Philadelphia Eagles-Cleveland Browns: 18-18
The clash of substitute quarterbacks turned to the advantage of Dorian Thompson-Robinson. Whatever the team. Because opposite, Marcus Mariota did not show anything reassuring to the Eagles.
Very strong since the Hall of Fame Game, Thompson-Robinson (13/25, 164 yards – 4 carries, 18 yards) started his first game for Cleveland. Still incisive, he just missed the finish. His first offensive was stopped by a fumble from his runner John Kelly just one yard from the end zone. After three punts, Cleveland finally scored two field goals to lead 8-3 at the break.
Beyond the points, Thompson-Robinson was still able to be dynamic and precise, which should ensure him a place on the bench for the coming season. The question is whether he will manage to pass in front of Kellen Mond (12/24, 126 yards, 1 TD) for Deshaun Watson’s understudy position. Mond didn’t stumble on Thursday and he went for more points.
Another player who could make a name for himself is receiver Austin Watkins. Undrafted in 2021, passed by San Francisco, Tampa Bay and the CFL, the 25-year-old put on the show with 7 receptions for 139 yards, including a 32-length touchdown. In defense, special mention to Mohamoud Diabate, undrafted linebacker who accumulated 7 tackles, 2 pressures on the quarterback, a forced fumble and a safety provoked.
Marcus Mariota disappointing
If Cleveland suffered to score in the first half, it was mainly because of Nakobe Dean. It was he who caused the fumble over the Browns’ first possession. A good point for the Philadelphia defense.
On offense, the backup quarterback position could become a point of concern. Marcus Mariota delivered a performance punctuated by imprecise passes, a nasty interception and balloons kept too long. His record (9/17, 86 yards, 1 int) is saved by short passes. Rookie Tanner McKee (10/18, 147 yards, 1 TD) seemed more inspired and solid when he took over.
