The Cleveland Browns kicked off their season opener on Saturday, and all eyes were locked on that wild quarterback battle. Second-year player Shedeur Sanders and veteran Deshaun Watson are going at it, big time, for the starting gig. Sanders definitely started out hot, connecting with Luke Floriea for a sweet 35-yard gain early on. But then, man, things went sideways. Sanders tossed an interception late in the game, and you know that’s never what you want to see when you’re fighting for a spot.
What Went Down on the Field
This QB competition is as intense as it gets, and both guys got some real game time. While Sanders had that solid bomb to Floriea, that pick at the end of the game was a serious head-scratcher. It’s the kind of play that can stick with you, especially when you’re trying to prove you’re the guy. Everyone watching had to be wondering what in the world happened on that play.
The “Sandy Ball” Defense
Turns out, Sanders had an explanation for reporters after the game about his debut turnover. He thinks both his interception and another pick by Gabriel in the game happened because the ball itself was “sandy.” Seriously. He even talked it over with Watson on the sideline. Sanders said, “That was just a moment just to laugh at between us, honestly, because it was the right decision.” He continued, “I talked to him when he got to the sideline. I said, ‘Hey, what happened?’ He’s like, ‘Bro, the ball is sandy.’” Sanders just added, “I said, ‘Bruh, I know the ball’s sandy.’” They apparently shared a good laugh about it. He stressed that “the decision-making and being able to execute what’s out there was the best thing,” implying the sandy ball was the real issue, not his read.
So yeah, a sandy ball might have been the real culprit for the Browns’ slip-ups. You’ve gotta hope for some better, less sandy, balls going forward. This quarterback race is just getting started, and every single throw, sandy or not, is gonna count.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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