When Shedeur Sanders dropped back to pass in the fourth quarter of Sunday’s game at Allegiant Stadium, the weight of three decades vanished — just like that. The 22-year-old rookie, son of Deion Sanders, threw a 66-yard touchdown to Dylan Sampson that sealed a 24-10 win over the Las Vegas Raiders. It wasn’t just a victory. It was the end of a 17-game losing streak for Cleveland Browns quarterbacks making their first start — a streak that had lasted exactly 30 years, 1 month, and 8 days since Eric Zeier last won one on October 15, 1995.
From Humiliation to Hope
Just seven days earlier, Sanders’ NFL debut had been a nightmare. Against the Baltimore Ravens, he completed 4-of-16 passes for 47 yards, threw an interception, and absorbed two sacks. The Browns lost 23-16. And while he was on the field, thieves broke into his home, stealing roughly $200,000 in gear, electronics, and memorabilia. Imagine playing through that — the guilt, the rage, the exhaustion. But Sunday? Nothing like it.
“Failure ain’t gonna happen,” Sanders said afterward, calm as a Sunday morning. “I felt very relaxed. Very relaxed. And half of that comes from preparing, studying and knowing I got God on my side.” His father, Deion Sanders, known to fans as “Coach Prime,” sat in the stands — not as a celebrity, but as a father watching his son rewrite history.
Defense Did the Heavy Lifting
The Browns didn’t win because Sanders was perfect. He went 11-of-20 for 209 yards, one TD, one pick. But the defense? That was a masterpiece. Myles Garrett, already leading the NFL with 15 sacks on the season, added three more — including a strip-sack that turned into a safety. Cleveland’s unit totaled 10 sacks, the most in a single game since 2017. The Raiders’ offense? Three points in the first half. Zero in the third. And when they finally got a field goal in the fourth, it was too little, too late.
Running back Quinshon Judkins did the early damage, scoring two rushing touchdowns before halftime. The offensive line, battered all season, held firm long enough for Sanders to find rhythm. Analysts on CBS noted how he adjusted after his first three drives — no more panic throws, no more forcing it. He trusted the play calls. He trusted his teammates.
The QB Carousel Keeps Spinning
This win didn’t solve Cleveland’s quarterback mess — it just made it more complicated. The Browns started the season with 39-year-old Joe Flacco, then turned to third-round pick Dillon Gabriel in Week 5. Gabriel went 1-4 as a starter before his concussion last week. Now, Sanders is 1-0 as a starter. And Deshaun Watson, still recovering from his Achilles tear in 2024, is reportedly progressing toward a return in December.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski, 42, has been hammered for his indecision. Fans are tired of the revolving door. But now? They’re asking: What if Sanders is the answer?
YouTube breakdowns of the game show Sanders’ touchdown pass wasn’t a deep bomb — it was a quick screen to Sampson, with the line sliding left to protect him. One analyst said: “The door is opening for Sanders, but they might still keep Gabriel as the starter.” That’s the thing about hope — it doesn’t always mean the door swings wide open. Sometimes, it just cracks a little.
What This Means for the Rest of the Season
Cleveland’s record improved to 3-8. They now have their first road win of the year — a 1-5 record away from home. The Raiders fell to 2-9, their playoff hopes all but buried. The Browns’ next game? A home matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers on November 30 at FirstEnergy Stadium in Cleveland. If Sanders plays like he did against Las Vegas, that game could be the start of something real.
For the first time since 1995, a Browns quarterback didn’t just survive his debut — he thrived. And maybe, just maybe, that’s the kind of spark this franchise has been waiting for.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Shedeur Sanders improve so much from his Week 11 debut?
After completing just 4-of-16 passes for 47 yards against Baltimore, Sanders spent the week studying film, working with offensive coordinator Brian Daboll, and focusing on rhythm throws rather than forcing deep passes. He also received emotional support from his father, Deion Sanders, and teammates. The result? A 11-of-20, 209-yard performance with better decision-making and improved pocket presence.
Why is this win significant for the Cleveland Browns organization?
The Browns had lost 17 straight games started by rookie or first-time NFL quarterbacks since Eric Zeier’s win in 1995 — a 30-year drought that became a symbol of franchise mismanagement. Sanders’ victory breaks that streak and offers tangible hope for a rebuilding team that has cycled through seven different starting QBs since 2020.
What role did Myles Garrett play in the Browns’ victory?
Myles Garrett recorded three sacks — bringing his season total to 18 — and disrupted Raiders quarterback Aidan O’Connell throughout the game. His pressure forced three turnovers, including a strip-sack recovered by safety Grant Delpit. Garrett’s dominance allowed Sanders to operate without constant pressure, giving Cleveland’s offense crucial breathing room.
Could Shedeur Sanders become the Browns’ long-term starter?
It’s possible. With Deshaun Watson still recovering and Dillon Gabriel in concussion protocol, Sanders has earned the right to compete for the job. While head coach Kevin Stefanski hasn’t named him the starter moving forward, his poise under pressure and improved mechanics suggest he’s more than a temporary fix — he could be the future, especially if he continues to show command of the offense.
How did the Raiders’ offense struggle so badly?
The Raiders’ offensive line couldn’t handle Cleveland’s pass rush, allowing 10 sacks. Quarterback Aidan O’Connell was under pressure on 78% of his dropbacks, per NFL Next Gen Stats. They managed only 219 total yards and converted just 2-of-12 third downs. The absence of star receiver Davante Adams, who missed the game with a hamstring injury, left them without a reliable target.
What’s next for Shedeur Sanders and the Browns?
The Browns face the Pittsburgh Steelers on November 30 at FirstEnergy Stadium, with Sanders expected to start. If he plays with similar composure, he’ll likely retain the job. The team’s front office is also evaluating whether to extend his contract beyond his rookie deal — a move that would signal long-term confidence. For now, Sanders is just taking it one week at a time — and proving he belongs.
