Browns vs. Chargers: 4 keys to victory

Sep 13, 2015; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Chargers running back Melvin Gordon (28) is defended by Detroit Lions linebacker Josh Bynes (57) during the first quarter at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

There is a headline I saw earlier that said “Melvin Gordon should have a big day against Browns’ D.”

Great.

The Browns run defense (what run defense am I right?) has been painful to watch during the first three games of the season.

I have already written the numbers several times this week, but they still amaze me every time I see them. The Browns have allowed an average of 158.3 rushing yards per game this season, which is over 13 more yards on average than the next closest team, the Dolphins.

As you may have guessed, this puts the Browns far in the basement of the run defense department.

Things will only get tougher as the Browns are facing the talented Melvin Gordon, who may be the best back they will see through the first four games of the season.

Gordon is currently 11th in the league in rushing with 190 yards, but still remains without a touchdown. His stats may be deceiving, as he has only had 44 attempts, thus averaging 4.3 yards per carry. Against a Browns defense that allows 4.9 yards per attempt, he will be confident heading into this game.

The Chargers are likely going to focus on the running game to start the game. This means the defense must balance a heavy run focus while not getting burned by play-action passes.

It sounds simple enough, but it is tough to even analyze a defense who has performed so poorly thus far. But we have to stay positive. Right?

Next: Wear down San Diego's defense with the run