CLEVELAND — After engaging in some lighthearted fun, including making a snow angel, throwing snowballs, and joyfully singing “Jingle Bells,” Jameis Winston wrapped up his postgame press conference with a candid inquiry: “Am I a Brown yet?” The answer is affirmative, and perhaps for a more extended period than one might expect.
Winston made his mark in Cleveland’s football history on Thursday night by guiding the Browns to a notable 24-19 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, halting their five-game winning streak. The game, played in what can only be described as a vast snow globe at Huntington Bank Field, elevated Winston to instant hero status among the Browns’ fanbase and added a complex layer to the team’s ongoing quarterback situation.
In his fourth start due to Deshaun Watson’s season-ending Achilles injury, Winston delivered a series of impactful plays that secured a win for the Browns (3-8), a result that could ease speculation regarding coach Kevin Stefanski’s job security. In Cleveland, victories over the Steelers hold significant value, transcending mere league standings.
Beyond the immediate satisfaction of the win, Winston’s performance has opened up new avenues for the Browns as they strategize their future. The uncertainty surrounding Watson’s status clouds the horizon, lending the possibility that the team may part ways with their expensive quarterback. Although Winston was initially signed to serve as Watson’s backup for one year, the twists of the 2024 season have created scenarios where the experienced 30-year-old may evolve into the team’s starting quarterback or serve as a transitional figure until a younger talent emerges.
What remains clear is Winston’s impact on the field. He demonstrated his ability to change the game, notably with a crucial touchdown leap on a fourth-and-2 play that gave the Browns a commanding 18-6 lead in the fourth quarter. With his exuberant personality and consistent enthusiasm, whether in practice or while executing plays, he has inspired those around him.
“He’s an incredibly genuine individual,” remarked Stefanski during a Zoom meeting. “His consistency is remarkable; he brings unmatched energy to our team, day in and day out, and his teammates truly value that.”
As a starter with a 2-2 record, which includes wins against formidable teams like the Steelers and Baltimore Ravens, Winston has captivated the Browns with his passionate pregame speeches. However, what stands out to his teammates is his composed demeanor amid challenges. Myles Garrett highlighted Winston’s focus and calmness, noting, “He doesn’t get rattled. His mentality is always about moving forward and getting the job done, and that’s commendable.”
In contrast to Watson, Winston has succeeded in driving the Browns’ offense forward effectively. The team managed to score more than 20 points for just the second occasion this season. Similar to Joe Flacco last year, Winston has illustrated that Stefanski’s system thrives when a quarterback exercises patience to let plays develop or takes calculated risks down the field.
That said, there remains room for improvement; although conditions played a role, the Browns struggled with a dismal 1 of 10 performance on third downs, a persistent issue throughout the season. On the bright side, the team displayed resilience by converting all four of their fourth-down attempts, including a pivotal fourth-and-3 pass from Winston to Jerry Jeudy that set up Nick Chubb’s game-winning touchdown.
In terms of individual performances, right tackle Jack Conklin stood out by effectively managing Pittsburgh’s star pass rusher, T.J. Watt, who went without a sack. Conklin has made an impressive recovery since undergoing knee surgery last year, further solidifying his position on the line. Conversely, the ownership duo of Dee and Jimmy Haslam faced criticism for their plans to build a dome; Winston eloquently pointed out the unmatched beauty of the snow-filled atmosphere during the game.
In injury news, wide receiver Cedric Tillman is currently under concussion protocol after sustaining a significant hit during the game.
As for noteworthy statistics, the Browns have secured nine consecutive home victories in Thursday night games, three of which have been against the Steelers. Looking ahead, the team will enjoy an extended break before their upcoming matchup against the Denver Broncos on December 2.