Kevin Stefanski did not know how his team would react after Friday’s rest day, but he left the field on Saturday pleasantly surprised.
On a calm day in Berea, the Browns put in the kind of effort that the head coach could appreciate. His words that led to practice were considered.
“That day by day, a lot of times guys can be lazy,” Stefanski said. “We reminded them and they came out here and overall it was pretty good. A lot of situational things we hit. We tested them physically here on a nice hot day, but mentally as well.”
1. Great plays for both sides
This was a balanced day out of a big game point.
From an offensive perspective, the running game was stimulated by the return of Nick Chubb, who participated in his first practice since Monday a listening game. This was the last step for Chubb in the concussion protocol, and his presence provided a welcome sight for a criminal who would use his skills on a regular basis. Even when the game was stopped and the whistle was blown, Chubb would finish his runs by sprinting to the end of the field.
“Good to see 24 there,” Stefanski said. “The kids just work.”
The passing game continued by clicking as Baker Mayfield saw the way of Austin Hooper. After a short tussle with the defender, Mayfield finally tucked the ball home. He got past the defenders and fired a shot that the keeper just missed. 1 – 0 for the visitors.