Browns Vs. Ravens: 3 Reasons for Pessimism

Sep 11, 2014; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Ravens running back Justin Forsett (29) runs past Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Jason Worilds (93) at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports

Running Game

While the Browns want to encourage their opponents to run the football, the Ravens have done well so far in that aspect of the game. They currently sit 12th at 125 yards per game. Without Ray Rice, Bernard Pierce and Justin Forsett have split the carries for the Ravens. Pierce has been steady, if unspectacular as the lead back. He is averaging exactly 4 yards a carry while Forsett, more of a third down back, is running at a 6.6 YPC.

Against the Browns the Ravens will continue to deploy their own version of the Zone Blocking Scheme in the run game. It will look familiar as Gary Kubiak, the Ravens OC, and Kyle Shanahan, the Browns OC, both learned under Mike Shanahan. As Browns fans have seen the ZBS can make good backs look great. It uses leverage and cut back lanes to open up holes for the runners to go through. With an aggressive, speedy defense the Browns could get caught out of position for a huge cut back.

Forsett has also been a weapon out of the backfield, with 9 receptions. While he hasn’t broken any huge plays this year, Forsett out of the backfield becomes a concern for the Browns in coverage as well. A swing pass, screen pass or dump off when the QB is in trouble could all turn in to big games for the smaller Forsett.