the offensive line, which struggled all night to open up holes. Thankfully for Stanton and every other running back on the team, the Browns’ offensive line starters didn’t see a single down all night. So this won’t be the norm. Stanton no longer has to settle for being a fullback either, as he can clearly play running back. Not just that, but his versatility allows him to line up as a fullback or tight end as well, depending on need.
There are some good pieces on their second team line, but only some
This is what we know, not what is good, and what we know is that the offensive line has three good backups, and that’s it. Chris Hubbard, Blake Hance, and Michael Dunn all played well and got great traction all night. Nick Harris and James Hudson; not so much. Then there were guys like Colby Gossett, Drew Forbes, Cordel Iwuagwu, and Alex Taylor who were just not impressive against the Jaguars’ third-team defense. The line’s had a hard time opening up holes all night against a very bad Jaguars defense. While the team has some good, versatile depth in some spots, they better pray they’re not stuck with Harris or Hudson for long periods of time.