Sport

Cleveland Browns Switch to Dorian Thompson-Robinson as Starting Quarterback: What This Means for the Team

2024-12-17

Author: Wai

Introduction

The Cleveland Browns are shaking things up as they prepare for their crucial Week 16 showdown against the Cincinnati Bengals by making a significant quarterback change. The team has announced that they will start second-year quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson, marking his first start of the current season.

Background on the Quarterback Change

This move comes after the disappointing performance of Jameis Winston, who has struggled under center. Reportedly first disclosed by Brad Stainbrook of 247sports.com, Thompson-Robinson will be stepping into the spotlight for what will be the fourth start of his young career. His previous game action this season saw him relieve Winston during a tough loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, where he completed 4-of-9 passes for only 18 yards and committed one interception while adding 16 rushing yards.

Thompson-Robinson's Previous Performance

Dorian Thompson-Robinson's initial appearance of the season occurred when the Browns faced the Bengals on October 20, following Deshaun Watson’s devastating season-ending Achilles injury. In that game, Thompson-Robinson struggled, completing just 11-of-24 passes for 82 yards, accompanied by two interceptions.

Rookie Season Struggles

Looking back at his rookie season, Thompson-Robinson struggled to find his rhythm, completing just 53.6% of his passes for 440 yards, tallying one touchdown against four interceptions across eight games, including three starts.

Winston's Inconsistency

Winston has started the last seven games for Cleveland but has failed to provide the spark the team desperately needs, managing only a 2-5 record during that stretch. His performance has been inconsistent, throwing for 2,121 yards with 13 touchdowns, yet also committing a troubling 12 interceptions, including eight in the last three games alone.

Looking Ahead

With the Browns currently facing a harsh reality of their playoff dreams slipping away, the decision to start Thompson-Robinson may signify a desperate attempt to inject new life into the offense. Fans are left wondering: Will Dorian Thompson-Robinson seize the opportunity and lead the Browns to victory against their divisional rivals, or will the team find itself in even deeper trouble? Stay tuned as this dramatic storyline unfolds!