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Cleveland Browns: Top 5 opposing running backs in 2016

By Jonathan Goehring

Nov 8, 2015; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills running back LeSean McCoy (25) runs with the ball during the first half against the Miami Dolphins at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 8, 2015; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills running back LeSean McCoy (25) runs with the ball during the first half against the Miami Dolphins at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 3, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte (22) warms up before the Chicago Bears game against the Detroit Lions at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 3, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte (22) warms up before the Chicago Bears game against the Detroit Lions at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports /

The Browns’ Week 8 game against the New York Jets is one of the more unpredictable contests on the schedule. A single win away from the final AFC wild card spot just a year ago, the Jets fell just short. There are numerous unknown factors for this Jets team entering 2016, but one of the most stable is the running back position.

The Jets finished last season with the NFL’s 10th-best running game and signed former Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte to take over for Chris Ivory. Forte was a consistent staple in the Bears offense, rushing for more than 1,000 yards in each season between 2012 and 2014 before having a slightly down year last season.

The Jets may be more of a two-headed running offense as they also have Zac Stacy to spell Forte, but Forte’s experience and ability to have a comeback season makes him the most dangerous Cleveland opponent. Both Forte and Stacy have a great deal of physicality, which will be a challenge for an undersized Browns’ defense to combat, with Forte adding the elements of speed and agility.

For an otherwise stagnant offense, the Jets have an explosive weapon in Forte, who can change a game at any moment. In this matchup, the Browns will need to assign several linebackers to pay attention to the veteran, and consistent tackling is essential. Forte is not a player the Browns have faced a whole lot, but he has had success against Cleveland as in two career games he has rushed for 217 yards and a pair of touchdowns.

The Browns will need to develop a thorough scheme and not underestimate a player who is looking to prove that he is not on the downside of his career. This will make him one of the tougher running backs the Browns will have to slow down this season.

Next: DeMarco Murray, Tennessee Titans

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