The Browns’ football season seems to have ended prematurely in contrast to the Guardians’ ongoing baseball season. At 1-4, the team’s predicament appears daunting. The shortcomings were evident in their 34-13 loss in a stadium outside of Washington D.C. The team exhibited an incapability to influence either side of the play, leading to penalties and missed chances. The defense’s struggle was complemented by an inept offensive line, with right tackle Dawand Jones being particularly criticized.
A repeated critic of the Browns’ current challenges is the misfit of allegiance to Deshaun Watson. The trade that saw Watson move to Cleveland is regarded as a comprehensive failure. Despite his monumental talent, Watson has been unable to maintain consistency in his performance. Watson’s statistics don’t fare well, with the quarterback’s recent game against the Washington Commanders far from satisfactory – he completed 15 out of 28 passes for 125 yards along with a touchdown amidst seven sacks.
Despite Watson’s poor performance, coach Kevin Stefanski has stated that there will be no change in the quarterback position. This decision is further entrenched by the Browns’ ownership, who remain loyal to the quarterback despite the bleak circumstances. In contrast, the Browns’ offense previously flourished under the leadership of veteran quarterback Joe Flacco. However, the franchise’s efforts to accommodate Watson’s play-style have rendered the offensive strategy dysfunctional.
The offense’s average of 3.8 yards per play in the past five games is a testament to their struggle. The team’s performance has been so abysmal, it’s similar to that of the 1999 expansion Browns. Watson’s contribution to the team’s downfall is not just tied to his performances, but also his influence on the team’s play style.
The Browns’ offensive system, stemming from a compromise to Watson’s preference, is considered inadequate for the other skill players. The current state of Watson’s slow performing receivers is unacceptable in the new system. The team management seems stuck with Watson, reluctant to trade him or bench him.
Watson’s performance has been contrasted to that of his rookie counterpart from the Washington Commanders: Jayden Daniels. Daniels’ performance, which has been outstanding, reinstates the role a confident quarterback can have on the performance of a struggling franchise. The current state of the Browns’ quarterback reflects an unstable phase casting a shadow on the team’s fortunes. With Watson’s detrimental influence on the franchise becoming increasingly prominent, the Browns are facing an uphill battle.
