Browns vs. Bengals: Halftime Observations for the Browns

The Cleveland Browns are out to prove that they're no pushover this season. After an important win against Jacksonville Jaguars last week, this is a must-win game for the Browns, like most division matchups are. Let's take a look at a few adjustments Cleveland should make in the second half.

Up the Gut

The Browns caught a bit of a luck when Peyton Hillis was deemed active, and then a bit of bad luck when Montario Hardesty wasn't. Either way, Hillis is the guy you want in the backfield, especially with the lead. Cedric Benson is doing a good job of moving the rock, but the Browns must match him. If the Cincinnati Bengals get the lead, running the ball will be a lot easier than passing.  

Open the Playbook

The Browns are underdogs in this game, so a win would be even more satisfying. But Pat Shurmur would be smart to open up the playbook a bit more. The west coast offense is based on efficiency, but these Browns need to be a bit more creative.

Too many dink-and-dunk passes and ineffective screens are handcuffing Colt McCoy. He did so well throwing the ball deep in the first quarter, it's a shame to see Cleveland get away from that so quickly. 

Playoffs

Right now, the Browns are playing for their playoff lives. If they take down this game, they'll be just one game back in the wild card race. That's huge. The Baltimore Ravens have shown that they can underestimate lesser opponents, so developing some swagger with a two-game winning streak would could mean big things in Week 13.