Browns defeat Jets 21-16 in Hall of Fame game with standout performance by Dorian Thompson-Robinson

The Cleveland Browns win the Hall of Fame game against the New York Jets with a final score of 21-16.

The Hall of Fame game was a memorable event that not only celebrated Joe Thomas but also resulted in a thrilling victory for the Cleveland Browns. They triumphed over the New York Jets with a final score of 21-16, and now let's dive into the details of how the action unfolded.

The Browns had the first possession of the game, and QB Kellen Mond started off strong with a combination of screen passes and a successful connection with WR Cedric Tillman for a 15-yard gain, advancing the ball to the 24-yard line. However, the drive lost momentum when Mond was sacked for a loss of 7 yards. Kicker Cade York attempted a 49-yard field goal but unfortunately missed to the right, keeping the game scoreless.

On the Jets' offensive series, QB Zach Wilson took the field as the backup due to the team's acquisition of QB Aaron Rodgers during the offseason. The Jets struggled to make progress and went three-and-out after Wilson stumbled while attempting to scramble on third down. Despite this setback, the Jets managed to change field position by punting the ball to WR Demetric Felton, who returned it to the 12-yard line.

Cleveland made some progress in moving the ball down the field but eventually had to punt. It's worth noting that WR Daylen Baldwin was penalized for illegal formation on third down, and Mond's throw downfield was almost intercepted by a defender. However, the pass managed to find its way through to Baldwin, who unfortunately couldn't maintain possession, possibly due to his vision being obstructed by the defender. Punter Corey Bojorquez executed a remarkable 58-yard sideline punt, pinning the Jets at their own 5-yard line.

Despite the unfavorable field position, the Jets quickly turned the game around on their second offensive play. Wilson dropped back and connected with WR Malik Taylor on a 57-yard bomb down the left sideline, seemingly beating CB Thomas Graham in coverage. Although the Jets couldn't get any closer to the end zone, veteran kicker Greg Zuerlein successfully kicked a 54-yard field goal, giving the Jets a 3-0 lead.

The following drive began with WR Anthony Schwartz taking a handoff on an end-around play, but unfortunately, he fumbled, handing the ball right back to the Jets. Schwartz seems to struggle with holding onto the football, and it's clear that he needs to overcome this mental hurdle. The Browns' defense managed to limit the Jets to a 44-yard field goal, extending the Jets' lead to 6-0 by the end of the first quarter.

Both teams exchanged possessions at the start of the second quarter. When Mond got his second opportunity of the quarter, he was immediately intercepted while attempting to find Tillman on a crossing route. Mond failed to recognize the underneath defender mirroring Tillman's route, resulting in the turnover.

A few plays later, Jets RB Israel Abanikanda scored a 10-yard touchdown by taking the ball around the left edge. This extended the Jets' lead to 13-0. Finally, Cleveland's offense found some rhythm, although penalties slowed down the drive. After a 17-play, 71-yard drive that consumed 8 minutes and 33 seconds of game clock, Mond threw a 3-yard touchdown pass to RB John Kelly, bringing the score to 13-7 with only 31 seconds left in the half. It's worth mentioning that Kicker York almost missed the extra point.

Despite the Browns' efforts, the Jets managed to score a 53-yard field goal just before halftime, making it a 16-7 game.

The second half belonged to the Browns, thanks to the impressive performance of QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson, who ignited the offense. Thompson-Robinson utilized his running abilities to advance the ball on the first drive of the preseason. RB/WR Demetric Felton ultimately finished the drive with a 16-yard touchdown, narrowing the Jets' lead to 16-14. Notably, Thompson-Robinson's exceptional block played a crucial role in springing Felton for the touchdown.

Cleveland's defense stepped up and made a crucial fourth-down stop on the Jets' next possession, with rookie cornerback Cameron Mitchell breaking up the pass.

The start of the fourth quarter was delayed for approximately 15 minutes due to a partial stadium blackout. Once play resumed, the Browns' offense continued to move the ball effectively. RB Hassan Hall made significant contributions on the ground, and Thompson-Robinson sealed the drive with a 22-yard touchdown pass to WR Austin Watkins, giving the Browns a 21-16 lead.

The Jets had one last opportunity to stage a comeback, but with less than a minute remaining, safety Bubba Bolden intercepted a pass, allowing the Browns to take a knee and secure the victory.

In conclusion, the Hall of Fame game was a thrilling contest that showcased the talents of Joe Thomas and resulted in a well-deserved win for the Cleveland Browns. The game had its ups and downs, with both teams displaying moments of brilliance and areas for improvement. Ultimately, the Browns' determination and strong performance in the second half propelled them to victory.

Share With Others