As the Cleveland Browns forge ahead into the critical juncture of their offseason workouts, it’s prime time to rewind and spotlight the electric plays that painted last season. With a plethora of standout moments on both the offensive and defensive fronts, the Browns displayed why they’re a team to keep an eye on. Our “Season Rewind” series aims to dissect those key plays, bringing to light what made them tick.
This edition zeroes in on a stellar moment from the Browns’ 2023 campaign, focusing on a touchdown dash by none other than Deshaun Watson during the opening week face-off against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Deshaun Watson’s maneuver against the Bengals in week one was nothing short of spectacular, a testament to the potency of the Browns’ playbook. This particular play unfolded seamlessly, showcasing the strategic acumen of the team’s setup. Lining up in an “empty” formation with a tight, bunch set to the right and Amari Cooper isolated to the left, Cleveland creatively manipulated the Bengals’ defensive scheme to their advantage.
The Bengals, in response, shifted their defensive weight to the field’s strong side, inadvertently opening up the perfect runway for Watson’s exploit. The play, a QB Power to the less fortified weak side, saw Watson tear through the Bengals’ defenses with surgical precision.
The execution was flawless, especially given Wyatt Teller’s pivotal role in clearing the path. Teller, with a precise movement, engaged and neutralized Bengals DE Trey Hendrickson, thus paving a clear lane for Watson to charge through to glory.
This dazzling play underscored the Browns’ tactical versatility, highlighting how a squad’s agility and offensive line’s athleticism can create opportune moments against well-structured defenses. Cleveland’s ability to leverage an “empty” formation, combined with their capacity to shift gears into a 10-personnel play (or 10P), sets them apart, showcasing a depth of playbook creativity that few can match.
As the Browns gear up for another promising season, it’s plays like Watson’s touchdown run that remind fans and foes alike of the electrifying potential resonating within this team.
