A goal-line moment from Week 1 showcases why against a defense like Baltimore, having an efficient run game will be important. On first down from the Bengals 4-yard line, the Browns were stifled by the Bengals' defense on three consecutive plays. The Browns used three plays to get to the 1-yard line before RB Raheim Sanders bullied his way into the end zone on fourth-and-1 and scored.
Getting into the end zone against the Ravens, even while being within the 5-yard line isn't guaranteed. In 2024, Baltimore was in the top-half of red zone defenses in the NFL. However, facing a Ravens' offense that scored 40 points in Week 1, the Browns must capitalize on scoring opportunities.
"I think we left some yards out there in the run game," head coach Kevin Stefanski said after Week 1. "I think we can absolutely be better in the run game. So that would be a point of emphasis for us. There are some things that we can help our guys with as coaches but ultimately, I think that we certainly can be better."
While the run game was hampered by the Bengals' defense, the Browns had success utilizing running backs like Dylan Sampson in the passing game. Sampson led the Browns in receptions with eight and finished with 64 receiving yards, becoming an easy target for QB Joe Flacco. He capitalized on his receptions, gaining yards after the catch to help the Browns move the ball. Rees called these catches on wide and swing routes from Sampson, 'pseudo runs.'
"Just different ways to get him involved when things aren't clicking as much as you'd want them to," Rees said. "So again, frustrating on the run game part. We have to get that fixed, but to make sure that you still don't lose sight of some of those players and the different ways that they can impact games."