Dwayne Haskins had arguably his worst start of his young NFL career Sunday against the Cleveland Browns in Washington’s 34-20 loss. The second-year quarterback threw three interceptions leading to three touchdowns by the Browns.
Despite the rough day, Washington Football Team head coach Ron Rivera is sticking with Haskins as his quarterback.
Rivera revealed he spoke to Haskins after the game, telling the young QB, “I’m behind you.”
Unlike the first two weeks, Washington’s offense got off to a fast start when Haskins found wide receiver Dontrelle Inman in the first quarter for the first of two touchdown connections in the game.
Washington led 7-3 when Haskins threw an interception to Browns safety Karl Joseph. Cleveland’s offense responded with a three-play 28-yard drive touchdown to take a 10-7 lead. Haskins threw his second interception to Malcolm Smith that led to a second three-play touchdown-ending drive to extend the Browns’ lead to 17-7.
Haskins and Washington rallied to take a third quarter lead at 20-17. However, Washington was unable to maintain the lead. Trailing 24-20 in the fourth quarter, Haskins’ pick No. 3 led to a third three-play drive touchdown by the Browns to seal the game.
Haskins also lost a fumble on a strip sack by Browns defensive end Myles Garrett.
In all, Haskins completed 21-of-37 passes for 224 yards, two touchdowns and three interceptions. He was also sacked three times.
The loss dropped Washington to 1-2 on the season. Haskins’ struggles Sunday showed lack of improvement and signs of regression. Still, Rivera is not ready to pull the plug on him.
