The Cleveland Browns managed to avoid a dreaded 0-3 record with a tough win against the Jacksonville Jaguars that showed marginally improved quarterback play. Radio host and CM contributor Dennis Manoloff breaks down Deshaun Watson’s solid performance.
Here are our three takeaways:
Takeaway One: A win is a win.
"Escape" is the best word to describe the hard-fought win for the Cleveland Browns. "The Browns made a lot of mistakes," says Manoloff. "It was a slop fest. There was rain. There were penalties everywhere. It was raining yellow, as in flags. Browns made plenty of mistakes, but you know what? They won the game."
Takeaway Two: Deshaun Watson bounces back.
After a poor showing against Dallas, Watson was sharp in Jacksonville, delivering accurate throws and using his legs to make key plays. "Fair is fair. Watson was bad last week against Dallas; he was really good this week against Jacksonville," says Manoloff. "Whatever you think of them off the field and everything else, Deshaun Watson was absolutely part of the solution for the Cleveland Browns."
Takeaway Three: Special teams and defense seal the deal.
Corey Bojorquez’s late-game punt and Alex Wright’s critical safety helped clinch the win, showcasing the importance of complementary football in the Browns' success. "Bojorquez, in the late fourth quarter, pins Jacksonville inside the two," says Manoloff. "Then, the very next play, Alex Wright beats two guys and gets the sack of Trevor Lawrence for the safety to make it 18-13. Those two points were absolutely critical.
Brought to you by:
For more updates about Cleveland, sign up for our Cleveland Magazine Daily newsletter, delivered to your inbox six times a week.
Cleveland Magazine is also available in print, publishing 12 times a year with immersive features, helpful guides and beautiful photography and design.
