NFL5d ago
Browns Run Game Woes Fuel Offensive Shortfalls
Cleveland's ground attack has failed to create consistent lanes, leaving the team behind the chains and limiting overall production through five weeks.
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Ground Attack Lags Behind League Average
The Browns rank 21st in rushing yards per game at 94.2 and 23rd in yards per carry at 3.7. A season-low 198 total offensive yards came in their 17-12 loss to the Jets, with the ground game totaling just 96 yards. Quarterback Deshaun Watson's 167 rushing yards account for more than one-third of the team's output, while Quinshon Judkins leads with 221 yards but averages only 3 yards per carry. Judkins also sits at 1.14 yards before first contact, the lowest mark among 41 qualified backs. Against the Jets, Judkins gained 44 yards and Watson added 40.
Line Play and Early Down Issues Compound Problems
The offensive line ranks 26th in run block win rate at 71.1 percent. Cleveland stands 25th in first-down rushing yards per carry at 3.5, contributing to an average of 9 yards needed to convert a first down, the sixth-highest figure in the league. The team has operated out of shotgun on 76.2 percent of plays and 65.7 percent of runs, both league highs, while managing just 30 designed running back carries from under center at a league-low 1.9 yards per attempt.
Injury Updates and Path Forward
Judkins is day-to-day with an ankle injury sustained against the Jets. Running back Dylan Sampson has missed the past four games with a knee injury but could open his practice window this week. Despite the challenges, the unit has identified specific areas for improvement in blocking and execution to build momentum.
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