Freddie Kitchens is Losing Control of His Team and the Browns Penalty Numbers Are Damning
It doesn't take a rocket scientist to realize that the Cleveland Browns have a discipline problem, and it starts at the top.
After acquiring Odell Beckham Jr. in a trade last spring, many expected great things from the Browns, with some even projecting them to be Super Bowl contenders. The pent up frustration from failing to live up to those expectations is making its way onto the field.
Analysis: With Odell Beckham Jr. trade, the Browns just became Super Bowl contenders https://t.co/hGz5c9nM2z
— The Washington Post (@washingtonpost) March 13, 2019
Well, it's safe to say that probably won't happen, if they even make the playoffs.
The tandem of Baker Mayfield and Odell has been a complete flop, but there are other reasons why this squad hasn't lived up to expectations, including the lack of control Freddie Kitchens has over his team.
Freddie Kitchens: I don't know that we've struggled to remain composed this year https://t.co/PzH9ZR5ZBX
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) November 15, 2019
After the Myles Garrett-Mason Rudolph helmet debacle on Thursday, some of the blame was directed towards Kitchens for not maintaining a semblance of discipline with his football team. In fact, Cleveland's penalty numbers are downright damning.
Is there a discipline problem in Cleveland?
— trey wingo (@wingoz) November 15, 2019
Browns - This Season
NFL Rank
Penalties 87 Most
Penalty yards 822 Most
Special team penalties 13 T-second
Defensive penalties 33 T-Third
Offensive penalties 41 T-Third
Cleveland leads or are near the top of the NFL in almost every penalty category possible. The franchise hasn't had this many since the 1978 season.
Kitchens has to be held accountable for not putting his foot down, especially with a roster full of eccentric personalities. Perhaps he's just not the right man for the job.