Browns QB Shedeur Sanders wins first start against Raiders, ending 17-game rookie streak

Shedeur Sanders made a triumphant NFL debut as the starting quarterback for the Cleveland Browns, leading his team to a 24-10 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders.

Why it matters: This win not only marks a pivotal moment in Sanders' career but also breaks significant streaks for the Browns, showcasing the potential shift in momentum for a franchise that has struggled historically with quarterback play.

• With this victory, Sanders became the first Browns quarterback to win his first career start since Eric Zeier in 1995.
• The win ended a 17-game losing streak for the Browns when starting a rookie quarterback, the longest such streak in the NFL since 1950.
• Additionally, the Browns snapped a 13-game road losing streak, their second longest in franchise history.

What’s new: Sanders exhibited poise and skill in his first game under center, demonstrating both promise and areas for improvement.

• He completed 11 of 20 passes for 209 yards, including a standout 52-yard completion to wide receiver Isaiah Bond, which was the longest pass play of the season for the Browns at that point.
• His first touchdown came on a screen pass to running back Dylan Sampson, who turned it into a remarkable 66-yard score.

By the numbers: The statistical outcomes of Sanders’ performance highlight both effectiveness and room for growth.

• His completion percentage stood at 55%, a respectable figure for a first-time starter, yet he also threw one interception, indicating areas needing refinement.
• Myles Garrett, a defensive cornerstone for the Browns, recorded three sacks during the game, underscoring the team's ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks effectively.

Between the lines: Sanders' connection to his father, Pro Football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, adds an intriguing layer to his story, but he is determined to forge his own path.

• Following the game, Sanders emphasized the importance of performance over pedigree: "Everybody starts at different places... but it's no excuse. You got to go out there and perform."
• Head coach Kevin Stefanski praised Sanders' capabilities while noting that development remains key: "There's a lot that he's doing well, and there's a lot that he's working on."

What to watch: As Sanders continues to grow within Cleveland's offensive scheme, fans will be keenly observing how he develops alongside a talented roster, including emerging stars like Quinshon Judkins and established players like Myles Garrett.

• The Browns’ coaching staff will likely focus on enhancing Sanders’ decision-making and deep-ball accuracy moving forward.

The bottom line: Shedeur Sanders’ debut signals hope for a franchise looking to redefine its quarterback legacy while showcasing the potential for individual growth amid broader team challenges. The Browns may have found their spark after years of tumultuous quarterback play, and Sanders appears ready to lead them into the future.