On December 2, 2024, the Cleveland Browns vs Denver Broncos Match Player Stats in a high-octane Monday Night Football clash at Empower Field at Mile High. The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both teams delivering explosive performances, jaw-dropping plays, and a few costly mistakes. The final score? A 41-32 victory for the Denver Broncos, but the box score tells only part of the story. Let’s dive into the player stats, key moments, and what made this game a must-watch for NFL fans. Whether you’re a die-hard Browns or Broncos supporter or just love football, this breakdown is designed to be easy to read and packed with insights.
Game Overview: A High-Scoring Shootout
The Cleveland Browns (3-9) took on the Denver Broncos (8-5) in a game that showcased offensive firepower but was ultimately decided by defensive plays. The Browns, led by quarterback Jameis Winston, racked up an impressive 552 total yards, while the Broncos answered with 400 yards of their own. Despite Cleveland’s statistical dominance, turnovers proved to be their Achilles’ heel, with three interceptions—two returned for touchdowns—sealing their fate.
This game wasn’t just about numbers; it was about heart, hustle, and a few unforgettable moments. From Jameis Winston’s record-breaking performance to Jerry Jeudy’s revenge game against his former team, let’s break down the player stats and what they mean for both teams.
Cleveland Browns Player Stats: Winston and Jeudy Steal the Show
Jameis Winston’s Historic Night
Jameis Winston had a game for the ages, even if it came with some costly mistakes. The Browns’ quarterback threw for a franchise-record 497 yards, surpassing Josh McCown’s previous record of 457 yards set in 2015. Winston completed 30 of 49 passes (61.2% completion rate) and tossed four touchdowns, showcasing his ability to sling the ball all over the field. His connection with wide receiver Jerry Jeudy was electric, and he also found tight end David Njoku for a pair of scores.
However, Winston’s night wasn’t perfect. He threw three interceptions, two of which were returned for touchdowns by the Broncos’ defense. The first pick-six came courtesy of linebacker Nik Bonitto, who read Winston’s eyes and took it to the house. The second, a game-sealing 44-yard interception return by cornerback Ja’Quan McMillian, came with just 1:48 left on the clock. Winston himself took responsibility post-game, saying, “I’ve got to play better. I’m just praying for the Lord to deliver me from pick-6s”.
Despite the turnovers, Winston’s performance was a reminder of his high-risk, high-reward style. His 497 yards and four touchdowns made him the first NFL player in history to record 450+ passing yards and two pick-sixes in a single game. For Browns fans, it was a bittersweet performance—spectacular, yet heartbreaking.
Jerry Jeudy’s Revenge Game
If there was one player who left it all on the field, it was Browns wide receiver Jerry Jeudy. Facing his former team after being traded to Cleveland in March 2024, Jeudy delivered a career-best performance. He hauled in nine receptions for 235 yards and one touchdown, averaging an incredible 26.1 yards per catch. His 70-yard touchdown catch in the fourth quarter was a highlight, cutting the Broncos’ lead to three points after a two-point conversion.
Jeudy’s 235 receiving yards set an NFL record for the most by a player against his former team, surpassing Terrell Owens’ 213 yards against the 49ers in 2008. He was a clutch target all night, with three receptions of 35 yards or more, including a 44-yard gain on the Browns’ first offensive play. Jeudy’s performance wasn’t just about stats; it was personal. He celebrated by egging on the Denver crowd, raising a hand to his ear after his touchdown, drawing boos from Broncos fans who remembered his trash talk leading up to the game.
Other Notable Browns Performers
- David Njoku (Tight End): Njoku was a reliable target, catching two touchdown passes from Winston. His first score came early in the game, a precise throw from Winston that put the Browns on the board. Njoku’s ability to find open spaces in the Broncos’ defense was crucial in keeping Cleveland competitive.
- Nick Chubb (Running Back): Chubb had a quiet night on the ground, managing just 21 yards on nine carries (2.3 yards per carry). However, he made an impact in the passing game, catching a 5-yard touchdown pass in the fourth quarter to give the Browns a brief 32-31 lead.
- Denzel Ward (Cornerback): On defense, Ward was a standout, playing a role in both of the Browns’ interceptions of Broncos quarterback Bo Nix. He broke up a pass that led to a pick by Greg Newsome II and later secured an interception of his own in the fourth quarter.
- Dustin Hopkins (Kicker): Hopkins had a rough night, missing a 47-yard field goal on the Browns’ opening drive. In a game decided by nine points, those missed points loomed large.
The Browns’ rushing attack struggled, totaling just 77 yards on 23 carries (3.3 yards per attempt). With Winston carrying the load, Cleveland’s offense leaned heavily on the passing game, which kept them in the fight but couldn’t overcome the turnovers.
Denver Broncos Player Stats: Defense and Big Plays Win the Day
Bo Nix’s Steady Hand
Rookie quarterback Bo Nix didn’t match Winston’s gaudy numbers, but he made the plays that mattered. Nix completed 25 of 38 passes for 294 yards, throwing one touchdown and two interceptions. His highlight of the night was a 93-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Marvin Mims Jr., a perfectly placed ball from deep in Denver’s end zone that Mims took to the house. The play shifted momentum and showcased Nix’s ability to make big plays under pressure.
Nix’s two interceptions were costly, with Denzel Ward and Greg Newsome II capitalizing on his mistakes. However, he rallied the Broncos late, leading a drive that set up a 27-yard field goal by Wil Lutz to take a 34-32 lead with 2:57 remaining. Nix’s composure in his first Monday Night Football game earned praise from coach Sean Payton, who called it a “complete team win”.
Marvin Mims Jr. Shines
Wide receiver Marvin Mims Jr. had a breakout moment with his 93-yard touchdown catch, finishing the night with two receptions for 103 yards. His speed and ability to get open deep made him a game-changer, and fans are calling for more targets for the young receiver. Mims’ touchdown was a direct response to Cleveland’s offensive onslaught, keeping Denver in the driver’s seat.
Defensive Heroes: Nik Bonitto and Ja’Quan McMillian
The Broncos’ defense, ranked third in points allowed per game entering Week 13, was torched for 552 yards but came up with game-defining plays. Linebacker Nik Bonitto was a force, recording six quarterback pressures and a pick-six that gave Denver a double-digit lead late in the first half. Bonitto’s ability to read Winston’s pass and take it back for a touchdown was a turning point.
Cornerback Ja’Quan McMillian sealed the game with a 44-yard pick-six with 1:48 left, intercepting a pass intended for Elijah Moore and returning it for a touchdown. The play gave Denver a 41-32 lead and effectively ended Cleveland’s comeback hopes. Denver’s three interceptions for 171 return yards were the difference in a game where yards alone weren’t enough.
Running Game and Special Teams
The Broncos’ rushing attack outshone Cleveland’s, totaling 106 yards on 23 carries (4.6 yards per attempt). Jaleel McLaughlin led the way with 84 yards on 14 carries (6.0 yards per carry), keeping drives alive and controlling the clock. Javonte Williams and Michael Burton each added short touchdown runs in the first half, giving Denver an early edge.
Kicker Wil Lutz was perfect, going 2-for-2 on field goals (including the crucial 27-yarder) and 5-for-5 on extra points. Punter Riley Dixon also played a key role, averaging 51.2 yards on five punts, with three downed inside the 20, helping Denver win the field position battle.
Key Moments That Defined the Game
- Early Fireworks: The game started with a bang, as Winston connected with Jeudy for a 44-yard gain on Cleveland’s first play. The Browns scored first with a touchdown pass to Njoku, but Denver answered with short touchdown runs by Williams and Burton.
- Mims’ 93-Yard TD: Facing a third-and-11 from their own 7-yard line, the Broncos pulled off the play of the game. Nix’s deep ball to Mims went for 93 yards, putting Denver up 28-17 and silencing the Browns’ momentum.
- Winston’s Pick-Sixes: Bonitto’s pick-six late in the first half gave Denver a double-digit lead, and McMillian’s interception return in the final minutes sealed the deal. These defensive scores were the difference in a game where both offenses were clicking.
- Jeudy’s 70-Yard TD: Just 11 seconds after Mims’ touchdown, Winston hit Jeudy for a 70-yard score, followed by a two-point conversion to pull the Browns within three points. It was a statement that Cleveland wasn’t going down without a fight.
- Late-Game Drama: After Chubb’s touchdown gave Cleveland a 32-31 lead, Nix led a drive to set up Lutz’s go-ahead field goal. McMillian’s pick-six on the next drive ensured Denver’s victory.
Team Cleveland Browns vs Denver Broncos Match Player Stats Comparison
Here’s a quick look at the team stats from the game:
| Stat | Cleveland Browns | Denver Broncos |
|---|---|---|
| Total Yards | 552 | 400 |
| Passing Yards | 475 | 294 |
| Rushing Yards | 77 | 106 |
| Turnovers | 3 | 2 |
| First Downs | 28 | 19 |
| Possession Time | 32:10 | 27:50 |
| Penalties | 6 for 45 yards | 4 for 30 yards |
Despite Cleveland’s edge in total yards and first downs, Denver’s opportunistic defense and efficient offense carried the day.
What This Means for Cleveland Browns vs Denver Broncos Match Player Stats Both Teams
Cleveland Browns (3-9)
The Browns’ loss dropped them to 3-9, all but eliminating them from playoff contention. However, there were bright spots. Winston’s 497 yards and Jeudy’s 235 yards show that Cleveland’s passing game has potential. If Winston can cut down on turnovers, he could solidify his case as the starter moving forward, especially with Deshaun Watson’s injury concerns. Jeudy’s emergence as a No. 1 receiver gives the Browns a weapon to build around.
The Browns now head to Pittsburgh to face the Steelers in Week 14, a team they upset 24-19 in Week 12. Can they pull off another AFC North shocker?
Denver Broncos (8-5)
The Broncos improved to 8-5, holding onto the seventh and final AFC playoff spot with a 76% chance of making the postseason. Nix’s growth as a rookie quarterback and the defense’s knack for big plays (three interceptions, two for touchdowns) bode well for their playoff push. However, allowing 552 yards exposed weaknesses in a defense that entered the game ranked third in points allowed.
With a bye week in Week 14, Denver has time to regroup before hosting the Indianapolis Colts in Week 15. A strong finish could secure their first playoff berth since 2015.
Why This Game Matters
The Cleveland Browns vs Denver Broncos Match Player Stats was more than just a Week 13 game; it was a showcase of individual brilliance, defensive opportunism, and the unpredictable nature of the NFL. Jameis Winston and Jerry Jeudy put up historic numbers, but turnovers proved costly. For the Broncos, Bo Nix’s clutch plays and a defense that stepped up when it mattered most kept their playoff hopes alive.
This game also highlighted the importance of turnovers in the NFL. Teams that win the turnover battle win approximately 78% of the time, and Denver’s three interceptions (two for touchdowns) were the ultimate difference. For fans, it was a reminder that stats don’t always tell the full story—sometimes, the scoreboard tells a different tale.
Final Thoughts
The Cleveland Browns vs Denver Broncos Match Player Stats on December 2, 2024, was a classic Monday Night Football shootout. Jameis Winston’s 497 yards and Jerry Jeudy’s 235 yards will go down in Browns history, but Denver’s defense stole the show with two pick-sixes. For football fans of all ages, this game was a thrilling mix of big plays, heartbreak, and redemption.