The Cleveland Browns’ defense lit up the Dolphins in Week 7. Unlike the past few weeks, when quarterbacks got the ball out quick, you could tell that Tua was lost and out of his element, and the Browns smelled blood in the water. The best statistic of all was that Miami was just 1-of-11 (7.7%) on third down, and also 2-of-4 (50%) on fourth down. Cleveland forced three turnovers on the defensive side of the ball, all interceptions, and held Tua to 100 yards passing.
Below, we analyze the snap counts and stats on defense for the Cleveland Browns’ Week 7 game against the Miami Dolphins.
Defensive Line
- It was great to see Myles Garrett back on the sack sheet, and he also had a run stop for a loss. He was the Browns’ third-highest graded player on defense by PFF, grading out to an 85.5.
- The Browns also had standout performances up front from Mason Graham (79.0), Alex Wright (84.3), Shelby Harris (73.2), Maliek Collins (71.9), and Isaiah McGuire (71.7). It’s a great day when you have that many defensive linemen graded in the 70s.
- Adin Huntington exited early with a concussion.
Linebacker
- Even though there was at least one play where we saw Carson Schwesinger darting through to get a tackle for a loss, for the third week in a row, he was one of the Browns’ lowest-graded defenders. In fact, he was graded the worst this week with a 54.9, per PFF. I think we’re seeing teams break open some plays that Schwesinger is committing to too early, and then he’s chasing from behind before you know it.
- Devin Bush continues his solid season, as he graded out to a 78.0. Jerome Baker also graded highly with an 86.6, despite having just 16 snaps.
Cornerback
- Everyone is singing the praises of Tyson Campbell. I often talk about the negative point swings that a guy on offense like Jerry Jeudy has had this season, but Campbell had quite a few positive point swings this week. He used his speed to chase down RB De’Von Achane and prevent a touchdown, and then began the second half with a pick six. Meanwhile, Greg Newsome is helping the Browns cause by allowing touchdowns in Jacksonville. Campbell graded out to a 74.2 by PFF, with his run defense being dinged.
- According to PFF, Denzel Ward had 2 pass rushing snaps, as Cleveland seemed to bring blitzes from more unique spots this week, as opposed to just linebackers coming.
- Myles Harden nearly had an interception, but couldn’t hang on to it.
- When the Browns were up big, they put the backups in on defense, which is why you see reps for guys like Tre Avery and Dom Jones.
Safety
- What a game for the Browns’ safeties this week. They combined for two interceptions, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. Although, I should note that the fumble was on...
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