Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel is set to make his first NFL start against the Minnesota Vikings this Sunday in London. This decision comes after the Browns have opted to bench veteran Joe Flacco, who struggled in the season’s opening games.
Browns Make a Change at Quarterback
Head coach Kevin Stefanski announced the change and expressed confidence in Gabriel’s abilities. He noted, “From the second he’s been here, he’s been working very hard. He’s a very intelligent young man.” Stefanski believes this move is crucial for the 1-3 team’s future.
Struggles of Flacco
Joe Flacco’s performance this season has been underwhelming. The Browns rank near the bottom in scoring, averaging just 14 points per game. Flacco holds the lowest passer rating in the league among qualified quarterbacks, with a rating of 60.3 and a completion rate of 58.1%.
- Flacco’s stats: 16 completions on 34 attempts for 184 yards
- Two interceptions and one fumble in his last game against Detroit
Dillon Gabriel’s Background
Dillon Gabriel, selected in the third round of the NFL draft, has shown promise. He completed his college career with 189 total touchdowns, leading the Football Bowl Subdivision. Gabriel’s completion rate was an impressive 72.9%, and he was a Heisman Trophy finalist while at Oregon.
Preseason Performance
In two preseason games, Gabriel showcased his potential by completing 25 of 37 passes for 272 yards, with one touchdown and one interception. He led the offense effectively, scoring on five of seven drives during the preseason.
Looking Ahead: Gabriel’s Challenge
As Gabriel prepares for the Vikings, he acknowledges the importance of being prepared. He stated, “Super glad I was able to get those turns and want to continue to build on that.” The Vikings boast a defense known for its high blitz rate, making Gabriel’s ability to adapt crucial.
Stefanski’s Confidence
Coach Stefanski also indicated that Sheduer Sanders will remain the third-string quarterback, with Flacco backing up Gabriel. He believes that the rookie’s experience will benefit the team moving forward.
Fans are eager to see how Gabriel performs as he steps into the starting role. The match will be pivotal for both his career and the Browns’ season.
