The Cleveland Browns dominated in their first playoff game in 18 years.
A record setting first quarter set the pace for the Browns as they beat the Pittsburgh Steelers 48-37.
Not done yet.#WeWantMore pic.twitter.com/kY7T8KbYq3
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) January 11, 2021
It was a statement win from a Browns team playing short-handed.
With four players out and five coaches testing positive for COVID, many counted the team out against the full-strength Steelers.
The victory sent a message to the rest of the NFL after the Browns snuck their way into the playoffs: they are for real.
Here are three things we learned after their dominating performance.
1. The Swagger’s Back
When the Browns play their best football, they build off their swagger.
👋👋👋👋 pic.twitter.com/pc5obxSqiu
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) January 11, 2021
This starts from the top with QB Baker Mayfield.
It was most evident during their Week 13 game against the Tennessee Titans.
In another high leverage game, the Browns seemed to come out with a chip on their shoulder and with an edge.
It seemed like they started losing that edge the last couple weeks of the season as they battled with COVID regulations and outbreaks.
However, they came out firing again in the Wild Card matchup.
When the Browns play with that leverage, they are a dangerous team.
This gives them the ability to jump out of the gates and force their opponents onto their heels.
By doing this, they open up every facet of their offensive game, allowing them to control the tempo and momentum.
It will be huge for them to continue playing with that swagger moving forward in the playoffs.
2. All Starts With Offensive Line
This has been the story of the Browns season; their success starts on the offensive line.
With Pro Bowl right guard Joel Bitonio out due to COVID, many thought the Steelers talented pass rush would thrive.
However, the Browns flexed their strength in the first half.
WIDE.
OPEN.@AustinHooper18 for SIX!📺: https://t.co/NyBDmNclTK pic.twitter.com/1jPksbh4WD
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) January 11, 2021
In 15 first half passing attempts, the Steelers had zero pressures on the QB.
It is then no surprise that the offense had no troubles working freely in the first two quarters.
The Steelers pressure began getting through the line in the second half, making it tougher on the Browns offense to operate.
There wasn’t as much time for plays to develop.
Once they are able to start connecting threw the air, the running game also opens up.
This all comes directly back to the offensive line.
Assuming everything goes well with COVID, their line should be at full strength next week.
Look for them to try and control the game on the offensive line to have a chance to continue in the playoffs.
3. Defense Needs To Pressure
Just as the Steelers success depends on pressuring the QB, so does the Browns.
During the first few Steelers drives, the Browns defensive line dictated the game.
They were led by a seemingly rejuvenated Myles Garret, who forced Ben Roethlisberger to throw off his back foot.
.@Checkout_Marv WITH THE TAKEAWAY‼️
📺: https://t.co/NyBDmNclTK pic.twitter.com/5H3dSgpSSw
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) January 11, 2021
This resulted in three interceptions and short drives from the Steelers’ offense.
In the second half, they struggled to pressure Big Ben in the same way.
This allowed him to stand in the pocket and pick apart the Browns biggest weakness: their secondary.
With how skilled the Steelers’ passing game is, it was easy for them to make big gains.
Because of this, the Steelers controlled the game during the third quarter.
With a matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs looming next week, it is even more important for the Browns to pressure Patrick Mahomes.
It was a solid, mistake free game from the Browns that shows they can be a threat in the playoffs.
No matter what, Browns fans can rejoice in the franchise’s first playoff victory since 1994.
Now, their attention shifts to a tough Divisional Round matchup against the Chiefs.
NEXT: Jack Conklin Cleared For Steelers Game, Expected To Play
