Backed by performances from D’Ernest Johnson and Case Keenum, the Cleveland Browns defeated the Denver Broncos.
The Cleveland Browns were without Baker Mayfield, Nick Chubb, Kareem Hunt, and Jack Conklin Thursday night, but that did not matter as they took down the Denver Broncos 17-14.
D’Ernest Johnson was the breakout player of the game for Cleveland. Johnson rushed for 146 yards and one touchdown on 22 carries.The 146 yard performance from Johnson is the third-highest total in the first career start for a running back.
Most rushing yards in a first career start over the last 30 Seasons
2017: Kareem Hunt (148)
2005: Cadillac Williams (148)
2021: D’Ernest Johnson (146)@ESPNStatsInfo #browns https://t.co/VFN0FpnWJM— Jake Trotter (@Jake_Trotter) October 22, 2021
Without Baker Mayfield it was Case Keenum time. Keenum completed 21 of 33 pass attempts for 199 yards and one touchdown. While the yardage total is not impressive, Keenum was decisive and executed the offense as instructed. Being able to step in on short notice with about a half day of real preparation and guide the offense to a win is no small feat. Keenum stepped up when the Browns needed him to.
If there is one player the Browns offense missed the past four games it was Jarvis Landry. Landry finished with five receptions for 37 yards and was the much needed safety blanket for the thrust into action Keenum. Like it or not, Landry is the most important receiver on the Browns currently and his presence changes how they can operate in the passing game.
The Browns have a mini-bye as their next game is October 31st against Pittsburgh. This will give the team some time to get healthy and Keenum, if still the starter, a bit more time to become more comfortable in the starting role.
