Grades from the 31-17 loss to the Bengals

Running Backs: C

All in all, Cleveland’s running game wasn’t bad, averaging 6.9 yards on the ground in a collective effort anchored by Hogan. Isaiah Crowell chipped in too though, rushing for 63 yards on 12 carries, including one touchdown. Duke Johnson carried the ball six times for 15 yards.

Especially early on in the game, the rushers had holes to sneak through with a lot of open space on the other end. Crowell had two carries of 20 yards or more, sparking drives that would later fizzle. Johnson didn’t do much, but did make the most of the limited room he was given, going straight at the defense despite his small stature.

At the end of the day, the running backs themselves had little to do with the outcome of the game. They didn’t help the cause a whole lot, but it’s not like they ever were given much of a shot to. Later in the game, their role became mostly to block for a pass-heavy offense. Once again, they were mediocre in this facet of the game as well. not to excuse the mistakes made by Crowell and Johnson, but it truly was other groups which cost the team the game.