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Josh McDaniels faces a tall task when preparing the New England Patriots’ offense for a Week 8 matchup against the Cleveland Browns.
The Browns rank 30th in total offense and points, but a stout defense has allowed an NFL-low 256.1 yards per game. New England must protect Drake Maye from Myles Garrett and a fierce defensive line this Sunday at Gillette Stadium.
Josh McDaniels commended Cleveland’s front four ahead of the Week 8 contest, per PatsPulpit’s Brian Hines. The offensive coordinator called the grouping one of the NFL’s best-coached units.
“This is as big a challenge as we’ve had all year, no question,” McDaniels said. “Their front four is exceptional. It’s not just Myles.”
Garrett has continued to terrorize opposing offenses with five sacks and 10 quarterback hits this season. The four-time All-Pro recorded two of those hits in Sunday’s 31-6 win over the Miami Dolphins.
But as McDaniels noted, it’s not a one-man show. Offseason additions have made an instant impact in Cleveland.
Upon joining his fifth team in 10 seasons, defensive tackle Maliek Collins has 3.5 sacks for a defense permitting just 3.3 yards per carry. No. 5 pick Mason Graham has started his career with 17 tackles and three pressures in seven games.
Alex Wright has garnered two sacks, a forced fumble and six tackles for a loss. The former third-round pick is earning more snaps over Isaiah McGuire.
To McDaniels’ point, the Patriots have yet to face a top-10 defense beyond the No. 7 Carolina Panthers this season. The Browns represent a significant test to a flourishing unit that’s scored 121 points during an ongoing four-game winning streak.
Sunday’s game between the Patriots and Browns starts at 1 p.m. ET on Fox.
