As the Browns-Bengals clash was underway on Sunday in Cleveland, the home team supporters exhibited polarised emotions. Some resorted to loud jeers when their own quarterback, Deshaun Watson, appeared on the field. In contrast, Nick Chubb, the returning running back from an extensive injury break, was eagerly cheered by the crowd, indicating the fans’ sentiments towards Watson.
But the game took a daunting turn for Watson in the second quarter. The Browns’ quarterback fell, sparking fears of a serious achilles tear. With projections hinting at his absence from the coming games, possibly for the entire season, there’s a chance it might mark the end of Watson’s professional career. Achilles injuries tend to shadow the players’ future performance, and Watson certainly was not at the peak of his game recently. His departure from the field led to a surge in emotions among Cleveland’s fans, resulting in a mixed response.
Some showed sympathy, despite Watson’s disappointing stint as Cleveland’s central player and his problematic off-field behaviour, as injuries are always unfortunate. However, others weren’t as considerate, with a noted rise in cheering as Watson succumbed to injury. Greg Newsome II, Cleveland’s cornerback, dismissed the behaviour as inappropriate.
Yet, one joint sentiment harboured by Browns supporters is regret. A profound regret. The $230m contract sanctioned by Browns owner, Jimmy Haslam, to Watson in 2022 is being scrutinised as the most unproductive deal in NFL history, made worse by Watson’s injury. Haslam had set an unpromising precedent of contract allowance by entrusting the franchise to a player who was likely slated for a long-term ban due to sexual misconduct allegations—he was eventually suspended for 11 games. Decidedly, Haslam’s strategic move to balance Watson’s controversial personal life with his ability on the field was not a success.
Watson didn’t take the field until Week 13 of the 2022 season. His overall showing that season could best be described as middling. He greatly diverged from his successful image as the energetic and consistent Houston Texans quarterback. The Browns managed a win-loss record of 3-3 with Watson at the helm in 2022, but concluded the season with a dismal 7-10 finish, occupying the bottom spot in the AFC North. His games became painful reminders of public sentiment towards Watson, with jeers ringing consistently from the crowd.
Sadly, Watson’s next season came to an abrupt end due to a shoulder injury. Joe Flacco, the man-of-the people hero, filled his spot admirably, but it was undeniably Cleveland’s top-grade defence that secured their spot in the playoffs.
All positive aspirations for Watson developing into a more valuable quarterback faded quickly this season. With Watson in command, the Browns have posted a 1-6 record, capped by the 21-14 loss to the Cincinnati on Sunday. Watson has failed to surpass 200 passing yards in any game this season and sits at the bottom of the QBR rankings among eligible quarterbacks. It’s also worth noting that severing the relationship with Watson comes at a hefty price, given his guarantee of $46m a year for the final two years of his contract. Despite the wide array of inefficient franchises in the NFL, it is unlikely that any of them would be foolish enough to shoulder Watson’s mammoth contract.
Regardless of viewpoint, it can’t be denied that Watson’s tumultuous Cleveland journey has been far from a success. This disappointment is further amplified by accusations of sexual misbehaviour from more than 24 women. Absence of criminal charges due to out of court settlements doesn’t alter the bitter fan sentiment. Many argue that no quarterback rating could rectify the public opinion surrounding Watson.
Moving past the unfortunate Watson era is a challenge that the Browns will face in the years to come. This process might prove difficult for some to comprehend. Jameis Winston, the person ending Sunday’s game as Cleveland’s quarterback, was questioned about Watson post-match. He stated, “I’m glad I had the opportunity to support Deshaun. However, I feel very disturbed by the reaction to a man who has faced a torrent of disapproval over the last four years.”
Winston might find value in questioning why Watson initially fell out of favour worldwide.
Jared Goff of the Detroit Lions has been named Week MVP. His standout performance was demonstrated in a 31-29 victory over the formerly unconquered Minnesota Vikings, where he scored a beautiful touchdown in the final moments of the first half. It was this performance that reminded Vikings’ defensive coordinator Brian Flores of Goff’s ability to perform under pressure, which contrasts greatly from the other quarterbacks Flores’ defense has intimidated. Despite not achieving perfection, with a record of 22 for 25 for 280 yards, two touchdowns, and zero turnovers in his third consecutive game, resulting in a 140-plus passer rating, he placed himself amongst only three other quarterbacks in NFL history – Aaron Rodgers (2011), Kurt Warner (1999), and Roger Staubach (1971).
The standout statistic of the week is 176 yards. Saquon Barkley silenced those puzzled by his presence in an Eagles uniform when he led the team to a 28-3 triumph against his old team, the Giants. Barkley put up impressive numbers, rushing for 176 yards on 17 carries, and scoring a touchdown. He has the second-highest number of rushing yards for a player against their former team, with only Cedric Benson rushing more yards against the Chicago Bears when he played for the Bengals. Barkley had to witness his former fans burning his jersey outside MetLife Stadium before the game, an action he claims motivated him.
Patrick Mahomes’ impressive run leading to a touchdown can be analysed in two ways: a) Admire his sight and tenacity, wonderful for a man running 4.80 at the combine, or b) Notice his ability to manoeuvre around potential tacklers who fear even brushing against him would result in a penalty.
The Super Bowl rematch proved to be less of a clash and more of a one-sided game. The Chiefs secured a win over the 49ers with a score of 28-18, despite Brock Purdy’s numerous interceptions, one of which happened during a crucial third and goal. Patrick Mahomes, quarterback for the Chiefs, also made some errors with two interceptions of his own. However, the Chiefs still managed to outperform the 49ers through creative plays on both offence and defence, led by Steve Spagnuolo. Although the Chiefs’ offensive prowess has somewhat waned from previous years, they remain unbeaten at 6-0.
As for the 49ers, the weak performance has brought Purdy’s performance into question. Despite these valid concerns, the 49ers, currently at 3-4, are also grappling with a significant injury list, which includes a possible torn ACL for receiver, Brandon Aiyuk. A silver lining from this game saw debutant Ricky Pearsall, who was shot in the chest just 50 days prior, make his NFL bow. Evidently enthusiastic he exclaimed, “I feel like I could play another game right now,” a sentiment backed by his three receptions totalling 21 yards.
In other league news, the Washington Commanders experienced a shocking moment when promising rookie Jayden Daniels left the game early due to a rib injury. Marcus Mariota stepped up admirably, leading the team to a resounding 40-7 victory over the Carolina Panthers. As of now, the Commanders hold a slim lead over the Eagles in their division and are set to face the Bears next.
In contrast, the New York Jets’ strategy of firing their head coach and trading for Davante Adams hasn’t paid off. Their downfall continued with a harsh 37-15 defeat to the Pittsburgh Steelers, contributing to their disappointing 2-5 record. Despite having numerous talented players, their gamble on trying to achieve instantaneous success seems to have backfired. On the other end, the Steelers are faring well at 5-2, with Russell Wilson’s two touchdown passes and one run adding excitement to his debut for Pittsburgh.
Keon Coleman, an ardent fan of Amari Cooper, had a standout performance during the Buffalo Bills’ 34-10 victory against the Tennessee Titans. Having a formidable WR1 on the field enabled Coleman to rack up seven targets, four catches and 125 receiving yards.
Green Bay Packers pitted against Houston Texans was anticipated to be an electrifying event, but the actual game didn’t quite match the excitement. The match was nonetheless nail-biting, ending in the Packers’ dramatic win of 24-22, thanks to a 45-yard kick by Packer’s new addition, Brandon McManus, during the game’s last moments. Although the Texans’ offensive plays lacked energy throughout the game and their conservative approach in the latter phase of the game was overly cautious, they managed to stay competitive due to Green Bay’s equally colourless offense and three turnovers, including two interceptions by Jordan Love.
Back in London, the Jacksonville Jaguars finally regained their momentum, scoring 22 points in the second quarter to defeat the Patriots with a 32-16 win. Trevor Lawrence took charge, while newcomer Brian Thomas Jr continued his impressive streak with 89 yards and a touchdown. Despite not playing against the strongest adversary, this win might just have cemented Doug Pederson’s position as the Jags coach for another week, considering their current 2-5 record.