Cleveland Browns ride a relentless defense and kicker Phil Dawson's two long field goals to 6-3 triumph over Seattle Seahawks

October 24, 2011

By Tony Grossi

Tony Grossi’s Take

• Offense: Not many points, real or style. But it managed to do two things -- convert third downs and dominate time of possession. Montario Hardesty ran hard, took a lot of punishment and didn't turn over the ball. Colt McCoy played with a lot of toughness. Bottom line: You want handoffs. You got handoffs.

• Defense: They deflated the no-huddle attack by forcing four three-and-outs and also punts after five and four plays. A great goal-line stand kept them out of the end zone after giving up a 38-yard pass play. Forced two turnovers. Bottom line: Yielded 2.7 yards per play.

• Special teams: Phil Dawson's field goals of 52 and 53 yards won the game. Otherwise, breakdowns continued. Seattle blocked two field goals and ripped off a 72-yard punt return, though it was reduced to 36 by a penalty.Bottom line: Brad Seely must be rubbing his hands in anticipation in San Francisco.

• Coaching: Defensive coordinator Dick Jauron saved this day. Without an outstanding performance on defense, the Browns are in a heap of trouble with games up at San Francisco and Houston. Bottom line: Survival.