UCLA Football: Watch Highlights From Bruin Dorian Thompson-Robinson's First Career W As Starter

The Cleveland Browns did have some expectations heading into the year. However, much of them sat with the presence of high-priced QB Deshaun Watson.

Nicked up with various injuries throughout the year, he recently suffered a season-ending shoulder injury. Pegged to be his replacement is ex-UCLA Bruin rookie quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson.

While a very prolific collegiate quarterback with elite athletic ability, some questioned whether he'd be good enough to presumably lead the Browns to the playoffs. Based on today's effort versus rival Pittsburgh, DTR clearly quieted some of the doubters.

An emotional and triumphant Dorian Thompson-Robinson talks to our @EvanWashburn following his first @Browns win. pic.twitter.com/bczBsBrAYR
— NFL on CBS 🏈 (@NFLonCBS) November 19, 2023

Tied at 10 with time dwindling, Thompson-Robinson engineered a game-winning drive by making a plethora of huge throws down the stretch. His headiness in getting the team in field-goal range resulted in a 34-yard game-winning kick by Dustin Hopkins with two seconds left.

In only his second career start, Thompson-Robinson went 24-of-43 for 165 yards. He also had 20 yards rushing on three carries. While the numbers won't pop off the screen, DTR is still a work in progress. Winning such an important game versus a massive AFC North rival will only help the young signal-caller going forward.

leaving Chief that wide open?! interesting choice#PITvsCLE on CBS & NFL+ pic.twitter.com/9kWLt5ulvL
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) November 19, 2023

Not only will he have gained some much-needed confidence, but DTR also gain some real experience. The Browns now sit at 7-3 with a real shot at not only earning a playoff berth but also potentially competing for the AFC North crown against the vaunted Baltimore Ravens.

three names and delivering pain. pic.twitter.com/br0oagfA7h
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) November 19, 2023

As the game progressed, you saw Thompson-Robinson become more comfortable -- particularly with the amount of blitzing Pittsburgh threw his way.

Aside from one interception, DTR was very efficient with his throws. If the play wasn't there, he'd either throw it away or check down for a manageable look. Considering few thought that the fifth-round pick would play this year, DTR is at the very least looking like the type of talent that can keep Cleveland competitive for the remainder of the season.

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