Shedeur Sanders shines in debut as Browns end road woes with 24-10 victory
Shedeur Sanders made a remarkable first start for the Cleveland Browns on Sunday afternoon against the Las Vegas Raiders, delivering a performance that exceeded expectations. Entering the game with a dismal 2-8 record, the Browns had not won a road game this season or since September 15 of last year. The team’s struggles away from home have been well-documented over the past two seasons, but Sanders changed the narrative in his debut, leading Cleveland to a 24-10 victory. This win also marked a significant milestone, ending a streak of 17 consecutive losses for Browns quarterbacks in their first career starts dating back to 1995.
Record-setting performance
Sanders didn’t just secure a win; he also made history. According to ESPN Research, his 10.5 yards per attempt was the highest for a quarterback in their first start since 2022, only trailing Jarrett Stidham’s 10.7. Additionally, it was the most yards per attempt by a Browns quarterback since 2005 when Charlie Fry achieved 11.3.
The young quarterback finished the game with 209 yards on just 11 completions, demonstrating his efficiency and playmaking ability. A standout moment came when he connected on a 52-yard throw while on the run to Isaiah Bond, setting up the Browns’ second touchdown. Sanders’ first touchdown pass was a swing pass to Dylan Sampson, who showcased his speed and elusiveness by racing 66 yards for a score.
Calm under pressure
In the lead-up to his debut, Sanders approached the game with the seriousness of a final exam, preparing meticulously and determined not to fail. His poise was evident throughout the contest; he looked calm and collected in the pocket, managing to avoid pressure effectively and getting sacked just once. The 52-yard completion to Bond was also notable as it marked the Browns’ longest completion by air yards (42) since 2023.
After the game, Sanders reflected on the journey that brought him to this moment. “That’s how life is. Everybody’s not in the best situation, but it’s no excuse. You’ve gotta go out there and perform,” he said, encapsulating his mindset and determination.
Making his case
Sanders made a strong statement about his fit for the Browns, asserting, “I’m who they’ve been looking for,” a direct response to the team’s ongoing quarterback struggles. His performance on the road against a solid opponent makes it difficult for head coach Kevin Stefanski to overlook him as a contender for the starting position moving forward.
As the Browns prepare for their Week 13 matchup against the San Francisco 49ers, Sanders has certainly given Stefanski a compelling reason to ponder his decision. The anticipation surrounding the young quarterback’s future is palpable, and with this debut, he has laid a strong foundation for what could be a promising career in Cleveland.
