The Cleveland Browns (1-1) defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (0-2) 23-19 in Tampa Bay, driven by Deshaun Watson’s precision and Denzel Boston’s game-winning touchdown.
The Cleveland Browns secured a vital 23-19 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, September 20, improving their record to 1-1 while dropping the Buccaneers to 0-2. The decisive factor was an efficient offensive performance from quarterback Deshaun Watson, who completed 24 of 30 passes for 238 yards and two touchdowns, culminating in a 55-yard strike to wide receiver Denzel Boston that sealed the win in the final moments.
Cleveland Browns Performance
Deshaun Watson delivered a masterclass in efficiency, completing 80% of his throws without turning the ball over. Beyond the air attack, Watson contributed on the ground with seven carries for 22 yards, keeping drives alive when necessary. His connection with Denzel Boston proved fatal for the Buccaneers’ defense; Boston hauled in five receptions for 95 yards, including the critical 55-yard touchdown that broke a tie late in the game.
The Browns’ special teams unit provided stability throughout the contest. Kicker Andre Szmyt connected on four field goals, including two from 34 yards and one from 50 yards, ensuring Cleveland remained within striking distance during the first half. Defensively, linebacker Carson Schwesinger anchored the effort with a team-high 10 total tackles, while safety Grant Delpit added pressure with one sack.
This road win moves Cleveland to second place in the AFC North. However, the victory comes with significant caveats regarding roster health. The injury report is extensive heading into Week 3, with key contributors sidelined or placed on Injured Reserve. Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah and Teven Jenkins are listed as out, while Jacob Parrish, Josh Hayes, Mohamed Kamara, David Sills V, Deshawn McKnight, Dylan Sampson, Dillon Gabriel, and Kendrick Green have been placed on Injured Reserve. Depth will be heavily tested against Carolina.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Performance
Despite the loss, the Buccaneers showed resilience through strong individual performances. Quarterback Baker Mayfield completed 21 of 34 passes for 182 yards and one touchdown, though he did throw one interception that hampered momentum. His only scoring pass went to Emeka Egbuka on a 5-yard strike. Running back Bucky Irving led the ground attack with 17 carries for 89 yards, providing a consistent threat in short-yardage situations.
On the receiving end, Tez Johnson recorded the team’s top receiving yardage with one catch for 49 yards. Defensively, the Buccaneers kept the game close until the final drive. Linebacker Josiah Trotter was the defensive workhorse, tallying 13 total tackles, while defensive lineman A’Shawn Robinson contributed one sack. Chase McLaughlin was reliable from the kicking lane, converting three field goals ranging from 31 to 59 yards to keep Tampa Bay in contention.
The Buccaneers struggled to contain big plays downfield, particularly against Boston’s speed. The inability to generate a stop on Cleveland’s final drive allowed the Browns to escape with the win. Head coach Todd Bowles now faces a must-win scenario as the team looks to snap their losing streak and address defensive gaps exposed in the fourth quarter.
Turning Point
The game remained tightly contested until the final sequence where Denzel Boston’s 55-yard touchdown reception shifted the momentum irreversibly. Prior to this play, the score was tied, fueled by alternating field goals from Szmyt and McLaughlin. Boston’s catch capitalized on a coverage breakdown, allowing him to outrun defenders for the go-ahead score. This play highlighted the difference between the two offenses: Watson’s ability to stretch the field versus Mayfield’s more methodical, short-to-intermediate approach.
What It Means Next
For the Cleveland Browns, this victory validates their early-season strategy and Watson’s role as starter. They return home to host the Carolina Panthers on Sunday, September 27, at 1:00 PM ET. This marks their first home game of the season, but the squad must navigate a depleted roster. The upcoming challenge will test how much depth Cleveland can muster given the extensive injury list.
For the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the loss drops them to 0-2 and third in the NFC South. They face immediate redemption opportunities against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, September 27, at 8:05 PM ET. With Vikings quarterback Kyler Murray cleared from concussion protocol and confirmed to start, the Bucs must improve their secondary play. The defense needs to limit explosive plays after allowing Boston’s game-winner, while Mayfield must protect the football better to avoid another narrow defeat.
- Watson’s Precision: Deshaun Watson threw zero interceptions and completed 24 of 30 passes, showcasing elite accuracy.
- Boston’s Big Play: Denzel Boston’s 55-yard touchdown was the defining moment of the game.
- Kicking Game: Andre Szmyt and Chase McLaughlin combined for seven field goals, highlighting the importance of special teams.
- Injury Impact: Both teams face significant roster challenges, with Cleveland missing key starters like Owusu-Koramoah and Jenkins.
🎧 Listen daily to both teams
Beatline Sports covers every team, every day — new episodes each morning.