Plenty of things have certainly gone well for the Cleveland Browns this season.
The team currently sits in prime playoff position heading towards the postseason.
There are many factors as to why the Browns are succeeding this season, but one of the main reasons is the performance from their offensive line.
Right now, the Browns lead the league in both pass and run blocking, according to Pro Football Focus.
#Browns lead the league in both pass blocking and run blocking grade pic.twitter.com/d2PQS86OYQ
— PFF (@PFF) December 5, 2020
It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to see that the performance from the offensive line has made a major impact on this team.
Honestly, it’s highly unlikely they’d be in their current position without the outstanding play from their o-line this season.
Holding It Together
This offseason, the Browns made major adjustments and additions to their offensive line.
They were expected to be better than last year, but no one could’ve expected this kind of performance from them.
Both Jack Conklin and Jedrick Wills are in the top 10 for pass block win rate for offensive tackles, according to ESPN.
That’s not all, Joel Bitonio is ranked as the top offensive guard in terms of pass block win rate.
Lastly, JC Tretter holds the second spot for pass block win rate in the league.
The improved pass blocking has tremendously helped quarterback Baker Mayfield this season.
He has more time in the pocket to find open receivers than he did last year.
.@bakermayfield finds @God_Son80 for SIX!
📺: @NFLonCBS pic.twitter.com/AbOZs3L53l
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) November 29, 2020
The improved pass blocking could also be a factor as to why Mayfield has less turnovers than a season ago.
Through 11 games, Mayfield is currently sitting at seven interceptions on the season, so he’s likely headed towards a career-low in picks.
The o-line deserves credit for their running blocking as well this season.
Bitonio also landed himself second in run block win rate for offensive guards, according to ESPN.
The fantastic running blocking has made it look easy for Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt this season.
Honestly, best of luck to any defender trying to take down Chubb.
All of @NickChubb21's top plays vs. the Jaguars 🚂#ProBowlVote + Nick Chubb pic.twitter.com/6TnIIN8mL6
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) December 1, 2020
The front office, coaches, and the players deserve credit for this epic turnaround from the offensive line this season.
It has been truly special to watch and a big reason why the Browns have been this competitive in 2020.
Hopefully, this type of performance will continue happening and get the Browns into the postseason.
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