Watson leads Browns past Mayfield's Buccaneers after lengthy weather delay
Cleveland overcomes a two-hour stoppage and a second-half deficit to secure a 23-19 victory.
Deshaun Watson and the Cleveland Browns secured a 23-19 victory over Baker Mayfield and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, overcoming a two-hour weather delay and a second-half deficit at Raymond James Stadium. The win potentially silenced doubts surrounding Watson's performance after the Browns' Week 1 loss.
Weather Disrupts Play
The game was suspended due to lightning, high winds, and heavy rain, forcing both teams into the locker rooms for over two hours. Play was halted with the Browns leading and facing a second-and-4 situation on Cleveland's 28-yard line.
When play resumed, the Buccaneers managed to gain a first down, but the Browns' defense intensified its pressure on Mayfield. A costly holding penalty pushed the Buccaneers back, and Mayfield's final pass into the end zone fell incomplete, sealing the victory for Cleveland.
Watson completed 24 of 30 passes for 238 yards and two touchdowns. His first touchdown pass went to rookie Denzel Boston, who led the team with five catches for 95 yards. The win marked the first career victory for Browns head coach Todd Monken.
Mayfield, who was playing against the team that drafted him first overall, finished the game struggling against the Browns' defense, particularly in the rain. The Buccaneers had hoped to bounce back after a Week 1 loss where Mayfield had issues with turnovers.
Watson's Performance
Watson's performance in this game was a notable improvement from the Browns' Week 1 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. His efforts on Sunday are expected to solidify his role as the team's starting quarterback.
Following the game, Mayfield and Watson were seen interacting on the field. The Browns are set to host their home opener next week against the Carolina Panthers, where Watson's reception from the home crowd will be closely watched.
The Buccaneers will host the Minnesota Vikings next week, who are coming off a game that was also affected by weather and saw their defense perform strongly against the Chicago Bears.