Just days before his first NFL start in more than two years, Jameis Winston showed clear confidence in his abilities, declaring he was ready to perform as a high-level NFL starter. After Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson’s Achilles injury sidelined him for the season, Winston stepped in as the starting QB, aiming to end the team’s five-game losing streak. In a prescient statement, Winston said, “When I’m my very best, I’m a great NFL starter.” He backed those words on Sunday, leading the Browns to a 29-24 victory over the Baltimore Ravens, restoring some hope to Cleveland’s season.
Winston put on a standout performance, setting a new Browns franchise record with 334 passing yards in a debut, complemented by three touchdowns. His 27 completions on 41 attempts included a crucial 38-yard touchdown pass to Cedric Tillman with less than a minute left on the clock, which clinched the win for Cleveland. Head coach Kevin Stefanski praised Winston’s decision-making and his ability to keep the team moving forward. Despite acknowledging that perfection isn’t expected, Stefanski noted that Winston effectively led an offense that had struggled earlier in the season.
A key factor in this game was Stefanski’s decision to delegate playcalling to offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey, who helped bring structure and consistency to the offense. Cleveland scored over 20 points for the first time this season and reached season-highs in passing yards, total yards, and third-down conversions. Winston’s ability to throw deep passes suited Dorsey’s approach; he completed eight passes that traveled more than 15 yards, two of which were touchdowns. In comparison, Watson had achieved just one touchdown pass from that range in seven games, signaling a clear shift in offensive style and effectiveness with Winston under center.
However, Winston’s performance wasn’t without challenges. He fumbled late in the first half, allowing the Ravens to score and take a 10-6 lead into halftime. There were also two close calls for interceptions that Ravens defenders dropped. Despite these moments, Winston remained composed and found Tillman downfield shortly after one near-turnover, effectively rebounding from setbacks. Winston credited Dorsey’s aggressive game strategy for helping him avoid conservative play, which allowed him to take more risks and keep the offense moving downfield.
Beyond his on-field performance, Winston made a significant impact in the locker room, rallying his teammates with a pregame speech on having “unwavering faith.” His leadership and energy helped boost the team’s morale and showcased his readiness to lead. Following the game, Winston expressed certainty in his potential as an NFL quarterback, asserting that his success is rooted in disciplined decision-making. Winston’s debut for the Browns showcased his skill and resilience, offering a fresh sense of optimism to his teammates and fans alike.
