The Green Bay Packers secured a 23-10 victory over the Cleveland Browns in their 2024 preseason opener. Jordan Love's quick touchdown and strong performances by backups set the tone for the game, while the Browns struggled without several key players.
The Green Bay Packers kicked off their 2024 preseason with a convincing 23-10 win against the Cleveland Browns at Cleveland Browns Stadium. The game saw Packers' quarterback Jordan Love making a brief but impactful appearance, leading to a swift touchdown. The Packers' defense and backup units maintained the momentum, ensuring a comfortable lead throughout the game. Meanwhile, the Browns were handicapped by the absence of several key players, including top defensive talents and offensive starters.
Jordan Love, fresh off signing a significant contract extension, wasted no time making his mark with a 65-yard touchdown pass to Dontayvion Wicks on his third snap, setting an early tone for the game. Packers' coach Matt LaFleur had planned minimal exposure for starters, aiming for efficient and injury-free participation. This strategy allowed the backups, including quarterback Sean Clifford, to take over early and effectively manage the game, leading to a 17-3 lead by halftime[1][2].
The Cleveland Browns faced a significant challenge with a long list of key players not participating in the game, including defensive stars Myles Garrett and Denzel Ward, as well as offensive talents like Amari Cooper and Deshaun Watson. This absence of top talent was felt throughout the game as the Browns struggled to gain momentum and only managed a late touchdown to slightly narrow the gap to a 23-10 final score[3].
Several Packers players made notable contributions, including rookie safety Evan Williams, who forced a fumble, and Grant DuBose, who caught five passes for 66 yards. The game also saw Packers' rookie running back MarShawn Lloyd suffer a hamstring injury, which could impact his availability moving forward. These performances and incidents will play a crucial role in shaping the team's strategy and roster for the upcoming regular season[4].
The Packers' preseason opener against the Browns showcased both the potential of Green Bay's starting lineup and the depth of their roster. The strategic decision to limit exposure for key starters paid off, allowing the team to evaluate backup players effectively while escaping major injuries, except for Lloyd's setback. As the preseason progresses, the Packers will look to fine-tune their squad, while the Browns will hope for the return of their key players to gauge their full potential.
"To go out there and score in one play and take the ball away in one play on defense. You want them to go out there and compete, execute, have a clean operation and then get them out." - Matt LaFleur