Brandon Weedon took a step closer to securing his spot as the Browns’ starting quarterback in his sophomore season with a 27-19 victory and a strong performance against the Rams.
Starting off strong after a shaky rookie season, Weedon helped Cleveland to an early 17-0 lead going 10 for 13 with 112 yards and a second quarter touchdown to running back Dion Lewis.
Second-year wide receiver Travis Benjamin then returned a punt 91 yards and the Browns withstood the Rams comeback attempt from there.
Head coach Rob Chudzinzki had this to say about Weedon’s performance:
"”I thought he did a good job,” Chudzinski said of Weeden. ”He was efficient and led us to some drives. Ultimately, doing that is what his job is all about.”"
Rams quarterback Sam Bradford passed for 102 yards and a touchdown in limited minutes, while back up Kellen Clemens struggled with a 46.2% completion rating for 116 yards, a touchdown and two interceptions. Austin Davis added 96 yards, going 9 of 16 for the Rams.
St. Louis receivers Chris Givens and Raymond Radway led the way with 82 and 78 yards respectively and a touchdown each.
Browns’ back up Brian Hoyer was efficient with 100 yards and a touchdown on 10 of 14 passing. Jason Campbell completed six of his seven attempts but for a measly 37 yards.
Neither team had a standout day on the ground. Daryl Richardson led the Rams with 24 yards while Brandon Jackson managed 32 yards to lead the Browns.
A bright spot for the St. Louis was kicker Greg Zuerlein who made field goals from 54 and 55 yards out.
The Rams play Green Bay next while Cleveland faces Detroit as preseason continues.