By Joe Hunley--Cleveland Browns Report

The Cleveland Browns host the Baltimore Ravens in what will definitely be a very physical and intense fight to the finish. The Ravens are seeking to gain a play-off spot, not to mention their race for the AFC North division crown with the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Browns are--without seeming harsh--fighting for their jobs, not to mention the future of their coaches.

Can the Browns "throw a wrench" in the plans of the Ravens. Given the performance of the Browns in the last few games it is unlikely, however-- the Browns have the ability and talent to play head to head with anyone.

Run the ball !

The Browns must give the Ravens a healthy dose of Peyton Hillis. In their last outing against the Bengals, the Browns ran the ball 14 times, and all 14 attempts were by Hillis. Although Hillis averaged four yards per carry--the Browns abandoned the run (14 times the entire game?). This quickly made the Browns offense--one-dimensional. This lack of the running game, or attempt to run the ball, put the Bengals on notice--"we'll beat you via the air". This did not work against Cincy and it will not work with the Ravens. Hillis must be given rest throughout the game as it is vital to have him effective in the latter quarters. Yea--I know--who else are you going to hand the ball to? Mike Bell has not been effective, yet the Browns must use him when Hillis is on the sidelines, if not, every time Hillis leaves the game the Ravens will be looking for the "air attack"

How about a little protection for Colt?

Note to the offensive line: The kid back there is a rookie, and given that the Ravens do not fear any of the Browns wide receivers, they will be testing the young quarterback. Yes--the Ravens are salivating over the opportunity to rattle, rush, sack and force McCoy into beating them via the air. The offensive line must step it up, and give McCoy the time to pick his targets, which should not take to long--Colt doesn't have that many targets! With the great number of wide receivers (yes--I use that term loosely) that the Browns have they might think about lining up two on each side, and send them deep--every play--that will take a little pressure off McCoy, not to mention, it would be entertaining.

Coaching--or Lack Of:

Now I understand that talent, and the availabilty of players will have a lot to do with coaching strategy. That being said, I wish to offer my strategy to the Cleveland coaches. This ultra-conservative coaching that has  seemed popular in the last few games just isn't working. It doesn't hurt to gamble (the Browns are not in the play-off hunt), so-- mix it up like was previously done in games such as, New England, New Orleans, and the New York Jets. There have been a couple 4th and 1 calls that given the performance Peyton Hillis, I would have gone for. But then, that would be an "in your Face, devil may care, I'm not afraid of you" approach to football. An approach that achieved victories over the Patriots and Saints, not to mention a nail-biter with the Jets.

Conclusion:

If the Browns defense can eliminate a great number of those missed tackles that have plagued them recently.
If the Browns offense can hold firm, and protect Colt McCoy.
If a running game is present (not just a limited "the Peyton Hillis Show")
And--If the coaching does not resemble a clam trying to remain safe, in it's shell.

It is possible that a talented, physical and on occassion, a well coached Browns team can spoil the plans of the Baltimore Ravens.