Scott Clark
Dec 10, 2023 - 09:25

David Njokus two TDs Browns Jaguars 14-7 halftime

Joe Flacco leads Cleveland to a 14-7 halftime lead over Jacksonville. Trevor Lawrence struggles against the Browns' defense.

Cleveland Browns are currently leading the Jacksonville Jaguars 14-7 at halftime, thanks to the strong performance of quarterback Joe Flacco. Flacco has completed 17 out of 28 passes for 212 yards, throwing two touchdowns and one interception. Both touchdown passes were caught by tight end David Njoku, with the first being a 34-yard pass to cap the club's opening drive, and the second being a 30-yard catch-and-run score early in the second quarter.

Despite their lead, the Browns have struggled to sustain drives, only converting 1 out of 8 third-down attempts. However, they have managed to accumulate 266 total yards. On the other hand, Jacksonville's quarterback Trevor Lawrence has completed 11 out of 22 passes for 100 yards, with one touchdown and two interceptions. Lawrence, who recently suffered a high-ankle sprain, has not been particularly effective against the Browns' defense.

The Jaguars managed to score their only touchdown of the half after Browns receiver Amari Cooper fumbled deep in Cleveland territory. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence then connected with tight end Evan Engram for a 10-yard touchdown. This was a quick two-play, 12-yard drive for Jacksonville.

Additionally, the Jaguars suffered another setback when offensive lineman Ezra Cleveland sustained a knee injury and is questionable to return. He was playing left tackle, and his replacement, Blake Hance, is the fourth left tackle Jacksonville has played this season. Furthermore, Browns defensive tackle Jordan Elliott has been ruled out with a concussion.

Evan Engram has been a standout player for the Jaguars, with five catches for 55 yards and a touchdown, setting a new single-season franchise record for receptions by a tight end with 78 catches this year.

As the Jaguars prepare to receive the second-half kickoff, the Browns will look to maintain their lead and secure the win.