Which Cleveland Browns are in the spotlight against the Steelers?

Nick Chubb

One way to help a defense that is dealing with a bunch of injuries is to keep them off the field. In order for the Browns to do that, they need Chubb to have a solid performance so their offense can dominate the time of possession.

In his first start of the season last week, Chubb rushed for 80 yards and a touchdown on 18 carries. When the Browns played the Steelers Week 1, Chubb played only four offensive snaps and rushed the ball three times for 21 yards.

Chubb showed against the Buccaneers that he can be a workhorse running back that can remain effective late in the game.

When the Browns played the Steelers in the regular season opener, the Steelers defense were not concerned with Tyrod Taylor throwing the ball, so they stacked the box against the run. Other than Taylor scrambling for some big yardage, the Browns run game struggled.

With Mayfield under center, the Browns passing offense should be more threatening and not allow the Steelers to sell out against the run. That should create more running opportunities for Chubb than what Hyde had Week 1.

A solid rushing performance from Chubb could also help alleviate the pressure from the Steelers edge rushers. If the Browns can effectively run play-action, it will help pause some of the pressure from Dupree and Watt.

For what a solid run game can do for the Browns offense this Sunday, it is fair to say that Chubb should have the biggest spotlight of any Browns player against the Steelers.