like_that;937849 wrote:I can see it being one of those games where the offense finally gets it together, but now the defense decides to **** down their legs (i.e. last week defense gets it together only to have ST lose it for them). Browns just seem to be incapable of playing that complete game as a team.
I'd argue the defense had a hand in last week's defeat, also. Not as blatant as the special teams, obviously, but they definitely did not help the Browns -- except for that fourth down stop.
Overall, the defense gave up two very long drives that totaled more than a quarter of the game in time. That's more than a few extra offensive possessions the Browns did not get. Playing bad or not, if you have more possessions, you have a greater chance of scoring (and winning).
They need to find ways to get off the field quicker, and give the offense more chances.
This team is so damn young and inexperienced in so many places that it's hard to say with confidence that any one aspect of it will be good each and every game. That's what you get with growing pains; and you either stay the course and hope you're right, or ditch it all and start over.
I'd prefer to stay the course for at least one more draft and a full season that includes off season activities and a regular camp, before we start pulling everything apart and starting over.