CLEVELAND — Editor's note: the video in the player above is from a previous story.
The struggling nature of the Cleveland Browns offense has led many to question whether head coach Kevin Stefanski should give up his duties as a play-caller.
That theory, however, is not one that's shared by Stefanski's boss, Browns general manager Andrew Berry.
“Honestly, I think that is a better question for him and our expert in terms of scheme," Berry answered on Wednesday when asked about the difference in ways teams are defending Cleveland this season compared to last year. "That is not my area of expertise, but I have a ton of confidence in him as a play-caller.”
Berry's comments come three days after the Browns' 16-10 loss to the Baltimore Ravens, which dropped Cleveland to 6-6 entering its Week 13 bye week. The loss marked the sixth time in the past seven games the Browns had failed to score more than 17 points, including Cleveland's last three games, in which it has scored a total of four touchdowns.
Berry acknowledged that a number of issues have contributed to the Browns' offensive woes, especially in the passing game where quarterback Baker Mayfield has battled through injuries. Cleveland's issues with penalties -- particularly on offense where illegal formations and shifts have become an all-too-common occurrence -- has only contributed to the belief that Stefanski may simply have too many responsibilities in his second season as a head coach.
Again, Berry isn't buying it.
“No, I do not think it is a function of that," Berry said. "I think we have seen enough evidence over time that Kevin can manage everything on his plate. I think it really starts with accountability for every man that is on the team. Look, I have a ton of confidence that is something that we will get fixed moving forward.”
Asked about the possibility of giving up play-calling duties earlier this week, Stefanski said that he was comfortable with Cleveland's current setup, which includes input from offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt and offensive line coach Bill Callahan. He also took responsibility for the state of the Browns' offense, which he hopes will benefit from a much-needed bye.
"The buck does stop with me. I am responsible for everything that goes on offense, defense and special teams," Stefanski said. "Ultimately, it is my responsibility of whatever is happening out there on the field. That is why we are going to work real hard this week with the coaches and make sure that we are giving our guys the best chance moving forward.”