The Cleveland Browns vs Denver Broncos match player stats tell the story of one of the most thrilling and chaotic NFL games in recent memory. Played on December 2, 2024, this contest ended in a 41–32 victory for the Broncos, but the game was far more than just the final score. Records were broken, quarterbacks battled under pressure, and defensive plays changed the entire direction of the match. This blog post will give you a deep dive into the most important numbers, player-by-player breakdowns, and overall team performances. Whether you’re a fan, a fantasy manager, or just love NFL stats, this article will cover all the angles in a clear and informative way.
Table of Contents
Game Overview & Final Score – Broncos 41, Browns 32
In a Monday Night Football showdown, the Denver Broncos edged past the Cleveland Browns with a 41–32 win. The game was filled with offensive firepower, defensive heroics, and emotional highs and lows for both teams. The Browns’ quarterback Jameis Winston threw for 497 yards, setting a new franchise record, but also threw three costly interceptions—two of which were returned for touchdowns. These pick-sixes turned the tide in favor of Denver, despite their own struggles on offense.
The Broncos’ victory was powered not just by their offense, but by explosive plays on defense and special teams. Cornerback Ja’Quan McMillian and linebacker Nik Bonitto both scored on interception returns, proving that defense still wins games. The Browns offense moved the ball well but failed to protect it, which ultimately led to their downfall. The outcome reinforced the importance of turnovers in high-stakes games.
Team-Level Stats Comparison – Browns vs Broncos
To better understand how each team performed across all aspects, here is a comprehensive statistical comparison:
Total Yards and Plays
| Metric | Browns | Broncos |
|---|---|---|
| Total Plays | 84 | 61 |
| Total Yards | 552 | 400 |
| Yards Per Play | 6.6 | 6.6 |
| Time of Possession | 33:15 | 26:45 |
| Turnovers | 3 | 2 |
While the Browns outgained the Broncos in total yards and controlled time of possession, the three turnovers they committed—including two defensive touchdowns—undid their statistical advantages.
Passing and Rushing
| Category | Browns | Broncos |
|---|---|---|
| Passing Yards | 475 | 294 |
| Completion Rate | 58.6% | 51.4% |
| Rushing Yards | 77 | 106 |
| Yards Per Carry | 3.3 | 4.1 |
Denver’s ground game was more efficient, while the Browns relied heavily on Winston’s arm. However, too much passing without ball security cost them points.
Third Down & Red Zone Efficiency
| Situation | Browns | Broncos |
|---|---|---|
| 3rd Down Conversion | 7 of 15 | 6 of 13 |
| Red Zone TD % | 2 of 4 (50%) | 3 of 3 (100%) |
The Broncos were perfect in the red zone, capitalizing on every opportunity, while the Browns settled for field goals on some drives that should have been touchdowns.
Cleveland Browns Match Player Stats – Record Numbers and Missed Chances
Despite the loss, the Cleveland Browns delivered one of their most statistically explosive offensive performances of the season. However, their lack of ball control and defensive breakdowns proved costly.
Jameis Winston (QB) – A Night of Extremes
Jameis Winston had a night to remember and forget at the same time. He completed 34 of 58 passes for a franchise-record 497 yards and 4 touchdowns. That kind of yardage has only been achieved by a handful of quarterbacks in NFL history. However, he also threw 3 interceptions, two of which were returned for touchdowns. Those turnovers were the difference between a win and a loss. Winston showed poise and arm strength but lacked the decision-making needed in key moments.
Jerry Jeudy (WR) – Dominant Against Former Team
In a storybook twist, former Bronco Jerry Jeudy dominated against his old squad. He finished with 9 receptions for 235 yards and 1 touchdown, including a 70-yard explosive play that reminded fans of his speed and route-running precision. According to NFL records, this was one of the most productive games ever by a wide receiver facing his former team.
David Njoku (TE) – Reliable in the Red Zone
Tight end David Njoku played a major role in the red zone, catching 9 passes for 52 yards and 2 touchdowns. He was Winston’s most trusted target inside the 20-yard line. His physical style of play made him difficult to cover, especially in short-yardage situations.
Nick Chubb (RB) – Limited but Impactful
Running back Nick Chubb had limited carries due to the Browns’ pass-heavy approach, but still managed to score a touchdown via the air. He added 2 catches for 24 yards and that one receiving score. On the ground, he ran for just 41 yards but helped keep the Broncos’ defense honest.
Browns Defense – Inconsistent Pressure and Coverage
The Browns’ defense had difficulty containing Denver’s explosive plays. While they recorded 2 sacks and a forced fumble, the coverage broke down on deep balls, especially on the 93-yard touchdown by Marvin Mims. Cornerback Denzel Ward had several key pass breakups but was also targeted on Denver’s biggest gains.
Denver Broncos Match Player Stats – Opportunistic and Explosive
The Denver Broncos played a smart, turnover-focused game. While their offensive yardage was limited compared to Cleveland’s, their defense and special teams came through at just the right moments.
Bo Nix (QB) – Quiet but Effective
Rookie quarterback Bo Nix didn’t have flashy numbers, but he managed the game well. He completed 18 of 35 passes for 294 yards, 1 touchdown, and 2 interceptions. His decision-making was hit or miss, but he capitalized on big play opportunities, including a 93-yard touchdown pass that flipped the momentum.
Marvin Mims Jr. & Courtland Sutton (WRs)
- Marvin Mims Jr. had only 3 receptions, but they went for 105 yards including a stunning 93-yard touchdown in the third quarter.
- Courtland Sutton hauled in 6 catches for 102 yards, continuing his consistent role as the Broncos’ top possession receiver.
Their ability to gain yards after catch and win contested catches played a big part in stretching the Browns’ defense.
Broncos Rushing Attack – Balanced and Timely
Running backs Javonte Williams and Michael Burton added crucial short-yardage touchdowns. The Broncos had 106 rushing yards as a team and consistently picked up tough yards on second and third down, helping them control the clock during critical stretches.
Defensive Heroes – Bonitto and McMillian
Two players changed the entire game defensively:
- Nik Bonitto, a linebacker, returned an interception 71 yards for a touchdown, giving Denver a second-half lead.
- Ja’Quan McMillian, a young cornerback, sealed the game with a 44-yard pick-six in the final quarter.
Their awareness and execution turned a close game into a Broncos victory.
Key Player Battles & Matchups – Game Within the Game
Quarterbacks – Jameis Winston vs Bo Nix
Statistically, Winston dominated with almost 200 more passing yards, but Nix made fewer critical mistakes. The turnovers made by Winston directly led to 14 Broncos points. In terms of efficiency, Nix had the advantage, even if his total stats were less impressive.
Wide Receiver vs Secondary – Jeudy vs Broncos DBs
Jerry Jeudy clearly won his matchup against his former teammates. The Broncos’ secondary struggled to contain him, especially on deep routes and third-down conversions. His success exposed Denver’s zone coverage and created mismatches throughout the night.
Browns D-Line vs Broncos Protection
While Cleveland’s pass rush had moments of success with 2 sacks, the Broncos offensive line mostly held up well. Bo Nix was able to avoid pressure on key third-down plays and delivered accurate deep throws when he had time.
Fantasy Football Takeaways – Who Helped and Who Hurt
For fantasy football managers, this game had massive implications:
Big Winners:
- Jameis Winston: Despite turnovers, nearly 500 passing yards and 4 TDs made him a top fantasy scorer.
- Jerry Jeudy: Over 30 fantasy points in most PPR formats.
- Marvin Mims Jr.: One big play accounted for most of his points, but it made a difference in deep leagues.
- Courtland Sutton: Over 100 yards, solid WR2 performance.
Busts:
- Nick Chubb (rushing): Not enough volume to be useful unless you had him in a flex spot.
- Bo Nix: Only valuable in 2-QB leagues due to limited stats.
- Broncos Defense: Fantasy points saved only by two pick-sixes.
Managers should consider Jeudy and Winston high-upside picks moving forward if they continue starting.
Trends & Historical Context – What This Game Tells Us
Historically (Cleveland Browns vs Denver Broncos Match Player Stats), the Browns have struggled against the Broncos, and this game followed the same pattern. Despite outgaining them in total yards, the Browns’ lack of execution in key moments mirrors past defeats. The Broncos, now sitting at 10–7, are playoff contenders with a defense built for big plays. For the Browns, the 3–14 record tells a story of a team with talent but no consistency.
This game was also a reminder that yards do not equal wins. Turnovers, red zone efficiency, and defensive touchdowns matter more in the NFL than total offense.
What This Means Moving Forward – Implications for Both Teams
For the Browns, the performance of Jameis Winston gives them hope for the future, but the turnovers must be addressed. Jeudy looks like a future WR1, and Njoku’s red zone presence adds flexibility to their playbook. However, they need better ball security and defensive stability.
For the Broncos, this game boosts their playoff credibility. Winning a game where your QB underperforms statistically shows depth and resilience. Their defense, especially playmakers like McMillian and Bonitto, will be crucial if they face top AFC offenses in the postseason.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who had the most receiving yards in the Browns vs Broncos game?
Jerry Jeudy led all players with 235 receiving yards, including a 70-yard catch against his former team.
2. How many touchdowns did Jameis Winston throw?
Winston threw 4 touchdowns and 3 interceptions while setting a Browns franchise record with 497 passing yards.
3. What defensive plays turned the game?
Nik Bonitto and Ja’Quan McMillian returned interceptions for touchdowns. These two pick-sixes helped the Broncos win.
4. Did the Broncos win despite gaining fewer yards?
Yes. The Browns had more total yards, but Denver capitalized on turnovers and red zone chances to win 41–32.
5. Is Jerry Jeudy now the Browns’ top receiver?
Based on this game, Jeudy looked like a top target. His chemistry with Winston could make him the WR1 moving forward.
Read More: detroit tigers vs milwaukee brewers match player stats
