Cleveland Browns: Grades from the horrendous loss to the Bengals

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Dec 11, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns running back Duke Johnson (29) runs with the ball during the second half against the against the Cincinnati Bengals at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports /

Running Back: D

The sad truth is, it was actually a very successful afternoon statistically for Cleveland rushers. Isaiah Crowell averaged over 11 yards a carry, taking it 113 yards on ten carries. Duke Johnson also got involved, with 24 yards on six attempts and a 21-yard catch and run.

However, it wasn’t all pretty for these two. Most of this yardage came against a much less aggressive defense in the second half. Also, both Crowell and Johnson had their share of drops coming out of the backfield.

Pass protection was another area this unit struggled in. It was a valiant effort, but blocking some of Cincinnati’s top pass rushers was ultimately a lost cause. This led not only to the three sacks Griffin took, but also to some premature throws before routes could materialize.

All in all, it was a struggle for Cleveland running backs. But unlike past weeks, they actually got involved in the offense after a sluggish start. So, there’s something to build on.

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