The Cleveland Browns have clinched their second postseason appearance in four seasons after defeating the New York Jets in their 2023 Week 16 Thursday Night Football showdown. They established a 34-17 halftime lead and never looked back to register their 11th win this season.

The Browns have been impressive late in the season, winning their last four games. However, their excellence deserves praise, given the players they’ve lost to injuries this season. There’s Pro Bowl running back Nick Chubb, who suffered a season-ending knee injury in Week 2.

With the workhorse of Cleveland’s running game out of action, Jerome Ford and Kareem Hunt have held the fort for the Browns. Even the achievements of the backfield tandem must be magnified, given that offensive linemen Jack Conklin, Jedrick Wills, and Dawand Jones are inactive due to injuries.

They are playing defense without Grant Delpit, Rodney McLeod, Maurice Hurst, Jacob Phillips, and Ogbo Okoronkwo. Despite those absences, they lead the league in total yards (266.6) and passing yards allowed (165.9) per game. The Browns are also tenth in rushing yards (100.6) and 12th in points (20.7) allowed per game.

Finally, Deshaun Watson begged off for the season after a shoulder injury, allowing P.J. Walker and Dorian Thompson-Robinson to lead the Browns. However, Joe Flacco helped turn the squad into a playoff contender.

Flacco had 19 completions for 309 yards, three touchdowns, and an interception. It’s his fourth consecutive 300-yard game since he became Cleveland’s starter, leading the squad to victory in all games.

While the Browns have clinched their playoff spot, they still have a shot at the AFC’s top seed. However, they need help from the Baltimore Ravens and the Miami Dolphins for it to happen.

The Cleveland Browns will be a formidable postseason opponent regardless of their placing. They’ve found ways to win and seem to be playing their best football after losing several key players.

-Lance Fernandez