The Detroit Lions are gearing up to face the Cleveland Browns in Week 4, and their coordinators have shared some key insights on how they plan to approach the game.
The Detroit Lions are gearing up to face the Cleveland Browns in Week 4, and their coordinators have shared some key insights on how they plan to approach the game. Here are six takeaways from the Lions’ coordinators:
1. Containing Myles Garrett
Offensive coordinator John Morton knows that containing the Browns’ star edge rusher Myles Garrett will be crucial to the Lions’ success. Garrett has been dominant this season with four sacks in three games, and Morton emphasized the importance of limiting his impact on the game. The Lions will need to come up with a solid game plan to neutralize Garrett’s pass-rushing abilities ¹.
2. Unique Run Game
Morton also highlighted the uniqueness of the Lions’ run game, which boasts versatility and diversity. He believes that the Browns haven’t seen a run game like the Lions’, and Detroit must be patient with their running game, even if it isn’t clicking early in the game. The Lions’ running backs, including David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs, will be key to the team’s success.
3. Special Teams Improvement
Special teams coordinator Dave Fipp wants to see steady improvement in punting units, after ranking 11th in gross punting average and 20th in net punt average. Fipp also discussed the importance of avoiding tackles on kickoff returns, highlighting a play where kicker Jake Bates made a tackle. The Lions will need to work on their special teams play to gain an edge over the Browns.
4. Defensive Strategy
Defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard credited the execution of their game plan for the defensive performance against the Ravens, utilizing a spy for Lamar Jackson. However, he wasn’t happy with giving up 30 points and emphasized the importance of shutting down drives before halftime and at the end of the game. Sheppard believes that the Lions’ defense can be successful against the Browns with the right game plan.
5. Amik Robertson’s Role
Sheppard mentioned that Amik Robertson will get reps at outside cornerback, earned through his play. Robertson’s increased involvement could impact the team’s defensive strategy, and he’ll be tasked with covering the Browns’ receivers.
6. Caleb Williams’ Challenge
Sheppard highlighted the challenge posed by the Bears’ quarterback Caleb Williams, known for his speed and athleticism. While the Lions aren’t facing Williams this week, Sheppard’s comments suggest that the team is preparing for tough opponents. The Lions’ defense will need to be prepared to face the Browns’ offense, which features talented players like Nick Chubb and Amari Cooper ¹.
Overall, the Lions’ coordinators are focused on improving their team’s performance in all phases and coming up with a solid game plan to take on the Browns. With the right strategy and execution, the Lions could secure a crucial win in Week 4.




