Browns studs and duds: Reserves shine in Preseason Week 1 win

Stud: Jerome Ford, Running Back

The Browns offense was lackluster in the first quarter, to say the least. Things changed in the second quarter when the second team came in — thanks in large part to rookie Jerome Ford.

Ford ripped off a 41-yard run to get Cleveland deep into Jacksonville territory. He then got back on the field after a Josh Dobbs pass to John Kelly put them inside the 10 and Ford ran in the first touchdown of the preseason for the Browns.

The rookie running back wasn’t done there. He continued to run hard, finishing with 58 yards on 11 rushes. He added another 45 yards on four receptions and had a 14-yard touchdown reception as well.

Not everything was perfect for Ford as he did lose a fumble in the fourth quarter but overall, he showed why he was added in the fifth round out of Cincinnati as he led the Browns in both receiving and rushing yards on the night.

Dud: Jedrick Wills, Left Tackle

Anthony Schwartz dropped three passes, the second coming on a second-and-18 — but it wouldn’t have mattered even if he had caught it since left tackle Jedrick Wills was called for holding on Travon Walker.

Wills was a former No. 10 overall pick who had a roller coaster sophomore campaign. His first attempt to put that behind him was less than ideal as he was pushed around by Walker and had to result to holding to keep him away from Watson.

While it’s true Walker was the No. 1 overall pick, Wills has been going against two No. 1 overall picks in Myles Garrett and Jadeveon Clowney in practice. He should be able to handle a high-profile rookie, especially since he was one himself.