tribtoday
The most anticipated storyline for Sunday's matchup between the Carolina Panthers and Cleveland Browns might not revolve around the players on the field. Instead, all eyes will be on the reception that quarterback Deshaun Watson receives from the home crowd at Cleveland's first regular-season game of the year.
Watson silenced some critics with a solid outing in last Sunday's 23-19 victory at Tampa Bay, throwing for 238 yards and two touchdowns. However, that performance may not be enough to win over the Dawg Pound and other fans who still view the Browns' 2022 trade for Watson as one of the worst in NFL history.
Browns head coach Todd Monken reiterated this week that the best way for Watson to win back the fanbase is through strong play. "What does every fan want? Good football, a chance to win, be proud of their team," Monken said. "I'm excited to come back home and play, because I know the most important thing is seeing the Browns win."
Watson, who boasts the second-highest completion rate in the NFL at 76.9%, admitted he's unsure if he'll receive more support after guiding the Browns to a 1-1 record. The team hasn't started 2-1 since 2023.
Panthers cornerback Mike Jackson praised Watson's ability, saying, "He balled (last week). People will say what they want about him, but when he puts that helmet on he comes ready to play. He can make every throw. He's ready to lead those guys to a victory, so we have to show up."
Cleveland is hoping to revive its running game after averaging just 65.5 yards over the first two weeks. Meanwhile, Carolina's run defense struggled in Week 1, allowing 291 yards to Chicago, but tightened up last week, holding Atlanta to 68 yards in a 34-3 rout.
The Panthers, aiming for their first 2-1 start since 2021, feature one of the league's most potent passing attacks. Bryce Young ranks second in total touchdowns (seven) and passing yards (648), and leads the NFL with nine completions of 25 yards or more. He's also chasing history, looking to become the fourth player ever to record at least 275 passing yards, three touchdown passes, and a passer rating of 100 or higher in each of the first three games.
Cleveland's defense, however, hasn't allowed a 300-yard passer in its last 47 games. "I think it is just trusting each other and execution," Young said. "(Past success) doesn't entitle you to anything. It's 0-0 when we start, so we have to flush it. We have a ton of respect for them and we have to be at our best against their defense."
Key Analysis
One matchup to watch is Panthers tight end Darren Waller against the Browns' linebackers. Carolina brought in the veteran to provide a red-zone threat, and he's delivered. After having a touchdown nullified by offensive pass interference in Week 1, Waller bounced back with two scores last Sunday in Atlanta. At 6-foot-6, he gives Young a sizable target alongside wide receivers Tetairoa McMillan and Jalen Coker. Tampa Bay tight end Cade Otton managed five catches for 38 yards against Cleveland in Week 2, suggesting Waller could find similar success.
Originally reported by tribtoday.