First-half thoughts from Browns-Raiders

By Vic Carucci, Senior Editor

OAKLAND – Here are some thoughts on the first half of the Browns’ game against the Raiders at O.co Coliseum Stadium:

What I liked…

>>The Browns taking control defensively and putting a figurative blanket on Carson Palmer and the Raiders’ offense from the start. Cannot let a team that has lost three in a row by lopsided scores get any sense of confidence.

>>The Browns moving the ball well through the air. The run has been setting up the pass nicely for the Browns. Trent Richardson has been a workhorse, setting a physical tone for the Browns.

>>The mostly tight coverage by the Browns’ secondary, especially cornerback Sheldon Brown. The Browns’ defensive backs are showing good ball awareness.

>>Brandon Weeden’s perfect throw to Josh Gordon for a 44-yard touchdown pass.

>>Montario Hardesty making an explosive run, once again, when he had the opportunity. Hardesty ripped off a 19-yard gain on his only carry so far.

>>The Browns not allowing the Raiders to get close enough on their final drive of the half for a Sebastian Janikowski field goal. As it was, his 61-yard attempt wasn’t that far off. The guy put a kickoff through the uprights, which would have given him a 70-yard field goal.

What I didn’t like …

>>Two interceptions thrown by Weeden that killed two scoring opportunities. He seemed to make a hasty decision on the first throw and the second was severely underthrown. The second could have easily been a touchdown.

>>The Browns having to settle for a field goal for their first score. We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: Phil Dawson is money, but this team needs touchdowns rather than relying so much on field goals.

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