The two games coming up between the Browns and Steelers is shaping up to be
Cleveland's playoffs.
For me as a fan, two wins over the Black and Gold would salvage this sorry
season.
Who knows? This could be the last two games against the Steelers while
Cowher is the head coach.
He hasn't signed (yet) for 2007 and I'm sure he's looking for big bucks or
more control.
Beating the Steelers twice and sending Cowher out of Pittsburgh with two losses
against the Browns would be something to savor.
I think it's still possible for them to finish 6-2 in the second half and
even their record at 8-8.
How?
Cleveland needs to establish an identity, especially on offense.
Run Droughns, get Edwards and Winslow 5-6 catches apiece per game, help Frye
stay upright and make better decisions.
Cleveland's offensive line problems are as obvious as Crennel's waist line.
Without improvement none of what I just wrote is possible.
We have to get better play from the trenches otherwise Frye will join Tim
Couch fora permanent golf vacation sooner rather than later.
In the second half of the season Cleveland should simplify their offense with
3-step drops and a heavy dose of Droughns to take the pressure off Frye.
Defensively?
They've shown some solid performances. If the offense can keep them off
the field maybe they won't wear down so much at the end of games.
Granted, the pass rush is still anemic and they have lapses in the run D but
overall this is an improved unit, especially when you consider all the injuries
they've suffered.
Crennel is a defensive minded coach so I'm not so worried about the long-term
prospects for the D as much as I am the O (or lack thereof).
The injury bug bit Cleveland hard this year but they're not the only team
suffering. The key for them is to hold it together as much as possible in
the last eight games, fight hard and realize that a lot of backups are getting
valuable playing time.
I hate to say this will all help us next season but in reality the Browns
have been thrust into rebuilding mode once again.
I think the team can gel and earn some wins and respect to build on for 2007.
It's up to the players and coaching staff now to make sure that happens.
Just A Thought
Who is the most important person on a pro football team?
QB, LT, dominant pass rusher, LB?
I say follow the money.
Who is getting the biggest bucks on the team?
That's a pretty good indicator.