NFL fans rejoice, your beloved sport is finally back! Although it might only be preseason, fans have every reason to feel excited. Football is still football, and that doesn’t change whether it’s training camp, preseason, or the Super Bowl. In a football-crazy city like Cleveland, Browns fans are already gearing up for what is (hopefully) a much better campaign. After going 1-15 last year, the Cleveland Browns are firmly in a rebuilding mode. However, with an uber-athletic draft class now on board, fans are as hyped up as ever. Let’s take a look at how Hue Jackson should attack, or rather what fans should watch for, in this first Browns preseason matchup.
Cleveland Browns Preseason Week One Keys to Victory
What Can Brock Osweiler Give You?
Earlier this week, Jackson announced Brock Osweiler as the starter against the New Orleans Saints. Six months ago, Osweiler came to Cleveland as an afterthought, so having the “Brock Star” start is a pleasant surprise. While he might not start the entire season, it’s important to see what Osweiler brings to the Browns. Jackson will likely be looking for three things, and fans should do the same.
First off, any quarterback in Jackson’s offense needs to be able to throw the long ball. Not only that, but they need to be able to throw it efficiently. Secondly, they have to be versatile. Sure, Osweiler can pass the long ball well, but what about the medium and short game? Finally, any quarterback should be able to hold the team together, and Osweiler is no different. Really, that one speaks for itself. As a quarterback, you must be a leader.
Let the Young Bucks Work
As mentioned before, this Browns draft class is loaded with talent and athleticism. However, being new draftees also means never playing a single snap in the NFL. Therefore, the Browns need to throw their young players out of the college football frying pan, and into the NFL fire.
With top pick Myles Garrett now starting, it will be interesting to see how he does against the Saints tackles. Additionally, Jabrill Peppers should see some serious action if Drew Brees is playing. On the other side, David Njoku and DeShone Kizer might want to find each other a couple of times. That might be a special connection in the future, so it’s best to get started on it now. In all seriousness, it’s imperative that the Browns let their young, developing core play. It could really pay off in the future, and that future is what Cleveland is building towards.
Defense Wins Preseason Games
Some fans were surprised when the Browns hired Gregg Williams in the off-season. Such a prestigious defensive coach, going to a notoriously awful defensive team? Well, that has to speak for something, right? Either way, all that matters is that Gregg Williams is here now, with a great defensive attitude. As long as he’s coaching the Browns, their defense should be at least a little bit better. With improvements like Jason McCourty also joining the team, it’s hard not to get excited about the defense. Truthfully, if Cleveland should walk away winners in this Saints vs. Browns preseason matchup, it’s going to come on the back of the defense.
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