Stefanski has Cleveland Browns playing the right way heading into Pittsburgh

Run the ball

Winning football is built on a strong running game. Cleveland had this in 2019, with Nick Chubb finishing second in the NFL in rushing. In 2020, they have done even better, and it has not mattered who is running the ball.

While Chubb is clearly the best back on the roster, and the Browns would love to have him back from IR, the running game help up against the Colts with 124 yards and key runs to ice the game in the end. Kareem Hunt was able to be the workhorse with 20 carries and 72 yards and a nice ten yarder in the fourth quarter, followed by D’Ernest Johnson sealing the win with a 28-yard scamper that led to a field goal. While the running game did not put up the gaudy numbers from the previous two weeks, it still kept the Colts honest and provided the necessary blows when needed.

How good is this run game?

We have all watch what this team has been able to do on the ground, and it is impressive. Let’s take a look at how impressive. Currently, the Browns are averaging 188.4 yards per game on the ground, ranking No. 1 in the NFL. That’s nearly 28 yards a game better than anyone. The next closest team to the Browns? The Ravens at 160.6 yards per game. Want more?

•  5.5 yards per carry (No. 2 in the NFL)
• 49 first downs running the football (No. 1 tied with the Rams and Vikings)
• eight touchdowns (No. 2 tied with four other clubs)
• Both Chubb and Hunt are top ten backs per Pro Football Focus(subscription required)

So ‘run the ball’ pillar, check. The Browns are the best running attack in the NFL and do not look like they will slow down any time soon.