The Browns had a sloppy game with eight penalties and three turnovers, and they could never get the running game going, but they made the most of their opportunities, including creating four turnovers and Dustin Hopkins making a huge field goal late from 55 yards out to put the game out of reach for Jacksonville.
It was not perfect, but Browns quarterback Joe Flacco did throw for over 300 yards, including a huge 4th down throw to David Bell that he took to the house for a 41-yard touchdown throw.
David Njoku also had a big day with two touchdowns and six receptions for 91 yards.
Martin Emerson had a career day with two interceptions, and Greg Newsome had a big bounce-back game with an interception. Both efforts helped the Browns to victory without star player Denzel Ward.
Cleveland got a victory as they were down multiple players in multiple positions, but were able to win by making big plays in critical moments in the game.
Browns move to 8-5 all alone in the 5th slot for the playoffs.
In his inaugural appearance at home for Cleveland, Joe Flacco threw for 311 yards and three touchdowns, showcasing the kind of performance he frequently delivered as a visitor with Baltimore. The 38-year-old quarterback, signed just three weeks ago by the Browns (8-5), exhibited a strong showing, going 26 of 45 and maintaining a 10-2 record as a starter in Cleveland.
Despite spraining his right ankle earlier in the week, Trevor Lawrence played for the Jaguars (8-5) and threw a season-high three interceptions. Despite the setbacks, Lawrence led a late rally, connecting with Evan Engram for a touchdown with 1:33 left, narrowing the score to 31-27. However, Myles Garrett’s sack on the 2-point conversion attempt secured the win for the Browns, who also recovered an onside kick.
Flacco’s contributions included two first-half touchdown passes to tight end David Njoku and a crucial 41-yard completion to wide receiver David Bell in the fourth quarter. Facing an aggressive all-out blitz by the Jaguars on fourth down, Flacco capitalized on the opportunity.
The Browns, dealing with quarterback challenges due to injuries, have placed their playoff hopes on Flacco, who will lead their push in the remaining games. Despite Lawrence’s efforts, the Jaguars suffered their second loss in six days, with Lawrence finishing 28 of 50 for 257 yards.
Lawrence faced challenges with the absence of one of his top receivers, Christian Kirk, who was placed on injured reserve. The Jaguars, dealing with injuries on both sides of the ball, aim to maintain their lead in the AFC South, despite losing for the first time in seven road games.
The Browns took the lead with a 31-21 score after Dustin Hopkins kicked a 55-yard field goal with 3:10 remaining. Browns coach Kevin Stefanski strategically kept the starting quarterback undisclosed, opting for Flacco over rookie Dorian Thompson-Robinson.
Flacco’s immediate impact was evident as he led the Browns down the field for an early 7-0 lead, faking a handoff to Njoku for a 34-yard touchdown. Njoku scored his second touchdown of the game, showcasing the first multi-TD game of his career.
Despite Jacksonville’s defensive efforts and a turnover leading to a touchdown, Lawrence struggled with accuracy in the first half, completing 11 of 22 passes for 100 yards. Martin Emerson intercepted Lawrence twice, contributing to the Browns’ defensive efforts.
In the end, Flacco’s veteran presence and clutch play secured the victory for the Browns, highlighting his value as the team’s chosen quarterback for the playoff push.
Browns: Starting C Ethan Pocic suffered a neck stinger in the first quarter and didn’t return. Nick Harris filled in. … DT Jordan Elliott suffered a concussion in the first half. … S Grant Delpit (groin) got hurt in the fourth quarter. … S Juan Thornhill (calf) was a game-time scratch. Undrafted rookie Ronnie Hickman took his starting spot.
Host the Chicago Bears next Sunday.
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