The Cleveland Browns are usually one of the best rushing teams in the NFL. They have been top 5 the following 3 years in rushing.
2022 5th in rushing 146 yards per game
2021 4th in rushing 145 yards per game
2020 4th in rushing 145 yards per game.
They start their attack with wide zone, and everything else runs off that. We broke down 3 of their games from 2020, Bal, Cin (Week 2), and Dal. In each game they had a different approach and package but the concept of wide zone remained the same.
In the Bal and DAL games they ran weakside and tight side wide zone. When they ran it to the TE side, the TE was in a "Yo" position and it was with a lead blocker. Both variations of plays work for them to produce and efficient running attack.
Below is the 1st example as you see the tight end wing 12 personnel set. The defense sets the front to that side with a 2i on the backside. That is where the Browns attack.
You can see the angles presnap and how they cut off the backside is the key to the play.
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Their offensive line all get on the same angle
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You can see the lanes on the backside as they create a huge run lane.
The RB takes 5 steps before he makes his cut and he sees a lane and takes it.
Next CLE ran the same play vs DAL only with a different offensive setup. CLE coaching staff do a great job creating different looks for the defense, while keeping it repetitive for the OL. Against a 4 Down front, they want to attack weak. Their combo blocks set up much better vs a shade than a 3 tech.
Again they run it to the shade side as they prefer the angles to that side.
Nice job by the Left tackle as he tells the RB it will be cut inside.
Excellent job on the backside combo.
23 personnel
Big package!
On the next play CLE runs wide zone into a 3 down look. The playside Guard and Tackle do a great job of reaching the 3 tech and still gaining stretch by the OT. The FB makes everyone "right" here by cleaning up the hole. When the FB can see what the RB sees and "reads it like the runner" it can be beneficial for everyone.
This time they lead with the FB.
Nice combos upfront.
The FB leads up inside which makes the O.Line right
The final clip shows great coaching and preparation by Coach Callahan. CIN runs a SS blitz to combat wide zone. The OL does a great job handling the movement. Good coordination with 5 guys working together as 1 unit. Tough task to complete at all levels of football.
You see the assignments and how it progresses!
Nice initial push by the OLine and they get to the next level!
Here's a clip of their wide zone vs the Jacksonville Jaguars. Great execution and the rb does a great job staying on his track and making an excellent cut
