Game in review
Offense: The Browns went three-and-out during their only possession of overtime. They took a 20-17 lead with 1:07 left in regulation when quarterback Brandon Weeden and tight end Benjamin Watson connected for a 17-yard touchdown, but the offense proved to be stagnant the rest of the second half. In the end, there were just too many missed opportunities. Thumbs down.
Defense: Of the Browns’ 12 penalties, 10 were called on the defense, including seven on the secondary. Although the Browns compiled a season-high seven sacks, the defense couldn’t fully compensate for the absence of its best cornerback, Joe Haden, who was out with an injured oblique muscle. The Cowboys scored 17 points in the fourth quarter. Thumbs down.
Special teams: Phil Dawson made field goals of 51 and 37 yards, rookie linebacker James-Michael Johnson recovered a surprise onside kick in the third quarter and Josh Cribbs returned a punt 21 yards to set up Watson’s 17-yard touchdown reception late in the fourth quarter. But the Browns also had two penalties on special teams and allowed Dwayne Harris to return a punt 20 yards to the Browns’ 48-yard line in overtime. Seven plays later, Dan Bailey made the game-winning, 38-yard field goal. Thumbs down.
Coaching: The Browns seized a 13-0 halftime lead, but they didn’t push the pedal to the metal. The offense sputtered enough for the Cowboys to come back. Weeden and Co. rallied, but ultimately did nothing with their lone chance in overtime. Thumbs down.
