Cleveland Browns: 5 offensive takeaways from Week 1

Kizer had rookie moments, but gives us hope

As you’ve read previously, the first game of the season has brought to light some negative aspects of the team. It has also given us some positive things to look forward to watching week in and week out. One of those positive things is DeShone Kizer.

Kizer did not light the world on fire and he did not win the game, but he did show poise, composure and an arm that I have never seen a Browns quarterback have, at least in my lifetime.

The rookie went 20-30 for 222 yards, with one touchdown and one interception and had a passer rating of 85.7. Yes, he held onto the ball too long. Yes, he threw an interception in Pittsburgh territory on a crucial drive for the Browns, which looked like the quintessential “rookie throw.” He also orchestrated a drive late in the fourth quarter to make it a three-point deficit, thanks in large part to his arm.

Next: Discussing the Week 1 loss in the DPD Podcast

This season isn’t meant to make the playoffs, but the DeShone Kizer we saw on Sunday looked like he belonged in the NFL and should be a key piece to the Browns actually competing for the AFC North at some point in the not-so-distant future.