NFL Desperation Bowl: Shedeur Sanders Makes First NFL Start for Struggling Browns vs. Raiders

The Cleveland Browns host the Las Vegas Raiders this Sunday. Both teams have dismal 2-8 records. The game is a critical battle for survival in the playoff race. Rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders will make his first career NFL start for Cleveland.

This marks a pivotal moment for the beleaguered Browns franchise. According to CBS Sports, Sanders becomes the 39th different starting quarterback for the team since 1999. His debut comes against a Raiders team favored by 3.5 points despite being on the road.

Rookie QB Sanders Steps Into the Fire Against Raiders’ Defense

Shedeur Sanders was a fifth-round draft pick in 2025. He gets the nod due to starter Dillon Gabriel being in concussion protocol. The rookie faces a formidable challenge right away. He must lead a Browns offense averaging a meager 16.2 points per game.

The Raiders’ defense, led by star pass rusher Maxx Crosby, will test the rookie’s composure. Protecting Sanders will be Cleveland’s top priority. Any mistakes could be costly in what analysts expect to be a low-scoring affair.

Fox Sports notes the over/under point total is just 36.5. This highlights the offensive struggles defining both teams’ seasons. Sanders must find a way to generate points against a solid Vegas unit.

Myles Garrett’s Dominance Presents Major Problem for Vegas

While the Browns’ offense sputters, their defense excels. Cleveland boasts the NFL’s top-ranked pass defense. The unit is anchored by defensive end Myles Garrett, the league’s most fearsome pass rusher.

Garrett leads the NFL with 15 sacks through ten games. He is the clear frontrunner for Defensive Player of the Year. His ability to disrupt the Raiders’ offensive game plan cannot be overstated.

Las Vegas has struggled to find offensive consistency all season. Tight end Brock Bowers is a bright spot, but the Raiders lack explosiveness. Contending with Garrett will likely require extra blockers, limiting their offensive options further.

The outcome of this matchup may hinge on which struggling unit blinks first. Shedeur Sanders’ debut adds a compelling layer of uncertainty to a crucial game for both franchises.

Info at your fingertips

Why is Shedeur Sanders starting for the Browns?

Starting quarterback Dillon Gabriel is in the NFL’s concussion protocol. This injury opened the door for the rookie fifth-round pick, Shedeur Sanders, to make his first career start against the Raiders.

What is the betting line for the Browns vs. Raiders game?

The Las Vegas Raiders are currently 3.5-point favorites on the road. The over/under for total points scored is set at a low 36.5, according to major sportsbooks.

How have the Browns and Raiders performed this season?

Both teams have identical 2-8 records. They are among the worst in the league, with Cleveland’s offense and Las Vegas’s consistency being major issues throughout the year.

Who is the key defensive player to watch?

Browns defensive end Myles Garrett is the key. He leads the NFL with 15 sacks and can single-handedly wreck the Raiders’ offensive game plan on Sunday.

What is the historical record between these two teams?

The Raiders hold a clear historical advantage. They lead the all-time series 16-10 and have won the last five consecutive meetings against the Browns.