Sanders Shines in Browns Debut: Who Will Be QB1? Analysis and Reactions

Shedeur Sanders Shines in Debut as Starter with the Browns

In a performance that left a pleasant impression, Shedeur Sanders led the Browns to victory in his first game as a starter in the NFL. The young quarterback showed flashes of his talent, completing key passes and demonstrating the precision that characterized him in his college days. Upon concluding the match at Allegiant Stadium, Sanders celebrated with the fans, displaying his signature watch gesture and forming a heart with his hands before meeting with his father, Hall of Famer Deion Sanders. Sanders had a notable performance, completing 11 of 20 passes for 209 yards, a touchdown and an interception in the 24-10 victory over the Raiders. This victory marked a milestone for the Browns, as Sanders became the first quarterback to win his first start since 1995. In addition, it ended a 17-game winless streak for the team when a quarterback made his debut as a starter. Browns coach Kevin Stefanski did not confirm who will be the starter for the next home game against the 49ers. Stefanski indicated that Dillon Gabriel, who was out with concussion protocol, could regain his position once he is cleared. Stefanski praised Sanders’ performance, but declined to speculate on the starting quarterback decision for the next game. “I will always take my time and do what is best for the team,” he stated. Sanders’ performance contrasted with his NFL debut in the game against the Ravens, where he completed only 4 of 16 passes for 47 yards and an interception. With a game plan adapted to his skills and a week of practice with the first team, Sanders showed greater comfort. He was taken down only once, after having suffered two sacks in the game against the Ravens.

Nobody cares if this was a week of preparation. Who cares? A lot of people want to see me fail, and that’s not going to happen.

Shedeur Sanders

Sanders demonstrated his precision and playmaking ability, with a 52-yard pass to wide receiver Isaiah Bond, which was the Browns’ longest play at that moment. Defensive end Myles Garrett praised Sanders, highlighting the difficulty of the throw and his potential for growth. Garrett, for his part, achieved three sacks, setting a new personal record of 18 this season. In the fourth quarter, Sanders threw his first NFL touchdown to Dylan Sampson, who ran 66 yards to the end zone, extending the Browns’ lead to 24-3. Stefanski highlighted Sanders’ ability to execute plays and his willingness to learn and improve. Sanders, who was selected in the fifth round of the draft, began the season as the Browns’ fourth quarterback. Gabriel, a third-round selection, and veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett, were ahead of Sanders in the hierarchy. Following Flacco’s departure, Sanders moved up to the backup position, opening the door for his first start. Sanders expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to play and prove his worth. “I am grateful to be here, to have an opportunity, to be able to go out and play,” Sanders said. “There is a long way to go. It is allowing me to grow, and I know that there is only one way and that is up.”