Watch: Browns defense intentionally push Chargers RB Austin Ekeler into endzone for TD
On Sunday, the Cleveland Browns and the Los Angeles Chargers produced a game-of-the-year contender, combining for over 1,000 yards of offense and 89 points. However, the game will be remembered for Austin Ekeler's rushing touchdown late in the fourth quarter.
With just 1:37 left in the final quarter, the Cleveland Browns were leading 42-41 as the Chargers had a 1st-and-goal on the three-yard line. When Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert took the snap and handed the ball off to Ekeler, the running back looked like he would intentionally stop short of the goal line.
Doing so would burn the clock and essentially wind it down for a final second field goal attempt for the win. However, the Cleveland Browns defense had other ideas.
Ekeler gets pushed into the endzone by the Browns defense
Instead of allowing Ekeler to stop short, the defense carried him over the goal line for a touchdown. Sounds a little weird, right? Check it out here:
.@AustinEkeler's IN ... with a little help from the Browns.
📺: #CLEvsLAC on CBS
📱: NFL app https://t.co/rZKhcyt8vL
The Browns did this to get the ball back with a little over a minute to go and give themselves a chance to win the game with a touchdown. Unfortunately for Baker Mayfield and the Browns, this didn't eventuate, and the Chargers closed out a 47-42 win in Los Angeles.
Justin Herbert continued his impressive form, throwing for 398 yards and four touchdown passes. Chargers receiver Mike Williams had a great day, hauling in eight receptions for 165 yards and two touchdowns. The Chargers scored an incredible 26 points in the fourth quarter to secure the victory.
For Mayfield and the Browns, the loss will not change how the football world sees them, but it will be a hard one to swallow. When your offense scores over 40 points, more often than not, you win the game. Today was the exception.
PURO PINCHI CHARGERS https://t.co/qHlHHGjAo2
Mayfield, like Herbert, played his part, throwing for over 300 yards and two touchdowns, with David Njoku having an incredible game, catching seven passes for 161 yards and a touchdown.
The Browns are a well-balanced team and have one of the best running games in football. Nick Chubb rushed for 161 yards and a touchdown on 21 carries while his partner in crime, Kareem Hunt, had 12 carries for 61 yards and two touchdowns.
The game was a high-scoring thriller but will be remembered for the Browns' effort to get Ekeler into the endzone.
Also Check Out: Complete NFL Bye Weeks 2021 Schedule