Denver Broncos (8-5) – Cleveland Browns (3-9): 41-32
Fireworks in Denver. At the end of a very lively match full of twists and turns, the Broncos won, not without trembling. They will be able to thank Jameis Winston who, if he was the author of a great match, will ultimately have cost his team dearly.
Without shining, Denver is getting closer to the playoffs
If the match was so indecisive until the end, it is partly because Denver did not know how to raise its level of play. On both sides of the ball, the individuality of the Broncos was lacking. On offense first, with Bo Nix (18/35, 294 yards, 1 touchdown, 2 interceptions) less effective than usual. Hampered by the Browns' passrush, the quarterback was also not helped by sometimes questionable playcalling. But it was especially in defense that the shoe hurt. Like Levi Wallace totally overwhelmed by events, the Broncos allowed 497 yards in the air. An anomaly in a season punctuated with success so far. The men of Colorado will remember that they were nevertheless able to do what was necessary, with two pick 6s which weighed heavily in the balance. By Nik Bonitto first, allowing the Broncos to take control before halftime (17-14). Then by Ja'Quan McMillian at the end of the match, to take cover for good.
Victory without panache then, but victory nonetheless. An important success in the race for the playoffs, all before a week of rest which will be welcome.
Jerry Jeudy does not take his revenge
Earlier this week, former Bronco Jerry Jeudy said he wanted to “kick the Broncos’ ass.” Author of his best career game (9 receptions, 235 yards, 1 touchdown), the receiver will have done everything in his power to keep his word. Unfortunately, this will not be enough.
Because even if Cleveland had a very good football match (including 552 yards gained against 400 for the Broncos), it ultimately found itself weighed down by the extravagant Jameis Winston (34/58, 497 yards, 4 touchdowns, 3 interceptions) . As usual, the pitcher blew hot and cold on the Cleveland attack. Very good to start, with a controlled start to the match with well-felt passes to Jerry Jeudy and Elijah Moore. He then twice found David Njoku (9 receptions, 62 yards, 2 touchdowns) in the end zone, allowing the tight end to become the Brown having caught the most touchdowns since 1999. Less good afterwards, because even if Winston manages to find Jeudy for a 70-yard touchdown, then Chubb for a fourth touchdown, he throws 3 interceptions (including 2 pick 6s) over the rest of the game. The Browns didn't get far, but the Browns returned empty-handed.
