The Cleveland Browns have clinched the playoffs, thanks to their fourth starting quarterback giving a much needed offensive boost midway through the season. It was a season that could have easily have gone differently. But now, with a game to spare, the Cleveland Browns are looking to see who their upcoming playoff matchup will be against.
Cleveland Browns QB Feeling At Home
It was a great offensive night for Joe Flacco in the first half. Putting up 34 points in the board, the Cleveland Browns were finding success in all offensive aspects against the New York Jets. So much so, that Flacco felt wrapped up in the domination of his team’s performance.
After a reporter asked what it was like playing in the second half, after ‘wanting to celebrate’ the early lead, Flacco shared his perspective:
These games are all tough and it doesn’t matter who you’re playing or how much time is left. You know these games tend to com down to the last few minutes no matter what. It was a tough second half, you turn into a fan at some point when you kind of get up like that, and you want the clock to hit zero.
He would go on to give credit to the Cleveland Browns defense for only allowing a second half field goal, and remaining in control of the game throughout.
But what does he mean by saying that you turn into a fan?
Cleveland Browns Fan Talk
It is hard not to get engulfed in the feeling of a big victory. Especially at the NFL level, even against bad teams, it is rare to see a first half totally get out of hand for a team. Knowing how well this Jets defense has played in the past, and what they’re capable of, you can understand why a sense of a competetive letdown would take over.
For the team, it becomes about seeing how many more scores can be added on, and cheering on teammates after every big play that much more than what normally would be seen. Enjoying the ride of a blowout win is a fun one to be on for any team.
However, when halftime hits, just like what we saw on Thursday, the momentum can often be difficult to transfer into the second half. There is an understandable mental letdown, of knowing that the lead is secure, and it is hard to continue to play at a high level.
This is why Flacco took the chance to credit the defense. Holding the other team throughout the entirety of the game, not just when things were rolling on offense is a great sign for things to come.
Cleveland Browns Next Test
Despite sitting two wins back at the moment, there is an actual chance for the Clevelands Browns to win the AfC North this year. Regardless, their upcoming match against the Cincinnati Bengals is one that is always taken seriously anyway, but has added potential seeding implications on the side.
If you were to ask Flacco, he likely would be disappointed in the second half execution, but for now, he is going to enjoy the home, playoff sealing victory.