Week 2 instant reactions: Browns fall apart in final minutes against Jets
By Randy Gurzi
Nick Chubb ran for three touchdowns but the Cleveland Browns gave up 14 points in the final 1:55 to lose 31-30 against the New York Jets
After finally winning a game in Week 1 for the first time since 2004, the Cleveland Browns were unable to go 2-0 for the first time in 29 years, losing 31-30 to the New York Jets. And the way it happened was beyond heartbreaking.
Nick Chubb, who was sensational all day ran in his third touchdown of the game to give Cleveland a 30-17 lead with less than two minutes to play. Rookie kicker Cade York then missed the extra point, which opened the door for a huge comeback as the defense fell apart.
Corey Davis got free and hauled in a 66-yard touchdown and then Greg Zuerlein’s onside kick was recovered by New York. Veteran quarterback Joe Flacco was able to get the ball in the end zone, hitting rookie receiver Garrett Wilson for six — and Zuerlein’s extra-point made it a one-point win.
Browns secondary is a problem
This was the second week in a row where the secondary gave up a huge touchdown for Cleveland. Against the Panthers in Week 1, they let Robbie Anderson get behind them and Baker Mayfield found him for a 75-yard touchdown.
Carolina nearly came back to win that one but York hit a 58-yarder to secure the win. This week, York will be criticized since his miss set the Jets up for the win, but it was the defensive backs’ inability to stop Joe Flacco — who had four touchdowns — that cost them this game.
Greg Newsome said they were working to fix their issues but it was clear on Sunday that they haven’t figured it out just yet.
Jacoby Brissett looked much better
With just 22 seconds to go, Jacoby Brissett tried to move the offense into field goal rand and after a 21-yard run, he threw a pick to end the game. That wasn’t all on him since he was put in an impossible situation and overall, he played much better this week going 22-of-27 for 229 yards with a touchdown and interception.
Nick Chubb dominance wasted
Chubb was electric all day, going for 87 yards on the ground and 26 through the air. He also had three touchdowns, which should have been enough to win. Unfortunately, it wasn’t and the Browns now have a quick turnaround before facing the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 3 on Thursday Night Football.
