Browns overcome major obstacle to defeat Bears to move to 9-5

Cleveland Browns went into Week 15 already in a tough spot with three offensive linemen down and out.

Then it got worse for the Browns. Joel Bitonio exited with back tightness and was never able to return. Bitonio, who is known for being an Ironman at the position, was a big loss for the Browns.

Wyatt Teller was the lone starter out there for the Browns in Week 15 against the Chicago Bears. Still, Cleveland found a way to get it done and win 20-17. 

It was a hurtful impact for the Browns. Joe Flacco was dropped four times and three of the sacks were recorded by Montez Sweat. Cleveland’s running game was never able to get going either, as the Browns ran for just 19 yards.

Losing Jack Conklin early in the year didn’t hurt much because Dawand Jones was able to step in and be suitable at right tackle. Then, Jedrick Wills Jr. went down at left tackle and forced the Browns to start Geron Christian. Jones became the second right tackle lost for the season, so it was already known the Browns would start backup tackles the rest of the way. With Bitonio having to exit and Ethan Pocic being out with a stinger, Cleveland was always going to be facing an uphill battle in Week 15.

It didn’t help that Nick Harris went down early in the fourth quarter, so Cleveland had to turn to rookie C Luke Wypler. It was that kind of day for the Browns. It’s been that kind of season for the Browns.

Operating with a backup quarterback and an offensive line full of backups is a recuperating for full-on disaster. It won’t be sustainable to make the playoffs with, the Browns will need some help back along the offensive line. The hope is that Bitonio’s injury isn’t anything to worry about.

The Browns will take the 374 yard and two touchdown performance from Flacco, even if it came with three interceptions, as long as they win.

Cleveland’s win puts them at 9-5 on the season and in prime position to make the playoffs.