The Cleveland Browns have been looking for a franchise quarterback for decades now. Now, it seems like they have finally found that in Deshaun Watson. With Watson at the helm and Cleveland seemingly moving to a more pass-first offense, what does that mean for star RB Nick Chubb? Well, according to SportsIllustradted.com Chubb could have his best season yet!
Chubb’s New Role?
The offense being centered around Watson was never going to affect Chubb’s impact on the game. It could be the opposite actually! With Watson being able to move the ball downfield with the pass, it could open bigger and better lanes for Nick Chubb. A good passing game always opens up the running game as well as the other way around.
Looking back to 2020 Baker Mayfield had the best year of his career. Even with Mayfield lighting it up, Nick Chubb also had the best year of his career. Chubb has yet to play under a constantly great QB so his full potential is still untapped. The Cleveland Browns are hoping Watson can return to his Houston form or better. If That is the case, look for Nick Chubb to have a monster year on the ground. A better overall offense will benefit Nick Chubb.
In Cleveland’s last game against the Steelers last season Chubb carried the ball 12 times for 77 yards. Although he averaged 6.4 yards per carry, what was more impressive was his five receptions for 45 yards and a touchdown. Overall that comes out to 17 touches for 122 yards and a TD. That is about 7.1 yards per touch. That is pretty ideal for an average Sunday.
Nick Chubb Takeover!
Should Chubb get more touches? Maybe, but it is all about finding the balance between efficiency and opportunities. The more Nick Chubb gets the ball the less effective he is statistically. Cleveland will also have to be cautious about Chubb’s workload. There will be games where they have to get Chubb the ball to win. There will also be games where Watson will need to get the ball downfield for the majority of the downs.
The Cleveland Browns are expected to make the playoffs this coming season and anything else would be a big failure. This is another reason to watch Nick Chubb’s wear and tear. Cleveland will need to keep him fresh as well as Watson. This is where Watson and Chubb need each other to take over at different times. If they can both have their best seasons Cleveland will be in a very good spot.
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