Joe Flacco and the Cleveland Browns have been in the spotlight this late in the NFL season because of his impact on the team’s offense.
That raise was enough for the Browns to offer him a new contract for the following season.
One of the major changes in strategy is the emphasis on the passing game.
But if you take a closer look at Flacco’s performance, you’ll notice a surprising trend.
Despite the popular image of Flacco’s strong arm and deep throws downfield, his effectiveness in that area doesn’t live up to the hype.
When he threw the ball 20 yards downfield, Flacco was off the charts for the Browns.
Deshaun Watson and PJ Walker effectively beat him with these long passes.
Statistically, Flacco ranks 45th out of 48 qualified quarterbacks in expected points added on pass attempts of 20 yards or more.
By various metrics (completion percentage, completion percentage, yards per attempt or EPA per attempt), Flacco ranks 42nd or worse out of 48 quarterbacks.
Your game strategy against the Chicago Bears should take this information into account.
The Bears were strong at stopping the run, but less effective at passing on runners.
The Browns could benefit from adjusting their approach by weakening their offensive line.
Instead of focusing on the deep, over-the-top throws they’ve struggled with, short passes to the quarterback could be more effective for the Bears’ defense.
These adjustments could make it easier for them to play to the Browns’ strengths and use the Bears’ defensive prowess to move evenly down the field.
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