3 reasons Cleveland Browns will trounce Houston Texans, get 1st win of 2021

2. Cleveland Browns offense will roll

With Tyrod Taylor quarterback the Texans, Houston has become reliant on rushing the ball–a lot. New coach David Culley dialed up 40 running plays during the Texans’ win against Jacksonville in Week 1.

Mark Ingram was the bell cow, carrying 26 times for 85 yards and a score. Tyrod Taylor, also a threat to run, added 40 yards on the ground on just four carries.

Looking back at last week, Houston built up a lead on Jacksonville and  focused on protecting it. Rookie Trevor Lawrence threw for over 330 yards and three touchdowns in defeat. Jacksonville’s two backs only carried a combined 14 times, but averaged just a tick under 5.0 yards per carry.

Mayfield shouldn’t come close to throwing 51 passes! If he does, the Browns are in trouble. Look for coach Kevin Stefanski to deploy more of the same, creating misdirection by effectively executing play-action calls.

Success rushing the ball via Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt are key ingredient to doing just that, especially against Houston’s defensive line.

That Jacksonville was able to average what they did against Houston on limited attempts may indicate the Browns are ready to run all over Houston.