Finally, after five games of mediocrity, the Cleveland Browns took a big step forward on Monday night.
The Browns defeated the reigning Super Bowl champion New York Giants, 35-14, on “Monday Night Football,” televised on ESPN.
This comes at a time when quarterback Derek Anderson desperately needed a big win to come off the bench.
He got one. The Browns racked up their highest point total of the season as they played exceptionally well against one of the deepest and most elite teams in the NFC.
This game just goes to show how solid Cleveland could be if they stay healthy.
Quarterback Derek Anderson, in every way possible, cemented his place as Cleveland’s starter, humbly saying, “They’re the guys I’ve been telling you about,” speaking about their team. “I never doubted them, never.”
Anderson passed for 310 yards and 2 touchdowns, earning him a 121.3 passer rating. It was one of the best starts of his career.
Anderson’s success was due, in large part, to wide receiver Braylon Edwards’ skill set. The wide-out had the best game of his season, making receptions of 49 and 70 yards. Edward’s final yardage tally included an 11-yard touchdown run. He finished the game with five catches for 154 yards and a touchdown.
The Browns’ defense also held its own against the Giants’ solid offensive attack. Cleveland intercepted Eli Manning three times, one of which saw cornerback Eric Wright drive 94 yards home, a pick-six that sealed the Giant’s fate.
However, the Browns’ defense doubled down a bit, allowing nearly 180 rushing yards.
Don’t tell Corey Williams that stat, though.
Williams, a member of Cleveland’s great defensive line, declared after the game, “We played 4 solid quarters.”
All things considered, if the Browns can stay consistent, don’t be too quick to write them off in the AFC North.
The Ravens lost their third straight game on Sunday, making it 2-3. The Browns also gained a bit of ground on the inactive 4-1 Steelers.
Of course, lowly Cincinnati sits winless at 0-6.
