Cleveland Browns: 5 offensive takeaways from Week 1

The running game did not look good

Let the monster year begin! After predicting 19 carries for 110 yards on our podcast, I really thought the Browns would have a concerted effort to run the ball against the Steelers. That sort of happened, as Isaiah Crowell finished with 17 carries (close) for 33 yards (not close) en route to a staggering 1.9 YPC good for last out of all eligible running backs for both teams.

The run game was inefficient all game long. Plain and simple. The Browns also got down 7-0 without the killer “B’s” even taking the field which didn’t help things, but that is still no excuse for the Browns to have such a poor running game.

With over $62 million invested in their offensive line, logic would suggest that the Browns should be able to run the ball fairly well. But as Browns logic goes, it means the opposite .I am not sure if it was Crowell not being able to see the holes correctly, the offensive line not getting any push or the Steelers defensive line playing exceptionally well.

No matter what the reasons may be, if the Browns plan to keep DeShone Kizer upright and healthy for sixteen games this season they are going to need a better effort from this position group.