
The Patriots host the Cleveland Browns this afternoon and while on paper, this is a winnable game. Cleveland poses some match up problems. Especially defensive end Myles Garrett who is arguably the best defensive player in the NFL.
Here are five match-ups to watch in what could be a much bigger challenge for the Patriots than some would think.
Myles Garrett vs. Will Campbell: Campbell is going to need help with Garrett today. Garrett wins with speed and power and is a tough match-up one on one. Look for the Patriots to focus their protections to the left or where ever Garrett is lined up. They will also chip and double Garrett depending on the down and distance.
Browns running game vs. Patriots front seven: Rookie running back Quinshon Judkins has been very good for the Browns. He runs hard, averaging 4.0 yards per carry after initial contact t. He is tough. Run fits and tackling are key today. The Patriots need to get multiple hats to the ball and finish tackles when they get there.
Denzel Ward vs. Stefon Diggs: Ward is the Browns best corner and he will be primarily matched up on Diggs today. If that is the case, the other patriots receivers and tight ends could have favorable match ups. They will need to take advantage of those match-ups as Diggs will have his hands full with Ward.
Browns offensive tackles vs. Harold Landry and K’Lavon Chaisson: Landry and Chaisson should have a good day at the office against Cam Robinson and Jack Conklin. Both are athletic and undersized. They struggle with speed to power guys who can convert and close on the quarterback. Both Landry and Chaisson should get consistent pressure on rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel and routinely force him from the pocket.
Dillon Gabriel vs. Patriots secondary: The Browns have done a good job managing Gabriel by running the football, moving the pocket for him and getting the ball out of his hands quickly. The Patriots front seven will have to get pressure on him while keeping him in the pocket. The secondary will have to move around a lot and create confusion. They have to cloud Gabriel’s reads and force him into bad throws post snap.