Myles Garrett, the All-Pro pass rusher for the Cleveland Browns, is all in. This Sunday, he has another opportunity to fly his freak flag and make a huge impact in the season opener against the Cincinnati Bengals. After missing practice on Thursday due to a hip injury, Garrett returned to the field on Friday, confirming that he is ready to face off against Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow.
Garrett has had a particular good track record against Burrow. He’s sacked the Bengals quarterback nine times in their eight matchups, making Burrow his most-sacked foe. Third, he’s had three multi-sack games versus Burrow, a perfect snapshot of Good Boom/Bust Miles Garrett coming to wreck your game. As the two get ready to meet again, Burrow gives high praise to Garrett’s exceptional talents. As John Perkins puts it, “He can win the game, if you allow him to.”
After Friday’s practice, Garrett said he felt good and was confident he would be ready to go. Admittedly, SBS said in Hong Kong he could feel the pain when playing on Thursday, but told fans and teammates of his imminent return.
“We’re ready to go. Had some pain yesterday. I’m good today” – Myles Garrett
As talented as Garrett is, his influence on the field will be just as important. His first matchup will surely be against rookie left guard Dylan Fairchild, who will be making his first start in the NFL. The new rookie will have the toughest task of all—protecting against Myles Garrett, one of the biggest threats to any o-line.
Yet somehow, Garrett appreciates the spotlight he’ll be under during games. As he noted, “I already know they’re going to have their focus, the majority of their focus, directed at me. I understand there will be some missed chips, some missed doubles, there’ll be some sandbagging. So just trying to get ahead of that.” This consciousness of his role speaks not only to his extensive experience, but to his understanding of how opposing teams game plan against him.
Burrow appreciates the importance of decisive action in dealing with Garrett’s consistent harassment. He reiterated the need to always have a clear picture of where you are, especially in terms of protection IDs. Further, he implored you to be ready with concise explanations for any topics you’ve covered. Sometimes he’s back there before you even get the ball, pretty much, and you got to get it out.
As the Browns gear up for an intense matchup against their division rivals, Garrett’s return to practice signifies not just a personal triumph over injury but a critical boost for the team’s defensive line. Both teams have a lot to prove going into this Sunday’s matchup. Their competition with each other is fierce, as both are under immense pressure to churn out amazing acts.
Leave a Reply