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Thursday, September 4, 2008
Browns fever subsiding a bit?
Three days before the opener I’m sensing the fervor over this team has subsided to a degree.
Maybe that’s a good thing, though, when you stop and think about it.
Expectations were getting to be a bit out of whack. I mean, there were even people (OK, me) suggesting this team could be a Super Bowl contender with a few breaks.
So, what can we expect, realistically? Probably about 9-7, postseason fate decided in the last week of the season. At least that’s the record I’m predicting. And, yes, I think they’ll slip into the playoffs, end their nine-game losing streak to Pittsburgh, go at least 4-2 in the AFC North and generally be pretty fun to watch.
As for beating the Cowboys on Sunday, it’s not the long shot you might think, although I don’t believe the defense will fare particularly well this early against Tony Romo, Terrell Owens, Jason Witten and those running backs, so a victory is probably going to require scoring close to 30 points if not more.
I’m envisioning an exciting game and, frankly, a Browns victory spurred by an emotionally charged crowd.
The big question in general is whether the defense can avoid the kind of swiss-cheese impersonation it gave last season when the opposition gained an average of 4.5 yards per rushing attempt.
If not, the offense had better click as it clicked last season. Right from the start. And while that’s a tall order, I think it’s going to happen simply because of the talent that’s lining up on that side of the ball.
Braylon Edwards might not be in top shape after missing so much of the preseason with that ridiculous heel gash, but this is a guy who’s as motivated as anyone to have a big year and to star when the spotlight is shining brightest.
Jamal Lewis, assuming his hamstring is OK, should be just as productive as last season. Same for Kellen Winslow. Then you throw in Donte Stallworth, who should divert some of the coverage from Edwards and Winslow.
As for the quarterback, I see no reason to believe Derek Anderson won’t succeed again, assuming good health.
What they can’t afford are any more injuries on the offensive line. They are tissue paper-thin up front until Ryan Tucker and Rex Hadnot are ready.
If the defense does end up being better than last year’s, chances are it will be a gradual process. The two second-year cornerbacks, Brandon McDonald and Eric Wright, will be exposed some, especially if the pass rush is deficient again. But they should be OK over time.
Safety Sean Jones has a balky knee and the other safety, Brodney Pool, is coming off a concussion, so who knows what you’re going to get from them.
What’s needed is for rookie linebacker Alex Hall to become an impact pass rusher, taking some of the pressure off Kamerion Wimbley. Too much to ask of a seventh-round draft choice from St. Augustine College? Maybe. But that’s the kind of pleasant surprise that takes a team from the fringe of the playoffs to a legitimate Super Bowl contender.
Overall, despite the injuries and the 0-4 preseason, I still think it’s appropriate to feel good about this team and where it’s headed.
