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Joe Flacco once again proved that experience and composure under pressure can make all the difference in the NFL. The former Cleveland Browns quarterback delivered a masterful performance for the Cincinnati Bengals on Thursday night, leading them to a thrilling 33-31 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers. While Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski didn’t tune in to watch, several within the Cleveland locker room took notice of Flacco’s vintage display.
Flacco’s Redemption: A stellar performance under the lights
Flacco, who began the season as the Browns’ starting quarterback, was traded to the Bengals just a week after being benched in favor of rookie Dillon Gabriel. On Thursday night, however, he reminded everyone why his name still commands respect across the league.
The veteran quarterback threw for an impressive 327 yards and three touchdowns, orchestrating a game-winning drive that sealed the Bengals’ dramatic victory. It was a performance reminiscent of his Super Bowl MVP days—precise, composed, and utterly clutch.
Kevin Stefanski reacts
While fans and analysts raved about Joe Flacco’s night, Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski admitted that he didn’t watch the AFC North clash.
“I did not, no. I’m definitely asleep on Thursday nights,” Stefanski said when asked about Flacco’s outing. “You’re always rooting for all of your friends around the league, and that really happens on a lot of teams. But, really mostly focused on our team and what we got in front of us.”
Stefanski’s response reflected professionalism—balancing admiration for a former player while keeping his focus firmly on Cleveland’s current challenges.
Myles Garrett praises Flacco’s execution
One player who did watch the game was Browns defensive powerhouse Myles Garrett, who had nothing but respect for his former teammate’s performance.
“I think Joe looked like Joe. I mean, I’m happy that he went out there and got a win,” Garrett said. “He played how we know he can, and so he made plays when they needed him to. Got the ball out quick, put on the money down the field, looked great.”
Garrett highlighted how Joe Flacco’s ability to adapt to different systems and personnel continues to define his longevity in the league.
“I mean, all offenses are a little bit different, whether it’s the players that they have or the schemes that they run,” he noted. “So, you know, you got to make it work with the guys that you have and figure it out from there.”
Garrett reflects on Browns’ game plan
In contrast to Flacco’s success, Garrett expressed mild frustration with the Browns’ own offensive strategy in their recent loss to the Steelers. He felt that the team moved away from its strength—an explosive ground game led by Quinshon Judkins and Dylan Sampson.
“I would have liked to see us stick to the run a little bit, especially with a dynamic playmaker like Quinshon, hell, even Dylan,” Garrett admitted. “Both of them getting the ball, both of them have different styles, but effective runners in their own right. So, would like to see it, but they saw differently.”
While Joe Flacco’s departure from Cleveland marked a new chapter for both sides, his recent performance has reignited conversations about his veteran influence and leadership.
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