Cleveland Browns studs and duds from Week 14 victory over Bengals
By Dan Justik
The Cleveland Browns did not play their best game, but they did enough to defeat Cincinnati 27-19. Here’s a look at the Browns studs and duds from their victory.
Needing a win to keep their slim postseason chances alive, the Cleveland Browns defended their home turf against the Cincinnati Bengals, winning the Week 14 matchup 27-19. It may have been another sloppy game for Cleveland, but the result is exactly what they needed.
The on-field performance is not matching the talent level of the Browns. They are still unable to build momentum on offense for long stretches and they continue to leave opportunities on the field. Although they scored enough to defeat the Bengals, it was far from a promising performance.
The Bengals gave a Browns a scare in the first half, as they were able to make it a tight game at halftime. But after coming out of the locker room, the Browns were able to make more plays than Cincinnati in the second half.
It may not have Cleveland’s best game, but a win is a win, and that is all the Browns need right now. Here is a look at the studs and duds from Cleveland’s divisional victory.
Honorable Mention Stud: Denzel Ward
As much as the Browns offense was struggling in the first half, they were going to need the defense to make some game changing plays. Cleveland got the help they needed with over five minutes left in the first quarter when Denzel Ward returned a deflected pass 61 yards for a touchdown.
The pick-six gave the Browns their first points of the game and built some momentum. Although the ball right into the arms of Ward, his speed made it nearly impossible for any Bengal to catch him before the end zone.
Despite the touchdown, Ward did have his issues with the Bengals as they picked apart the Cleveland secondary with quick, short throws. Ward allowed several receptions, even though none of them turned into big plays.
It may not have been a complete game for Ward, but his interception was a huge moment in the game and helped give the Browns early life.