The Cleveland Browns took the field against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Saturday night, August 14.
This was the first preseason game for both teams, and the Browns outlasted the Jags winning by a score of 23-13.
Those of us watching on the NFL Network were bombarded with stories about new Jags coach Urban Meyer and the first overall pick, quarterback Trevor Lawrence.
However, the Cleveland Browns stole the show with a sold “A-” performance.
They controlled the game in practically every facet.
Here’s how they controlled the game and earned the “A-” grade.
Offense
The Browns’ offense with both Case Keenum and Kyle Lauletta moved the ball down the field easily.
They employed the screen pass which the Jags did not have an answer for.
Receivers went up for balls and hauled them in more often than not.
There were good play calls and on-the-field decisions by the Browns offense.
Defense
Who will forget that Sheldon Day welcomed Lawrence to the NFL with a sack on his first NFL snap?
The Browns’ defense was solid throughout the game.
Tight tackling and no blown coverages were the hallmarks of the day for the Browns D.
We even saw an interception from rookie Richard LeCounte III off of Jaguars quarterback Gardner Minshew.
Kick/Punt Return
The Browns need to improve in this area.
10 yards was the longest run back on a kickoff by rookie Demetric Felton.
Field Goal And Extra Point Conversions
The tag team of Cody Parkey and Chase McLaughlin was perfect on Saturday night.
Though Parkey added extra drama to the 48-yard field goal by hitting the upright before sailing through, his effort added three points on the scoreboard.
Between the two kickers, the Browns made three field goals and two extra points.
Running Game Was The Only Issue
Whereas the other facets of the game seemed to be on point, the running game was far from it.
Collectively, the Browns rushed for 41 yards.
The Jags effectively shut it down forcing the Browns quarterbacks to put the ball in the air.
Fortunately, the Browns quarterbacks were up to the challenge, and both played well.
Maybe it is not a huge deal given the starters were not in the game; however, a successful ground attack is pivotal for the Browns offense.
It is not clear if it is the result of the backup lineman or the running backs; likely, it was a little bit of both.
Next Preseason Game
The Browns host the New York Giants this week for both joint practice sessions and a preseason game on Sunday, August 22 at 1 pm.
No one knows if or when the starters will be involved in this game.
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