Deshaun Watson outplays Baker Mayfield, leading the Browns to a 23-19 win over the Buccaneers

In a game delayed by lightning, Deshaun Watson outplayed Baker Mayfield, leading the Cleveland Browns to a thrilling 23-19 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The storm caused a two-hour, 12-minute delay at the beginning of the match, leading to heavy rain and further delays. Watson's performance was significant, as it was his best game since September 24, 2023, against Tennessee.

He completed 24 of 30 passes for 238 yards, with no turnovers and a 121.9 passer rating. Watson threw two touchdown passes, including a crucial 17-yard toss to Blake Whiteheart in the fourth quarter that secured the win. Before the game, Mayfield had been traded to the Carolina Panthers after Watson joined Cleveland in 2022. Despite being released by the Panthers due to off-field issues, Mayfield returned to the Buccaneers and had a remarkable career there, making two Pro Bowls and signing a $165 million contract extension.

Watson's strong performance against the Buccaneers should quell doubts about his future with the team, giving first-year coach Todd Monken confidence to continue with him. Both teams' kickers, Chase McLaughlin for Tampa Bay and Andre Szmyt for Cleveland, were instrumental, with McLaughlin converting four field goals from 59, 45, 31, and 31 yards, while Szmyt managed to make three field goals from 50, 34, and 34 yards.

In the end, Watson's performance and the Browns' resilience overcame the initial setback caused by the weather, securing their first win of the season in front of their home crowd.