In the defense’s game planning for Ward, CB Denzel Ward said that the Browns have used their pre-draft research on the rookie quarterback to help prepare the defense. That preparation is helping Denzel Ward and Cleveland’s secondary understand what Cam Ward will bring to the matchup.
“I think he has a good arm talent, able to make some nice throws, able to extend plays for sure,” Denzel Ward said. “You have to wrap him up and get him all the way down. He’s still going to try to make a play and get the ball to his playmakers.”
Stopping Cam Ward from getting the ball to his playmakers will be an effort shared among Cleveland’s defense. Players like Garrett and Graham will work their way into the backfield and force Cam Ward to scramble and extend plays, leading him into potential negative plays or mistakes. Behind the defensive line, linebackers Carson Schwesinger and Devin Bush will help contain Cam Ward’s scrambling and short-to-medium passing ability to force short offensive gains. Then, Denzel Ward and the secondary will try to take away Cam Ward’s pass catchers like WR Calvin Ridley and TE Chig Okonkwo.
Despite Tennessee’s 1–11 record, the Browns need to be aware of how Cam Ward can impact the game. As Denzel Ward reiterated, both teams want to beat each other on Sunday.
“It’s a team that’s trying to come in here and beat us, so it goes vice versa. That’s what we’re trying to do,” Denzel Ward said. “We’re trying to go in and get a win and that’s what both sides are trying to do and, so, that’s the threat right there. Who’s going to come out on top?”