The Cleveland Browns and Jacksonville Jaguars faced off in their preseason opener, marking the beginning of the 2021 NFL season anticipation. Browns fans were eager to see their team after their first playoff win in decades, and this preseason game offered a glimpse into the team’s potential. While the starters mostly watched from the sidelines, the backups delivered an exciting victory. This article recaps the game’s key moments and discusses where fans could have watched the Browns vs. Jaguars preseason matchup and how to catch future games.
Cleveland Browns training camp
Image alt text: Cleveland Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield participating in a training camp practice session, focusing on upcoming games.
Browns Secure Preseason Victory Over Jaguars
In a game where most starters were rested, the Cleveland Browns’ backup quarterbacks, Case Keenum and Kyle Lauletta, showcased their skills, leading the team to a 23-13 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars. Lauletta threw two touchdown passes, connecting with Davion Davis and Ryan Switzer. However, the standout performer was rookie linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah. After Mack Wilson’s injury, Owusu-Koramoah dominated, racking up eight tackles, including a sack, and demonstrating impressive sideline-to-sideline speed.
Donovan Peoples-Jones and rookie Demetric Felton further solidified their strong training camp performances, contributing significantly in the preseason opener.
Jaguars Offense Struggles in Urban Meyer’s Debut
The Jacksonville Jaguars, under new head coach Urban Meyer, struggled offensively for the majority of the game. They were held scoreless for the first three quarters, a rare situation for Meyer, known for his offensive prowess in his college coaching career. The Jaguars finally scored in the fourth quarter, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Browns’ lead.
Tim Tebow’s NFL Return as Tight End
A notable moment for the Jaguars was the appearance of Tim Tebow. The former Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback, reunited with his college coach Urban Meyer, made his NFL debut as a tight end late in the third quarter. This marked Tebow’s return to the NFL after transitioning from quarterback to tight end, generating significant interest and discussion among fans.
Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah: Defensive Highlight for the Browns
Rookie linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah made a significant impact on the Browns’ defense. He recorded his first sack in the first half and continued to be a disruptive force throughout the game. A key play in the third quarter saw him swiftly move to the sideline to stop Jaguars receiver Collin Johnson, forcing a field goal attempt which the Jaguars missed. Owusu-Koramoah’s performance was a major positive takeaway for the Browns defense.
Davion Davis’s Spectacular Touchdown Catch
Before halftime, Browns quarterback Kyle Lauletta connected with wide receiver Davion Davis for a remarkable 27-yard touchdown. With seconds remaining in the second quarter, Lauletta extended the play and launched a long pass into the end zone, where Davis made an impressive leaping catch, extending the Browns’ lead to 13-0 at halftime. This play was a highlight reel moment for Davis and the Browns offense.
Cody Parkey and Chase McLaughlin Solid Kicking Performances
The Browns’ kicking competition saw both Cody Parkey and Chase McLaughlin successfully convert field goals. Parkey made a 34-yard field goal in the second quarter, while McLaughlin kicked a 37-yarder in the first drive of the game. Both kickers demonstrated accuracy and consistency, adding to the Browns’ scoring and making a case for the starting kicker role.
Browns Defense Shows Strength Early
The Browns defense made an early statement in the second quarter. Rookie cornerback Greg Newsome II made a strong tackle, and a combined effort from Joe Jackson, Malcom Smith, and Jordan Elliott stopped the Jaguars on fourth down. This defensive stand showcased the Browns’ improved defensive unit, a key area of focus for the team entering the 2021 season.
Trevor Lawrence’s NFL Debut
For the Jaguars, the game marked the NFL debut of rookie quarterback Trevor Lawrence, the top overall pick in the draft. His first NFL play was a fumble due to a sack by Sheldon Day, but Lawrence quickly recovered and led the Jaguars to a first down on the drive. Despite the initial setback, Lawrence gained valuable experience in his first NFL game.
Preseason Game Broadcast and How to Watch NFL Games
For fans looking to watch the Cleveland Browns vs Jacksonville Jaguars preseason game live, local channels are often the primary broadcasters. In Cleveland, News 5 was the телеканал that televised this particular game, with a pregame show leading up to the 7 PM EST kickoff. Joe Thomas, former Browns All-Pro left tackle, joined Tom McCarthy in the broadcast booth for the Browns’ first two preseason games.
Nationally televised preseason games, like the Browns’ third preseason game against Atlanta on NBC, offer broader viewing options. For those wondering Where To Watch Cleveland Browns Vs Jacksonville Jaguars or any NFL preseason or regular season game in general, here are typical options:
- Local TV Channels: Check local listings for channels like News 5 in Cleveland that broadcast Browns preseason games.
- NFL Network: NFL Network often airs select preseason games and provides extensive coverage of the NFL season.
- Streaming Services: Services like NFL Game Pass (for replays), and potentially streaming platforms that carry local channels or NFL Network, can be options. Check listings closer to game time as broadcast deals can vary.
- Team Websites and Apps: Sometimes team websites or official NFL apps provide streaming options, especially for preseason games.
Note: Preseason game broadcast details can change, so always verify local listings and team announcements for the most accurate information on where to watch Cleveland Browns vs Jacksonville Jaguars or any specific NFL matchup.
Browns Preseason Schedule and Regular Season Kickoff
The Browns played three preseason games in 2021:
- Saturday, Aug. 14, at Jacksonville, 7 p.m. (EST)
- Sunday, Aug. 22, vs. N.Y. Giants, 1 p.m. (EST)
- Sunday, Aug. 29, at Atlanta, 8 p.m. (EST)
The Cleveland Browns regular season began on Sunday, September 12th, against the Kansas City Chiefs. This highly anticipated game was broadcast nationally on CBS, featuring commentators Jim Nantz and Tony Romo.
Key Browns Storylines Heading into the 2021 Season
Beyond the preseason game, several key storylines surrounded the Browns as they entered the 2021 season:
- Nick Chubb’s Contract Extension: Star running back Nick Chubb secured a contract extension, ensuring his continued presence with the Browns.
- Baker Mayfield’s Contract Situation: Discussions around a contract extension for quarterback Baker Mayfield were a significant topic, especially following Josh Allen’s extension with the Bills.
- Odell Beckham Jr.’s Return: Wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. was working to return from a knee injury, with anticipation building for his comeback.
- Donovan Peoples-Jones’s Emergence: Donovan Peoples-Jones continued to impress, building on his positive performances from the previous season.
- Cornerback Competition: The cornerback position opposite Denzel Ward was a key battle in training camp, with Greg Newsome II and Greedy Williams vying for the role.
- Jadeveon Clowney’s Impact: The addition of Jadeveon Clowney was expected to boost the Browns’ pass rush, provided he remained healthy.
This preseason game against the Jaguars provided an initial look at the Browns as they prepared for a season filled with high expectations. For fans wanting to follow the Browns, understanding where to watch Cleveland Browns vs Jacksonville Jaguars games and future matchups is essential to staying connected to the team throughout the NFL season.
