Terry Pluto's Postgame Thoughts on Browns' Victory and Dorian Thompson-Robinson's Role
Terry Pluto's Postgame Thoughts on Browns' Victory and Dorian Thompson-Robinson's Role
Reflections from my notepad after the Browns' 13-10 win against Pittsburgh on Sunday:
1. With a 7-3 record, the Browns have showcased versatility at quarterback, securing victories with three different QBs. Among them, Deshaun Watson led to a 4-1 record, P.J. Walker contributed to a 2-1 record, and Dorian Thompson-Robinson (DTR) achieved a 1-1 score. Although Watson received credit for the win in Indianapolis, it was Walker who carried the workload.
2. Trading Joshua Dobbs to Arizona earlier in the season raised eyebrows. However, despite Dobbs' impressive journey since then, being traded to Minnesota, the Browns maintain a 3-2 record with Walker and DTR, highlighting their confidence in these replacements.
3. The Browns' front office traded Dobbs due to their belief in DTR's potential. They valued the UCLA fifth-round pick among the top five QBs in the draft, considering his extensive college experience under Chip Kelly's tutelage, known for demanding a lot from quarterbacks.
4. Opting for DTR over Walker after Watson's season-ending injury reflected the Browns' strategic focus on DTR's long-term potential over Dobbs, emphasizing the 28-year-old's limited NFL starting experience.
5. DTR's stellar preseason performance, exhibiting a 64% completion rate, 2 TDs, zero interceptions, and a 98.3 rating, validated his swift adaptation to the playbook and composed demeanor amid his NFL training camp debut.
6. Myles Garrett praised DTR's dedication, citing his eagerness to absorb insights from teammates, displaying a genuine passion for the game and a receptive attitude toward learning.
7. Anticipating a significant difference in approach and preparation for his second NFL start against Pittsburgh, DTR's poised performance proved instrumental in navigating a formidable Steelers defense.
8. While not an exceptional game, DTR's steady performance was pivotal in securing a victory against a gritty Pittsburgh side known for their defensive prowess, a testament to DTR's readiness and composure.
9. Despite it being only his first game, the significance of DTR's performance against the Steelers was immense, especially following the emotionally charged win in Baltimore and the setback of Watson's season-ending injury.
10. DTR's pivotal late-game drive propelled the Browns to victory, orchestrating a decisive 48-yard advancement in 76 seconds, culminating in Dustin Hopkins' game-winning 34-yard field goal.
11. Coach Kevin Stefanski acknowledged DTR's poise during critical moments, recognizing his pivotal contributions in the clutch.
12. DTR's statistics may not have been staggering, but his composed playmaking outmatched Pittsburgh's Kenny Pickett, emphasizing the impact of crucial drives in tight contests.
13. The Browns' ability to secure close victories reflects their resilience and adaptability, especially amidst injuries to key players like Nick Chubb and Jack Conklin, showcasing the Jim Schwartz-led defense as a consistent force throughout the season.
14. Garrett emphasized the team's resilience and determination, epitomizing their unwavering commitment to delivering their best performance every game.
15. Defeating divisional rivals Cincinnati, Pittsburgh, and Baltimore amidst challenging circumstances underscores the Browns' impressive season thus far.
16. Garrett highlighted the team's growth and identity assertion, portraying a confident unit that imposes its will on opponents.
17. The Browns' formidable defense, coupled with exceptional special teams performances from Dustin Hopkins and Corey Bojorquez, positions the team favorably in tight games, provided DTR continues to evolve in navigating different NFL defenses.
