It has been a lot of fun to watch the defense of the Cleveland Browns under Jim Schwartz who has been downright dominant. Opposing offenses have converted only eight third downs in 41 tries which is a perfect 19.8%. They have been aggressive and smart and the defensive line is handling opposing offensive lines with relative ease.
According to ESPN’s Jake Trotter, the Browns defense ranks number one in efficiency. And PFF says the team has allowed -39 rushing yards before contact meaning consistently they are making contact with ball carriers in the backfield.
Buy Browns TicketsThe night and day difference between the Browns’ defensive tackles defending the run and rushing the passer is incredible. Maurice Hurst finally healthy has shown he is an elite-level athlete with a great explosion off the line of scrimmage.
The team has only allowed one touchdown this season with 39 drivers which is impressive. According to Dan Murphy with the Browns PR team, the 491 total yards allowed through three games is the third-fewest in the NFL since 1970.
With the upgrades at defensive tackle and defensive end, the linebackers have flourished as they have been kept clean. Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah has been playing at a high level showing the speed and athleticism that made him a top prospect in the NFL Draft.
It was a down year for Denzel Ward last year and he played some of his best football against the Titans Sunday. This defense has some ridiculous stats and has been the best in the NFL through three games. You can hear about these topics and more by watching this week’s podcast by clicking here.
