Shedeur Sanders throws TD pass in final chance to win starting QB job but Bills batter Browns 31-7

CLEVELAND (AP) — Shedeur Sanders completed a touchdown pass and demonstrated solid decision-making during his final opportunity to demonstrate his worthiness as Cleveland's starting quarterback, as the Browns suffered a 31-7 preseason defeat to the Buffalo Bills on Saturday. Sanders, who is vying with Deshaun Watson for the No. 1 QB position, completed his initial eight passes, finishing 9 of 11 for 74 yards, with an interception due to poor placement on a throw to tight end Jermaine Terry, which was intercepted by Damar Hamlin.

Playing behind Cleveland's second-string offensive line and a roster primarily composed of backups, Sanders exhibited poise and patience in the pocket—an aspect he lacked when he was a rookie last season. Despite Watson's continued presence in the game, Sanders' performance showcased his potential to become the team's starter. The Bills rested Josh Allen and most of their regular starters, allowing Watson to play the final 20 minutes of the game.

Watson completed 5 of 12 passes for 35 yards, including an interception. He started last week's exhibition opener as the Browns (0-2) lost in Chicago. Cleveland's coach Todd Monken is on the verge of deciding whether to start Watson, who hasn't started any games for Cleveland since 2022 due to injuries and an NFL suspension, or go with Sanders, the fifth-round pick who displayed promise last season.

The Bills (2-0) rested their star quarterback Josh Allen and most of their starters, as first-year coach Joe Brady allowed them to rest on Thursday. Kyle Allen, who played well in the first half, may have secured a role as the No. 2 quarterback following his solid performance. Kyle completed 10 of 12 passes for 128 yards, setting the stage for a 14-7 lead.

Buffalo's Shane Buechele caught a 71-yard touchdown pass to Ja'Mori Maclin in the third quarter, while Buechele also scored a 5-yard touchdown run. After a 64-minute weather delay, Sanders was flawless on Cleveland's initial drive, sealing the deal with an 8-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Luke Floriea. Before kickoff, the Bills issued a statement expressing condolences to defensive end Ed Oliver on the loss of his 2-year-old son, Ed, who drowned in a residential pool in Houston.

Oliver, 28, has been absent from Buffalo's facility for periods this summer due to the tragedy. He is in his eighth season with the team. The Browns have yet to provide an update on starting defensive end Alex Wright, who appeared to sustain a serious lower leg injury during Saturday's game. Wright, signed to a three-year, $33 million contract during the offseason, could help fill the void left by superstar Myles Garrett, who was traded to the Los Angeles Rams.

Cleveland is struggling with limited quality or experienced depth at the defensive end position and may need to sign a free agent or make a trade. Browns' third-year defensive tackle Mike Hall Jr. had a sack in the first quarter, and WR Isaiah Bond was checked for a concussion, clearing in the fourth quarter.