The tension between the Detroit Lions and Cleveland Browns is already building before Sunday’s clash at Ford Field, and rookie defensive tackle Mason Graham has officially joined the conversation.
Earlier in the week, Detroit offensive coordinator John Morton raised eyebrows with a bold claim: “I don’t think they’ve faced a rushing attack like ours yet.” Morton was referencing the Lions’ dynamic ground game led by David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs, who exploded for 224 rushing yards and four touchdowns in their Monday night demolition of the Baltimore Ravens.
The Browns weren’t about to let that go unchecked. Graham, a first-year defensive tackle out of Michigan, dismissed the talk and stood firmly behind Cleveland’s stout defense.
“We’ve been shutting down the run every week, and we’ll keep doing it,” Graham said Thursday.
Building Tension Between the Lines
Morton’s confidence isn’t misplaced. Detroit sits near the top of the league in rushing production, thanks to a backfield that blends power and speed. Gibbs’ ability to stretch plays wide and Montgomery’s punishing runs between the tackles give the Lions a dangerous one-two punch that few defenses have solved.
But Cleveland is no stranger to stopping elite runners. The Browns boast the NFL’s top-ranked run defense, allowing a mere 57.3 rushing yards per game. In recent weeks, they’ve completely neutralized ground-heavy offenses from the Ravens, Bengals, and Packers. Graham believes the Lions will be the next victim.
A Rookie Not Backing Down
For Graham, this moment is about more than just trash talk—it’s about making his mark early in his career. Drafted to bring strength and grit to Cleveland’s defensive front, he has already earned praise from coaches for his toughness and consistency.
His response to Morton reflects a young player unafraid of the spotlight. If he and the Browns’ defensive front can bottle up Montgomery and Gibbs on Sunday, Graham’s reputation as a rising force will only grow.
Sunday’s Clash Feels Personal
Detroit is coming off a statement victory in Baltimore, while Cleveland continues to build its identity around defensive dominance. Both sides know the trenches will determine who controls the game flow.
Morton trusts his running backs. Graham trusts his defensive front. Only one side will prove right when the teams collide on Sunday.
