NFL: Predicting the top 5 running attacks for the 2023 season

CLEVELAND, OHIO - SEPTEMBER 22: Nick Chubb #24 of the Cleveland Browns rushes during the first quarter against the Pittsburgh Steelers at FirstEnergy Stadium on September 22, 2022 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OHIO - SEPTEMBER 22: Nick Chubb #24 of the Cleveland Browns rushes during the first quarter against the Pittsburgh Steelers at FirstEnergy Stadium on September 22, 2022 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Getty Images) /
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NFL 2023
Dec 24, 2022; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III (9) runs the ball during the second half against the Kansas City Chiefs at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports /

NFL Rushing Offense #2: Cleveland Browns

An 11-game suspension kept Deshaun Watson off the field for the beginning half of last season. Jacoby Brissett did what he could to fill in for his teammate. Performances against the Jets, Steelers, and Bills showed glimpses of veteran experience – but it wasn’t enough to maintain a winning record. Throwing the football became less of an option – presenting more carries Nick Chubb.

It didn’t take Chubb too long to warm up in 2023. His hat trick against the Jets in Week 2 sparked a successful season. He scored 12 touchdowns on the season and maintained a five-yard per-carry average. Chubb also tied seventh in rushing rating (90.7) and third in rushing yards (1,525). He will help Deshaun Watson get into a rhythm without rushing his return.

NFL Rushing Offense #1: Seattle Seahawks

The divorce between Russell Wilson and the Seahawks did not end as expected. Seattle actually improved with Geno Smith under center. He earned the highest offensive rating in his career (79.3) and led his franchise to a playoff berth.

A balanced offense helped Seattle conquer the NFC West. We’ll see another dose of it this season. Kenneth Walker III played a vital role. He rushed for 1,050 yards and nine touchdowns (t-9th). His efforts earned Offensive Rookie of the Year and a new devoted NFL fanbase. If Geno Smith doesn’t find his magic, Walker is a reliable back that will add points to the board.

Balanced offenses are lethal. They keep defenses on their toes – resulting in more points. Effective rushing schemes take pressure off developing quarterbacks. Kenny Pickett, Justin Fields, and Jimmy Garoppolo would benefit from a run-first approach. It limits mistakes and keeps the game within reach.