With the help of another strong performance from their defensive unit and quarterback Joe Flacco, the Cleveland Browns posted a 37-20 win over the New York Jets on Thursday night to reach the playoffs for the second time in 21 years.
After his team's two majors, Browns safety Ronnie Hickman made his first career interception with just over two minutes left in the first quarter. The rookie, who was overlooked in the last NFL draft, will long remember his first “steal” at the expense of Trevor Siemian, when the 22-year-old returned the ball 30 yards for the touchdown.
The Browns defense also caused a fumble on the play and was able to recover it.
The Jets linebacker also returned an interception in the end zone, but his effort wasn't enough for the Big Apple team.
In the win, veteran Joe Flacco threw three touchdown passes, including two to Jerome Ford and one to wide receiver Elijah Moore. However, the latter left the game when he hit his head after a tackle in the second quarter.
Cleveland is now 11-5 with one game remaining.
The Browns' last playoff appearances came in 2002 and 2020, respectively.