Nick Chubb, Kareem Hunt continue to be driving force for Browns

The Cleveland Browns again showcased their dominating running duo Sunday against the Minnesota Vikings in their 14-7 win. Both running backs, Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt showed the NFL why they are such a special tandem this season. The Browns finished with 185 yards on the ground. The team now leads the league with 708 yards on the ground.

Chubb had his first 100-yard game on 21 carries, while Hunt pounded away on 14 carries for 69 yards. The consistency of what the Browns ground game has contributed to the team’s success can’t be understated.

It’s been a big reason the Browns stand at 3-1, the second year in a row the team has started out this well under Browns coach Kevin Stefanski. Cleveland’s run game has now produced games of 153, 155, 185, and 215 yards gained.

Despite Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield having a less than stellar performance this past week, the Browns running backs are provided that security blanket to a somewhat up and down offense.

In the first four games of the year, Chubb and Hunt have combined for 742 combined yards via the run and pass. While Chubb has been the bruising back, Hunt has been more of the elusive runner and pass-catcher out of the backfield. Chubb has had games now of 83, 84, 95, and 100 yards on the ground.

He’s on pace for over 1,500 yards on the season. Chubb has yet to break off a big run this season. Rather he’s had several runs of 10, 12, or 14 yards. His biggest run was two weeks ago on his 26-yard dash to the end zone against the Houston Texans.

Hunt again had a great game Sunday as he contributed by scoring the Browns only touchdown on the day and also had a big 33 yard run at the close of the first half to get the Browns into field goal range. While Hunt is on pace for 1,000 yards gained on the ground he’s also helping in the pass game too. He’s on pace to reach 500 yards by way of catching the ball.

The best part of having these two running backs in the Browns backfield is that they like playing together and really seem to push each other as the season is unfolding. I fully expect Chubb to hit a few bigger runs this year. He’s been close to breaking a few this season already. Hunt’s reckless abandonment with his play has worked well so far in motivating his teammates.

The Browns play the Los Angeles Chargers next weekend. The Chargers are averaging giving up 170 yards on the ground per game, so look for the Browns to keep pounding the ball down their opponent’s throats.

It’s the winning formula for the Browns.