Cleveland Browns quarterback Tyrod Taylor had his first crack to prove that he can be the long-term starter for the franchise in Week 1 against the Pittsburgh Steelers that wound up ending in a 21-21 tie.
According to Matthew Florjancic of WKYC 3, head coach Hue Jackson has voiced that he didn't believe that Taylor's outing was productive enough that had plenty of room for improvement moving forward.
“Not good enough,” Jackson said Monday.
“He just missed some throws. He underthrew some balls. He has to do his job better.”
Taylor had his fair share of struggles throwing the ball as he completed just 15 of 30 passes for 197 yards along with a touchdown and an interception. He was also sacked seven times for a total of 47 yards loss, which only added to his woes under center. Taylor did throw his lone touchdown that tied up the game at 21 late in the fourth quarter with a 17-yard connection with wide receiver Josh Gordon.
He was also effective with his legs rushing for 77 yards on eight carries that included a 20-yard touchdown scramble. Taylor put his dual-threat ability on display as it helped him remain effective despite his inaccuracy throwing the ball throughout the contest. Taylor has much to bring to the table that can be extenuated with the talent around him in two Pro Bowl talents at wide receiver in Gordon and Jarvis Landry along with a steady option in the backfield with Carlos Hyde.
This presents a unique chance in Week 2 to build on his case with a tough challenge ahead against the New Orleans Saints, who are coming off a disappointing 48-40 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. This could see the Saints turn in a more focused and intense effort against Cleveland to get on the right track as both teams battle it out for their first wins of the season.