Injury Concerns for the Browns Ahead of Playoff Clash with Texans
The Cleveland Browns are facing a tense wait on the fitness of key players as they gear up for a crucial playoff game against the Houston Texans. Cornerback Denzel Ward, a pivotal figure in the Browns' defense, has sustained a knee injury that puts his availability for the upcoming game into question.
Ward, who is recognized for his three Pro Bowl selections, has already missed three games this season due to various ailments. The team held him out of action in Week 18, aiming to have him healthy and ready for the playoffs. However, his current knee issue casts doubt over his participation in the Saturday showdown set for a 4:30 p.m. ET kickoff in Houston.
The Browns' injury woes don't end with Ward. Pierre Strong Jr., another vital component of the team's strategy, is dealing with a back problem. Strong was injured in the final regular-season game against the Cincinnati Bengals and has had a disrupted practice weekâmissing Tuesday's session and only managing limited participation on Wednesday.
Browns' Injury Report Extends Beyond Ward and Strong
Mike Ford, Deshaun Watson, Nick Chubb, Rodney McLeod, Grant Delpit, Dustin Hopkins, Maurice Hurst, Anthony Walker, and Jakeem Grant are among several Browns players who have dealt with injuries recently. Additionally, Amari Cooper, Joel Bitonio, David Njoku, Greg Newsome, Ogbo Okoronkwo, Juan Thornhill, Ethan Pocic, Cedric Tillman, Kareem Hunt, Corey Bojorquez, and Myles Garrett have all been listed on the injury report at various points.
Despite these concerns, the Browns remain favorites going into the playoff game, with odds-makers listing them as 2.5-point favorites over the Texans. This confidence from the betting world may stem from the Browns' impressive 10-6-1 record against the spread (ATS) in the 2023 season.
Browns' Defense: A Formidable Force
A significant factor in the Browns' favor is their dominant defense, which leads the league by allowing the fewest yards per game at 270.2 and ranks second in yielding the least yards per play at just 4.8. This formidable unit has surrendered an average of only 164.7 passing yards per game and is tied for third in defensive interceptions, with a total of 18.
Star defensive end Myles Garrett is having a stellar year and is currently leading the race for Defensive Player of the Year. Garrett's stat line boasts 14 sacks and four forced fumbles, underscoring his impact on the field and his importance to the Browns' top-ranked defense.
Offensive Standouts Amidst Injury Concerns
On the offensive side of the ball, the Browns have seen standout performances from key players. Joe Flacco, the veteran quarterback with a storied playoff history, including a Super Bowl MVP award from Super Bowl XLVII, boasts a playoff record of 10-5. Moreover, he has shown remarkable consistency against the spread, with an 11-4 record, including covering seven consecutive games. Flacco's form has been particularly impressive since his return, leading the NFL in passing yards from Weeks 13-17.
Tight end David Njoku has emerged as a top target in the passing game, leading all NFL tight ends in receiving yards during the same five-week span. Wide receiver Amari Cooper also made his mark, ranking third among all pass-catchers in receiving yards over those weeks.
Conclusion
The Browns head into the playoffs with high hopes, bolstered by a strong defense and key offensive playmakers. However, the injury cloud hanging over the team could pose challenges as they prepare for the Texans. The next few days will be critical for the coaching staff to assess the health of their squad and make necessary adjustments. With the odds in their favor and a solid track record this season, the Browns aim to overcome their injury hurdles and advance further in the quest for postseason glory.