Joe Flacco’s unprecedented Cleveland comeback demands savoring now because we may never see it again — Jimmy Watkins
Most of Cleveland’s sports stories end in tragedy or with a punchline. But Joe Flacco’s resurgence alongside coach Kevin Stefanski, wide receiver Amari Cooper and tight end David Njoku demands a re-wiring of the city’s football complex.
AP
According to the record books, only legends produce like Flacco has this season at his age. Among quarterbacks 38 or older, only Tom Brady, Peyton Manning, Brett Favre and Warren Moon had thrown for 1,300 yards and 10 touchdowns over four games before Flacco. All four are certain Hall of Famers (which Flacco isn’t). And none of them joined their rosters midseason (which Flacco did).
But Cleveland’s quarterback keeps bucking history. Flacco keeps finding Amari Cooper, who broke the Browns’ franchise receiving record on Sunday, behind the opposing team’s secondary. He keeps threading needles to David Njoku through crowded red zone passing windows.
And the Browns keep winning without a functioning run game, or the league’s highest-paid quarterback, or any of their starting offensive tackles, thanks in large part to a quarterback they never knew they needed.
The Browns can still technically win the AFC North or earn a first-round bye. And they could at least win a playoff game if their offense keeps performing. Can Flacco keep it up? Logical question. But as Cleveland (and its quarterback) has proven the last month, logic has no place in Flacco’s dramatic comeback story.
It makes no sense that a 16th-year NFL veteran can splice 51-yard touchdowns between three defenders. Nor does it pass muster that Cleveland’s fourth starting quarterback this season shouldn’t be unlocking the best versions of Cooper and Njoku.
And if logic ruled over Cleveland Browns Stadium, no Baltimore Ravens legend could open this fan base’s hardened hearts.
So as Cleveland prepares a celebration this week, savor Flacco’s role in the party planning. Be thankful that the Browns saved him from retirement.
And before worrying about postseason matchups, recognize this playoff push for the unique (if nonsensical) experience it is.
