DawgTalkers.net Forums The Archives 2013 NFL Season Looking Back: Browns 31 Bears 38 Bright Spots.

I'm not sure how having a RB in the backfield keeps the defense honest.. unless you are going to run play action and throw the ball down the field.. most 3rd and 1 passes are quick hitters designed to pick up 3 yards.. the defense is going to be sucked up close any way

I think that play action helps open up even short passes to some extent. maybe not 3 yard passes, but of the 10-12 yard variety.

Anything that can freeze a defender or two for a split second helps.

I will agree w/you here.

Having a back in the backfield will at least help in regards to how the defense lines up.