The Cleveland Browns did the unthinkable in Week 2 and overcame the odds to defeat the Bucs on the road. They go into their home opener with a record of 1-1, and head coach Todd Monken has his first win as a head coach in the NFL.
To get there, though, there were a lot of twists and turns.
The biggest was a nearly two-hour weather delay as the two-minute warning was taking place with the Bucs in possession of the ball. When they came back, the Bucs nearly pulled off the comeback, but the Browns' defense held strong, and they won 23-19.
Following that eventful game and delay, we have some instant takeaways to share.
Deshaun Watson should start until further notice
There is no one who wants the Browns to draft a top quarterback prospect in 2027 more than me. I write updated quarterback rankings
every week. We even do overall draft content here on Browns Wire, and yet Deshaun Watson silenced those voices in Week 2 with his performance.
Blake Whiteheart gives the Browns the lead!
— NFL (@NFL) September 20, 2026
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It was far from perfect, but it was maybe the best game he has played as a Brown. Yes, that is a low bar to surpass, but it came when he needed it most, with pre-game reports that he could be replaced before the home opener in Week 3. He had just four incompletions; Denzel Boston helped him out with a 55-yard touchdown, but most importantly, he didn't turn the ball over. Because of all of that, Watson should firmly have the starting job locked up until further notice.
Penalties will sink this team if they continue
The Browns had a whopping 11 penalties in Week 1 against the Jacksonville Jaguars. It was a sloppy, unimpressive game from them, with those leading the way in terms of mistakes.
Fast forward to halftime of today, the Browns were looking like they were going to repeat that performance. They had five penalties for 50 yards and never looked back. The end result of them cleaning things up? They secured their first win. If the penalties are kept down this season, they can win games. However, when they get sloppy, things get away from them.
It will be up to them and this coaching staff to continue to work on these things to avoid this season slipping through their fingers.
Mason Graham is the next star on this defensive line
Mason Graham starting Year 2 strong 💪
— NFL (@NFL) September 20, 2026
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In back-to-back weeks, Mason Graham has had sacks to start the year. After the trade of Myles Garrett, there was some discussion surrounding who would surpass him as the defensive leader. Many crowned Jared Verse as that piece, but it may be Graham.
The pass rush in general was much better in Week 2 compared to Week 1. Against a tough Bucs' offensive line, they found a way to push them back, clog running lanes, and Graham was spearheading that play from them. He will have more eyes on him in Week 3 and beyond, and it will be warranted.
This article originally appeared on Browns Wire: Instant Takeaways from the Browns' Week 2 win over the Bucs
