CHARLOTTE, N.C. — We’ve reached the end of the first half in Carolina with the Browns leading the Panthers 17-7.
Here are three observations from the first 30 minutes of the season.
1. Jacoby report
In his debut as the Browns’ starting quarterback, Jacoby Brissett has looked… so-so, going 8-of-18 for 75 yards and a touchdown. Although he has mostly managed the game, he has also missed multiple open receivers downfield and at times held onto the ball too long. What looked like a sure interception was also only called back because of an egregious pass interference penalty in the end zone.
2. What about Baker?
Despite Brissett’s mixed bag, Cleveland’s former signal-caller hasn’t looked much better, with Baker Mayfield displaying many of the same tendencies that caused him to fall out of favor here. There have been several tipped balls, inaccurate throws, various check downs, and questionable footwork. All told, 2018’s No. 1 overall pick is 10-of-19 for 101 yards and a pick, with only a late scoring drive making the numbers look somewhat respectable.
3. Dynamic duo
It’s certainly nice to see Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt together again. The former has a game-high 79 rushing yards, while the latter has scored both of the Browns’ TDs (one through the air and one on the ground). These two will have to be effective if the offense wants to do anything this season, at least for the first 11 games.