Inconsistency hurting the Browns
The verdict is still out as to what type of team the Browns will be this year. The lack of consistency, whether it be game to game or simply play to play, leaves plenty to be answered. Oddly enough the most consistent aspect of the team has been the offensive line (keep in mind when I speak of positive aspects of the team I am essentially casting aside the opening game against the Steelers). Any Browns fan will tell you that the improvement along the offensive line is a major accomplishment; as such praise has not been viable for what seems like an eternity.
The Browns are among the top half of the NFL in every offensive category. On the other side of the ball they are near last in every defensive category (they are holding the last spot in points and points per game). It is the inconsistent play from Derek Anderson that has caused problems offensively, while the defense has been an utter disappointment. Inconsistency on both sides of the ball last week was ultimately what led to a heartbreaking loss at Oakland. This brings me to the lingering question about the Browns:
What is the identity of this team?
The fact that the offense is capable of being very explosive is a major step in the right direction, especially considering they are playing with a stand in at QB until Brady Quinn is ready. With a seemingly solid offensive line and the potential to score enough to win each week there is room for plenty of optimism. Following this train of thought all the defense really needs to do is play decent and make plays from time to time.
If the Browns figure out how to field a consistently good offense that takes care of the ball and a decent defense that makes big plays from time to time there is no reason why they can't be a good team now. I guess the only thing one can do is wait and see what happens against a very tough Baltimore team this Sunday. The waiting game is something Browns fans are very accustomed to at this point, so keep the optimism running high and be on the lookout for a Browns team ready to inch closer to putting together all the pieces. Oh, and can I PLEASE PLEASE see more Winslow and Jamal Lewis early and often to beat down opposing defenses?