Flacco said it took him a few minutes to get back into the rhythm of calling plays in the huddle and find his comfort zone. Luckily it was clear all week that he was going to start.
“You have to get used to hearing them and then actually seeing them instead of just imagining them on a screen,” Flacco said. “It’s so valuable to get reps like that when you’re playing because it’s easy but you take it for granted. I definitely have years of experience that can help me a little.”
It sounds like training for Flacco has been solid, with a source describing it as “seamless.” The veteran has played for several teams including the Broncos, Jets and Eagles after leaving Baltimore, and his time under Gary Kubiak with the Broncos and Mike LaFleur when he was the Jets’ offensive coordinator should help with the adjustment. These fundamentals of the Browns offense should be implemented and helpful today.
Cleveland boasts a top-five defense and a top-five rushing attack, the same formula as the Ravens teams that made the playoffs and ultimately won the Super Bowl. Reed also saw the similarities.
“If they can run and Joe protects the ball the way Joe can, the coach will put Joe in a position to be successful,” Reed said. “We’ll see how far they can go.”