Browns vs Packers: Preseason Week 1 Offensive Takeaways

Running backs Duke Johnson and Isaiah Crowell did not see a lot of action last night, and when they were on the field with the first team, their rushing attempts were hampered by poor blocking by the tight ends. Failure to block on the edge disrupted the blocking schemes and led to hits in the backfield.

Johnson was the major highlight of the evening. Taking the ball off tackle he burst through the line breaking two tackles and applying a stiff arm at the end of the run. What is remarkable about this run was the power Johnson demonstrated by breaking two tackles. Known more as a shifty back, Johnson has worked this offseason to add more power to his runs. His work is paying off.

Pass blocking was a major strength of the group. The running backs were on the same page with the offensive line when it came to pass protection calls and they executed their blocks with the correct technique

Crowell left the game early Friday to get X-rays on his shoulder, but said he was “good.” He should be fine to play next Thursday’s preseason game against the Atlanta Falcons.

Next: Offensive Line