Chubb-Hunt backfield duo just about back in business

Chubb is back, and so is Duke.

Two closely connected coworkers from one of the Browns’ brighter months will be together again Sunday. This time, it will be Nick Chubb returning from a knee injury for the Browns and Duke Johnson suiting up for visiting Houston, coming off a Texans win in which he was the team’s No. 1 running back.

It ’s a good t ime f or Chubb-Kareem Hunt to become an advanced version of Chubb-Johnson. The Browns have lost two of their last three games since they were 4-1.

“We’ve been banged up these last couple weeks,” Chubb said after practicing Wednesday. “I’m excited to get back on track and start winning some football games.”

Ever since Hunt returned from an eight-game suspension last year, the standing dream has been for ChubbHunt to give the Browns a component no other offense can match. It still might happen.

At times in 2018, the former duo, Chubb-Johnson, did some damage. Late in a 5-1 hot streak, in a win at Denver, Johnson squirted up the middle for 8 yards to set up a fourth-quarter touchdown that became the difference. A week later against the the NFL rushing championship with 1,327 yards as a 2017 rookie, has plenty to offer as a runner. In his four recent chances to start while Chubb’s knee healed, Hunt’s production has been modest: 65 carries, 254 yards (3.9 average), no TDs.

It is worth noting that Hunt has played what amounts to a full season as a Brown. In his 16 games, he has rushed 158 times for 708 yards (4.5 average) and five TDs; he has 55 catches for 398 yards (7.2 average) and five additional TDs.

These aren’t bad numbers, but the point is that the Browns need Chubb and Hunt to be complementary cogs to a greater extent than they have been. Hitting a next level is especially important now that the offense has lost a dynamic presence, Odell Beckham Jr., in the passing game.

Kevin Stefanski wasn’t ready Wednesday to guarantee Chubb will face Houston.

“He’s progressing,” the coach said. “We’ll make a determination Friday.”

Chubb said doctors, trainers and coaches share in the decision of how much he plays Sunday, adding, “It’s more than me just saying I feel great.”

In another breath, Chubb said, “I’m here, and I’m ready to play.”

Chubb’s impact on the offense was captured in a word by tight end Austin Hooper: “H-u-u-u-ge.”