The Cleveland Browns have built the NFL’s most dominant run defense through three weeks, but the Detroit Lions believe they have the formula to crack it.
Cleveland leads the league by allowing just 57.3 rushing yards per game, shutting down elite ground attacks from Cincinnati, Baltimore, and Green Bay.
However, Lions’ Offensive coordinator John Morton is eager to find out if Cleveland’s defense can keep that dominance going.
“I don’t think they’ve seen a run game like ours yet,” Morton told reporters.
Lions OC John Morton on the #Browns No. 1 run defense (57.3 rushing yards allowed per game):
"I don't think they've seen a run game like ours yet."
— Brad Stainbrook (@StainbrookNFL) September 25, 2025
Detroit enters Sunday averaging 149 rushing yards per game, ranking fourth in the NFL behind the dynamic duo of Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery.
The Lions showcased their ground game’s potential during Monday night’s 38-30 victory over Baltimore.
Detroit established season highs with 38 carries, 224 rushing yards, and four touchdowns on the ground against the Ravens’ defense.
Cleveland’s defensive dominance stems from coordinator Jim Schwartz’s system that controls the line of scrimmage.
Myles Garrett and Maliek Collins continue to be weekly standouts while the Browns finally recorded their first takeaway of the season during their gritty win over Green Bay.
The Browns have also benefited from rookie contributions, with Mason Graham, Carson Schwesinger, and Adin Huntington providing crucial support behind established veterans.
Morton’s bold prediction sets up Sunday’s key battle between Detroit’s confident ground attack and Cleveland’s historically stingy run defense.
The matchup will reveal whether the Browns can preserve their defensive dominance or finally meet their first true test on the ground this season.
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