Browns' Offense Struggles in Season Opener: Key Takeaways from 33-17 Loss

The Cleveland Browns' 2024 NFL season began on a disappointing note with a 33-17 loss to the Dallas Cowboys. The game, held on September 8, 2024, exposed several issues for the Browns, including a lack of offensive rhythm, costly penalties, and inconsistent defensive play. Here’s a closer look at the major takeaways from the season opener.

1. Offensive Struggles Dominate the Game

The Browns had a tough time finding their offensive rhythm throughout the game. Despite a promising start with a 51-yard field goal by kicker Dustin Hopkins on their opening drive, the offense faltered in subsequent possessions. After that initial drive, the Browns were unable to advance beyond a few plays on four consecutive drives, resulting in three-and-outs. Over the course of the game, the Browns had to punt the ball away seven times.

Quarterback Deshaun Watson faced significant challenges, getting sacked six times and hit a total of 17 times. His performance was further marred by two interceptions. The first pick came in the second quarter when a pass intended for Elijah Moore was intercepted by Trevon Diggs, thanks to a deflection by linebacker Micah Parsons. The second interception occurred in the fourth quarter, also intended for Moore, but this time caught by Diggs.

Head coach Kevin Stefanski acknowledged the offensive line’s shortcomings in protecting Watson and stressed the need for improvement. “I think there are things we can do better,” Stefanski said. “We had plenty of time to prepare but did not get it done today.” The Browns managed to score two touchdowns in the second half. The first was a 6-yard pass from Watson to receiver Jerry Jeudy, marking Jeudy’s first touchdown with the team. The second touchdown came late in the game with a 2-yard run from running back Jerome Ford. Despite these efforts, the Browns could not overcome the earlier setbacks.

2. Defensive Bright Spots and Weaknesses

The Browns' defense had some early success but struggled to maintain consistency throughout the game. Defensive tackle Dalvin Tomlinson set the tone early with a sack of Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott on the opening drive. Defensive end Myles Garrett also contributed with a sack at the start of the second quarter.

In the first half, the Browns' defense managed to force the Cowboys to punt three times and limited them to just one touchdown. However, Dallas took advantage of the Browns’ mistakes and poor field position. The Cowboys scored three field goals, all from kicker Brandon Aubrey, and added a 60-yard punt return touchdown, taking advantage of their favorable starting positions.

Garrett noted that communication issues and a faster pace from the Cowboys contributed to their struggles. “We weren’t communicating quickly enough to keep up with them,” he said. The defense did show resilience, forcing Dallas into multiple field goal attempts, but ultimately, the Cowboys’ efficiency and field position allowed them to build and maintain their lead.

3. Penalties and Turnovers Prove Costly

The Browns' game was marred by penalties and turnovers, which played a significant role in their defeat. The team was penalized multiple times, and those infractions often came at critical moments, negating potential gains and extending the Cowboys' drives.

Additionally, turnovers proved detrimental. The Browns turned the ball over on downs twice, and Watson’s interceptions only compounded the issues. Stefanski highlighted that the team’s inability to handle these critical moments was a major factor in their loss. “We were minus two in the turnover battle, gave up a punt return, and felt like we were behind the chains the vast majority of the game,” Stefanski said.

Overall, the Browns' season opener revealed several areas needing improvement. While there were some positive moments, such as effective defensive plays and late-game touchdowns, the team struggled with consistency and execution. As they move forward into the season, addressing these issues will be crucial for their success.

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