The Denver Broncos defeated the Cleveland Browns 41-32 on Monday night, thanks to a late-game interception return for a touchdown by Ja’Quan McMillian. McMillian’s 44-yard pick-6 sealed the game and spoiled career-best performances from Browns quarterback Jameis Winston and wide receiver Jerry Jeudy.
Winston’s Record-Breaking Night Marred by Interceptions
Jameis Winston threw for a franchise-record 497 yards and four touchdowns, but his two interceptions—both returned for touchdowns—proved to be the difference in the game. Winston’s first interception came from linebacker Nik Bonitto, who returned it 71 yards for a touchdown. The second came with just under two minutes remaining when McMillian intercepted Winston’s pass and sprinted to the end zone for a game-winning score.
Despite the interceptions, Winston set a new Browns franchise record for passing yards in a single game. He became the first NFL quarterback to throw for 400+ yards, four or more touchdowns, and two pick-6s in a single game.
“I’ve got to play better,” Winston said. “I know I’m better than this. I’m just praying for the Lord to deliver me from pick-sixes. That’s not me.”
Jeudy’s Historic Performance Against Former Team
Cleveland wide receiver Jerry Jeudy had a memorable game against his former team, recording 235 receiving yards on nine catches. His performance set a new NFL record for the most yards by a receiver against his previous team. Jeudy also scored a touchdown, but the Mile High crowd wasn’t kind to him, booing every time he made a catch.
“They only boo you when they know there’s something great in you,” Jeudy commented after the game.
Big Plays and Key Moments Propel Broncos to Victory
While Winston and Jeudy performed spectacular individual performances, the Broncos capitalised on critical moments. Rookie quarterback Bo Nix threw for 294 yards and a 93-yard touchdown pass to Marvin Mims Jr., but the Broncos’ defence made two game-changing plays. Bonitto’s first interception return for a touchdown gave the Broncos a 14-7 lead in the second quarter, and McMillian’s pick-6 sealed the game late.
Broncos kicker Wil Lutz also contributed with a 27-yard field goal to give Denver a 34-32 lead with 2:54 remaining. The Bronco’s defence was able to stop Winston and the Brown’s offence on their final drive, securing the win.
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Broncos’ Playoff Push Continues
The Broncos’ victory improves their record to 8-5, keeping them in the seventh and final playoff spot in the AFC. According to NFL playoff projections, the team now has a 76% chance of making the postseason. After winning the Super Bowl following the 2015 season, Denver hasn’t reached the playoffs.
“It wasn’t perfect, by any means, but we were able to finish,” said Broncos head coach Sean Payton. “Big plays—the game was full of them.”
Injury Updates:
- Broncos: Wide receiver Jamari Thrash left the game with a shoulder injury.
- Browns: Defensive back Denzel Ward (calf) and safety Grant Delpit (head) were injured late in the game.
Game Recap Highlights:
- Winston’s 497 yards: Franchise record for the Browns.
- Jeudy’s 235 yards are the NFL record for most yards by a receiver against his former team.
- McMillian’s pick-6: Game-sealing interception return for a touchdown.
- Nix’s 93-yard touchdown: A deep ball to Marvin Mims Jr. ignited the Broncos’ offence.