The Cleveland Browns certainly made enough news on Tuesday with the COVID-19 list growing by 8 players.
It is not the ideal situation to go into Week 15, but this seems par for the course for the Browns and for the 2021 NFL season in general.
Check out my TikTok talking about the reasons not to worry.
@brownsspice
Here are the Browns Nation news and notes for Wednesday, December 15.
1. Coach Stefanski Has Temperament To Handle This
For those who believe Coach Stefanski is stoic and sometimes icy in his demeanor, this is just the type of behavior the Browns need in their head coach right now as they deal with these COVID-19 issues.
He clearly believes in his team and knows that there are players on the roster who will step up if given the opportunity.
“We’ll be ready. We’ll adjust accordingly.”
Kevin Stefanski's measured, consistent approach is valuable in situations like this one, the wildcard game last year.
The Raiders aren't going to feel sorry for the Browns. They're pretty busy feeling sorry for themselves.
— Pete Smith (@_PeteSmith_) December 14, 2021
#Browns Kevin Stefanski on OL Wyatt Teller and Jedrick Wills Jr. among those on COVID-19 reserve pic.twitter.com/tEObTm1sza
— Mary Kay Cabot (@MaryKayCabot) December 14, 2021
2. Browns Defense Earns High Ranking Per PFF
The Browns defense has come on strong in recent weeks.
Are they perfect?
Of course not, but Pro Football Focus ranks them 2nd in the AFC behind the New England Patriots and 5th overall in the NFL.
Between offensive injuries and COVID-19 hitting the offense pretty hard, the stellar play of the defense will be vital against the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 15.
The #Browns D is now graded 5th in the #NFL and 2nd in the AFC (behind NE) per PFF
— CLEology (@_CLEology) December 14, 2021
3. Nick Chubb Ranks 5th In Rushing
Considering the fact that Nick Chubb was out for three games with an injury and COVID-19, it is somewhat surprising he is the fifth-ranked rusher in the NFL right now.
This is certainly good news as the Browns will need Chubb to keep the running game going because Kareem Hunt may not be available to play on Saturday after suffering an ankle injury against the Ravens.
A look at the NFL’s rush leaders right now👌 pic.twitter.com/LuJuOg609Q
— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) December 14, 2021
4. Saturday’s Weather Forecast Adds To The Week 15 Fun
The weather forecast for Saturdays #Raiders vs #Browns game:
– 38 degrees
– 17MPH winds
– rain/sleet mix
– sunset at 4:58pm (4:30 kickoff)This game will be won in the ground
— Tristen Kuhn (@KuhnTristen) December 14, 2021
It has been somewhat mild by Cleveland standards for home football games thus far in 2021.
That might be changing if the Saturday weather forecast holds up.
Rain, sleet, wind, and cold temperatures will certainly make it feel like winter especially for the Las Vegas players.
NEXT: Vikings WR Trolls Browns Over OBJ Release
