Cleveland Browns quarterback Jameis Winston had a mixed performance in the team’s 41-32 loss to the Denver Broncos on Monday night. Winston threw for a career-high and franchise-record 497 yards, with four touchdowns, but also threw three interceptions, including two pick-sixes.
Despite the setback, Winston remained optimistic, saying in a post-game interview, “In times like this, it’s the opportunity to continue to grow for the lord, even through the toughest circumstances. I know I’m better than this, I know, like I’m just praying for the lord to deliver me from pick-sixes. Like that’s just not me. Like phenomenal game, offense did some great things, but I messed it up.”
Winston’s first pick-six came with under two minutes left in the second quarter, with the Browns trailing 14-10. He tried to check down to tight end Jordan Akins, but linebacker Nik Bonitto jumped in front of the pass and intercepted it, returning it for a 71-yard score. Winston responded by leading the Browns back down the field and connecting with tight end David Njoku for a 4-yard touchdown pass to cut the Broncos’ lead to 21-17.
The second pick-six came with under two minutes left in the fourth quarter, as the Browns were trying to mount a comeback. Winston targeted wide receiver Elijah Moore, but the pass was undercut by cornerback Ja’Quan McMillan, who fell and then got back up to score the touchdown.
Winston’s 497 yards passing marked the fifth game in his career where he has had over 400 yards in a game passing. He is now 2-3 as the Browns’ starter since taking over for the injured Deshaun Watson, with a 61.3% completion rate, 1,763 yards, 11 touchdowns, and seven interceptions.
The Browns fell to 3-9 with the loss and will face the Pittsburgh Steelers next, with Winston hoping for a better outcome.