Cleveland Browns Snap Counts vs Houston Texans & Quick Takeaways

Key Offensive Takeaways

Quarterback - The pressure was on Watson to perform after Monken's answers during the week and failing to name him as the quarterback on Tuesday. Not only did he play one of his best games of the season but the Browns also won. There will be no question, he will start after the bye. This will hopefully mean the offensive coaching staff can have their full focus on the run game.

Running Back/Fullback - While the snap counts go into Sampson's favor again, Judkins leads 10 rushes to 4. Sampson edges the receiving game with 4 to 3. Both had a great game of pass blocking on the first watch.

Wide Receiver - There were good moments in the game for everyone and plays they wish they could have back. Malachi Corley had a statement game where he made it clear he was the teams fourth wide receiver if there was any doubt remaining. With one snap in two weeks we have to start wondering why Bond is active on game day as he doesn't play much special teams. They have given him a few snaps but he hasn't shown much. He will need to take a step forward to make it out of camp next year.

Tight End - I will need to take a closer look at special teams but Ryan and Mitchell-Paden appear to be a waste or active roster spots. I am shocked they can't find more on waivers, a practice squad or free agency.

Offensive Line - They did a phenomenal job with Howard leading the group yet again. What makes it more impressive is PFF currently has Watson's time to throw at 2.89, so they had to block longer than the 2.5 seconds you ideally want your line to do it for. Run blocking could improve but it didn't feel like a clear weakness today.

Defensive Snap Counts

The defensive snap counts for the season so far.

Key Defensive Takeaways:

Edge Defender - Not a great game for the edge room. Williams continues to generate pressure at an incredible rate but gets dominated in the run game.

Defensive Tackle - Mason Graham still has should return to high pass rushing levels after the bye but it felt like he was dominant in the run game. Kamara was clearly their third defensive tackle, while he isn't a pass rushing star, he gives them serviceable play against the run. Huntington had his first good game this season against the run on much less snaps, he feels like an effective ninth defensive lineman. While it is a luxury, it is worth having as he is effective on special teams.

Linebacker - The starters have the rights to call themselves the best duo in the NFL and in clearly in that conversation. It was the most we have seen from Mascarenas-Arnold since week one and he played well. I wonder if it will give them more confidence to mix in some three linebacker looks.

Cornerback - The outside duo were incredible and should give them great play for several more years. Harden plays a tough position on the inside but is doing a good job. He felt hard done by on the penalty. With Hickman out they played the most cornerbacks per snap since week two.

Safety - McNeil-Warren was good in his first full game, he played 95% after a Delpit injury in week six but other than that he has been a role player. His performances have been better as a role player but it will take time and he will continue to grow into the starting role, ready for next year. Daniel Thomas was always going to make the roster as a core special teamer and a depth safety, people some how had him behind McMillon heading into camp, but based on snaps it is clear he is safety four for the coaching staff.