Cleveland Browns defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz has responded to Detroit Lions offensive coordinator John Morton’s claim that the Browns haven’t seen a run game like theirs yet.
Cleveland Browns defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz has responded to Detroit Lions offensive coordinator John Morton’s claim that the Browns haven’t seen a run game like theirs yet. Schwartz downplayed Morton’s comments, saying, “Um, I mean, we faced some good running offenses.” He highlighted the challenge of stopping the Lions’ dynamic run game, featuring David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs, who gained 224 yards and four touchdowns against the Baltimore Ravens.
Schwartz’s Confidence in Browns’ Run Defense
The Browns’ defense has been stingy, allowing a league-low 57.3 rushing yards per game. No opponent has cracked 90 yards on the ground against them yet, with the Green Bay Packers gaining 81 yards, the Ravens 45 yards, and the Cincinnati Bengals 46 yards. Schwartz emphasized discipline, gap integrity, and preventing Gibbs from breaking big plays in space as key to stopping the Lions’ run game.
Key Matchup: Lions’ Run Game vs. Browns’ Defense
The Lions’ run game, led by Montgomery and Gibbs, will face off against the Browns’ top-ranked defense. The Lions currently rank fourth in the NFL at 149 yards per game. Schwartz’s experience as the Lions’ head coach from 2009 to 2013 will give him insight into the team’s strengths and weaknesses. However, the Browns will need to adapt to the Lions’ game plan, which emphasizes patience and persistence in their run game.
Game Plan and Strategy
The Browns will aim to limit the Lions’ ability to generate explosive plays, which has been a hallmark of their offense. By keeping the Lions’ running backs in check, the Browns can reduce the number of big plays and gain an advantage. They will also look to create turnovers and capitalize on opportunities to shift momentum in their favor.
Upcoming Matchup
The Browns and Lions face off on September 28, 2025, at Ford Field in Detroit. Given the Browns’ strong run defense and the Lions’ potent running game, this matchup promises to be an exciting and closely contested battle. The Browns will need to be at their best to prove John Morton and the Lions wrong ¹.
