Myles Garrett and Browns Face Tough Challenge

The Cleveland Browns are reeling after a close 20-16 loss to the Las Vegas Raiders, dropping their record to 1-3. Offensive struggles have plagued the team, ranking 31st in the NFL with just 246.3 total yards per game and 16.5 points per game. As they prepare for their next challenge, the Browns will have to find a way to break through against one of the NFC’s hottest teams, the Washington Commanders.

Washington enters this Week 5 matchup with a 3-1 record, fresh off a dominant 42-14 win over the Arizona Cardinals. The Commanders' defense held Arizona to 296 total yards while their offense racked up 449 yards, including 216 on the ground. It was the most complete performance of the season for Washington, as they sit atop the NFC East.

Cleveland’s defense, despite its own struggles, has been a bright spot, allowing an average of 299 total yards per game. They’ll need a big performance from star pass rusher Myles Garrett, who is playing through multiple injuries. Garrett’s ability to pressure Washington rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, who has been dynamic with both his arm and legs, could be key to keeping the Browns competitive .

Under head coach Dan Quinn, Washington’s defense is thriving. Quinn, known for leading Seattle’s "Legion of Boom" to a Super Bowl victory in 2014 and his time with the Dallas Cowboys, previously boasting one of the league’s top defenses, has built a formidable unit in Washington. With the Commanders averaging 30.3 points per game, the Browns will need to rely on their defense once again to stifle Washington’s balanced attack if they hope to pull off the upset.

Related: Browns Help on Offense at Key Time?

As Cleveland looks for answers on offense, they’ll face a steep challenge against a Washington team firing on all cylinders. A victory for the Browns could turn their season around, but it will require a strong showing on both sides of the ball.