Deshaun Watson put the worries aside as he looked sharp going three for three in his one drive. Elijah Moore also looked great and really stands out as a player to watch going forward. Moore did head into the locker room during the game, but it seems like he’s going to be ok.
The Brown’s defense looked very good throughout and was highlighted by a safety in the endzone on a holding penalty by the Commanders. Martin Emerson shined in this game and it is hard seeing him at this point not starting for the Browns in the opening week.
Cade York just brings nerves from here on out if he is kicking for the Browns. Another missed kick tonight from 46 yards out and he is to the point, it has to be discussed at the top level on what to do as it was not close on his attempt from 46 yards.
Deshaun Watson appears to have fully reclaimed his stride.
All the hindrances that held him back from performing like a top-tier quarterback in 2022 – the extended hiatus and the lengthy suspension – seem to have dissipated.
“I’m not concerned about any residual rust,” he remarked. “That was last year. I missed the game.”
Watson came tantalizingly close to a perfect start in the preseason, and Jacoby Brissett made a triumphant return to Cleveland as the Washington Commanders secured a 17-15 victory against the Browns on Friday night. The exhibition was delayed over an hour at the outset due to a storm.
Watson led the Browns (1-1) on a 67-yard drive that culminated at Washington’s 1-yard line during his sole series.
His performance – completing all three passes for 12 yards, along with a 20-yard rushing gain – stood in stark contrast to his preseason debut a year prior, when he managed just one successful pass against Jacksonville shortly before his NFL suspension.
“I wouldn’t call it satisfying because we didn’t reach the end zone,” he stated. “However, it aligned precisely with the coaching staff’s objectives.”
Sam Howell of Washington, striving to maintain his starting role, connected with Jahan Dotson for a 26-yard touchdown and had several other notable moments during his two series. He finished with a 9-of-12 completion rate for 77 yards.
Brissett then took over for Howell; Brissett had started 11 games for Cleveland in 2022 while Watson was sidelined. In the second quarter, the 30-year-old scampered 12 yards for a touchdown, giving the Commanders (1-0) a 14-2 lead.
Brissett’s entry was met with a robust ovation from Cleveland fans.
“It was fantastic,” he enthused. “Certainly unexpected. I cherished my time here. I hold a great deal of respect and affection for the organization, its players, coaches, and staff.”
Browns rookie QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson threw a touchdown pass to David Bell in the third quarter, and Kellen Mond’s 20-yard touchdown pass to Mike Harley Jr. with 1:39 left brought Cleveland within 17-15.
However, the Browns’ attempt at a 2-point conversion faltered.
The thunderstorm led to a 70-minute delay in the opening kickoff, forcing fans to seek refuge. Despite the wet conditions, both Commanders coach Ron Rivera and Browns coach Kevin Stefanski decided to field most of their starters.
Watson donned a Jim Brown throwback jersey upon his arrival at Browns Stadium. Despite facing allegations of sexual assault and harassment by multiple women, the team invested $230 million in him.
Even upon his return, Watson’s performance rarely met expectations, with a 3-3 record in six starts. The Browns and Watson himself are anticipating a much stronger showing this season.
“I participated in six games last year and had a complete offseason,” he emphasized. “Thus, I’m not using any excuses for rust or related matters. I must be prepared for this juncture. Any rust and other remnants from 2022 are now behind me, and I’m entirely focused on 2023 and ensuring my readiness for the September 10 opener.”
Watson showcased his connection with new teammates, promptly linking up with Elijah Moore for a 6-yard pass on Cleveland’s initial play. Additionally, he demonstrated his agility by eluding Chase Young for a 9-yard run.
Moore exited the field after Cleveland’s opening series, but the team confirmed that X-rays on his ribs yielded negative results.
Thur 8/17 7:30 PM EST – Game 3 of Pre-Season at Philadelphia Eagles
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