Shedeur Sanders Secures Historic Win in First NFL Start vs. Raiders
Rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders made a significant mark in his first career NFL start, leading the Cleveland Browns to a 24-10 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders. The win, which took place at Allegiant Stadium, was not just a crucial road victory for the Browns but also a historic moment for Sanders himself.
Breaking the Browns' Quarterback Drought
Sanders' victory ended a decades-long drought, as he became the first Browns rookie quarterback since 1995 to win his debut start. The achievement was a positive early sign for the young QB, who had previously seen limited action in relief. With his Hall of Fame father, Deion Sanders, in attendance, the moment carried extra weight.
Game Highlights and Stats
While the Cleveland defense dominated the narrative—amassing 10 sacks and controlling the game's tempo—Sanders managed the game effectively within a conservative, run-heavy scheme. However, he showed flashes of the big-play ability that defined his college career:
• Final Stat Line: Sanders finished 11-of-20 passing for 209 yards, tossing#ShedeurSanders one touchdown and one interception.
• First NFL Touchdown: His first career touchdown pass came in the fourth quarter on a short toss to fellow rookie running back Dylan Sampson, who turned the play into a spectacular 66-yard catch-and-run to seal the #DeionSanders #
• Big Plays: Sanders also connected on a beautiful 52-yard deep pass to rookie wide receiver Isaiah Bond, setting up an early rushing touchdown.
The Browns leaned heavily on the run game and a dominant defense led by Myles Garrett, but Sanders' ability to convert key third-downs and deliver explosive plays when needed was enough to secure the important win. His first NFL start proved to be a successful, if calculated, step forward in his professional career.
