A deeper analysis of the Cleveland Browns’ comeback win over the Baltimore Ravens in Week 10 may point to time of possession being a key factor. The Ravens defense spent 75 total plays on the field, a strong indicator of potential fatigue.
Coordinator Mike MacDonald’s unit held the Browns offense to just nine first-half points yet had less luck stopping quarterback Deshaun Watson in the second half.
Quarterback Lamar Jackson struggled passing the ball, and the Ravens offense was not able to sustain drives. Perhaps opting for the run could have shortened the game. Instead, the Ravens opted to go for explosive plays, losing the time of possession statistic 34:15 to 25:45.
the definition of clutch đź’Ż@deshaunwatson | #DawgPound pic.twitter.com/X3cMztm29Q
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) November 12, 2023
The fatigued Ravens defense had no answer for the intermediate passing game with wide receiver Amari Cooper and scramble runs of Watson. The Browns rushed the ball on 36 of their 75 offensive plays, using physicality to tire out the Baltimore defense.
In Week 10, only four teams allowed more points than Baltimore, and only the New York Giants defense was on the field for more plays.