Thoughts on the Cleveland Browns at Philadelphia Eagles

Photo by Charles Murray

This Thursday night, the Cleveland Browns will play the Philadelphia Eagles in Philadelphia. This will be preseason game number three for the Browns. Kick-off is set for 7:30 from Lincoln Financial Field.

Cleveland isn’t expected to play many starters due to the fact that the Browns and Eagles have been doing joint practice sessions with each other. Therefore, the starters are getting in plenty of work this entire time.

It was reported earlier this week that Cleveland plans to start rookie quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robison. After Browns quarterback Joshua Dobbs had a not so good showing last week against Washington and Thompson-Robison had a good game, where he went 9-10 for 102 yards passing with one touchdown, the Browns have decided that they want to see him play with a group of players that are a bit more talented.

Reports coming out of these joint practices have said that Cleveland’s starting defensive line is really giving a great Eagles offensive line some major problems. If you watched the pre-season game against the Commanders last week, you saw how disruptive the defensive line can be. That, mixed with the new way the Browns D-linemen are lining up a bit wider and defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz adding his aggressiveness to the mix. So far, so far.

In regard to what I’m looking for with the Browns in this game, the first thing I want to see is kicker Cade York be challenged but have a great night. York looks like a man that has a lot of doubts in his head and he needs a boost of confidence. Kickers can win or lose games for you. They can also help get you into the playoffs or keep you out. York needs a great night.

Next, I want to see how well the entire second team defense plays against the Eagles. In a game full of injuries, how good are the backups? Is there a big drop-off in talent? We will find out more Thursday night.

Finally, how well does the offensive line look? I will particularly be watching rookie tackle Dawand Jones. Again, injuries will happen. Browns fans are hoping Cleveland finally has some depth and quality depth at that on the O-line.

FINAL THOUGHTS: I hope both teams come out of this game with no injuries. A Cleveland win is always nice, but health is the top priority along with playing well and executing plays well.