Browns Preview 12/15/17: Baltimore Ravens @ Cleveland Browns

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The still winless Cleveland Browns host the Baltimore Ravens in their last home game of the season this week. The Browns lost a heartbreaker last week to the Green Bay Packers in overtime. The Ravens also lost last week in a shootout with the Pittsburgh Steelers.


Browns Offense vs Ravens Defense


The last time the Browns played the Ravens the offense had a tough time. Kizer turned the ball over four times and as a team, the Browns turned it over five times total. That game was when Kizer exited the game with a migraine and then returned not at full health.

For the Browns offensively they need to take care of the football, it is that simple. And it starts with Kizer. The Ravens are going to bring pressure and force Kizer to beat them. Yes, the Browns have Josh Gordon and Corey Coleman but in the second half of the game last week they had issues with getting them the ball. A win or a loss is going to be because of Kizer's play.

The Ravens aren't going to let the running game get going. Crowell had his first 100+ yard game of the season last week but don't expect the same this week. The Browns running game will need get 100 yards total, between Crowell, Duke Johnson, and Kizer in order to keep the Browns in the game.



Browns Defense vs Ravens Offense

Joe Flacco hasn't had a great year so the Browns should force him into difficult throws under pressure. The Ravens have a solid running game led by Alex Collins who has 825 rushing yards this season. Joe Schobert and Christian Kirksey are the keys guys on defense this Sunday. They need to keep containment and not allow the big running play. Also it is on Gregg Williams to put guys in a the best position, which didn't happen in the fourth quarter last week.

The Browns desperately need to stop the run this week, The weather conditions won't be that great and hopefully the Browns can bait Flacco into some bad throws like he's prone to do.




Five Guys to Watch


1. DeShone Kizer: It's all on the quarterback, and Kizer hasn't shown the ability to take care of the football. Let's hope last weeks mistakes are a turning point in his young career.

2. Josh Gordon: Two games into his return Gordon has five catches, over 100 yards and a touchdown. He should have had a better game statistically last week but " no calls" on apparent penalties cost him and the Browns points.

3. Isaiah Crowell: Crowell needs to build upon a solid week last week. With not ideal weather conditions the Browns need someone to carry the rock and carry it well.

4. Nate Orchard: Orchard is getting more playing time with the first team since the Ogbah injury. He's not the run stopper Ogbah is but Orchard needs to step up since he playing on the run heavy side. Also it wouldn't hurt for him to pressure Flacco into some bad passes.

5. The playcallers: Hue Jackson and Gregg Williams need to improve on their second half play calling. Hue went super conservative last week, which is fine as long as he sticks with it. Williams did the same thing, he basically went to a prevent defense with the defensive backs lined up seven yards off of the line of scrimmage. That's one of the main reasons the Browns lost the lead last week. Allowing free jumps off of the line of scrimmage.


Injury:

Weather:

Betting Line (As of 12/14/17) Baltimore -7


Prediction

Baltimore 27 Browns 10

Another terrible loss, and the Browns will finishes winless at home this year. It really is getting harder to write these previews knowing the Browns have only a slim chance to pull up the upset. Next week it's onto Chicago on Xmas Eve...

Browns Preview 9/15/17: Cleveland Browns @ Baltimore Ravens

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The (0-1) Cleveland Browns travel to Baltimore to take on the (1-0) Ravens. Last week the Browns lost to the Steelers 21-18. The Ravens defeated the Cincinnati Bengals 20-0. In their game against the Bengals the Ravens forced five turnovers, so going into week two the Browns will need to limit the turnovers.


Browns Offense vs Ravens Defense:

The Browns passing game is most likely going to attack Ravens defensive back Brandon Carr. Carr isn't the player he once was. Corey Coleman is someone who has played really well since training camp began. Coleman last week caught all five passes thrown to him and he and quarterback DeShone Kizer already have some chemistry. So look out for the Browns to put Coleman in situations where he is matched up with Brandon Carr. The Ravens also like to use three safeties during passing downs. Moving Lardarious Webb to the nickle and playing veteran Eric Weddle and Tony Jefferson at "free/strong safeties". It should be interesting to see how the Browns counter this week. Last week we seen a lot of Duke Johnson in the slot, heck Johnson didn't even get a carry. Its going to be interesting to see if the Browns change Johnson's role week-to-week.

The Browns offensive line has to do a better job run blocking this week. Isaiah Crowell couldn't get separation last week and only rushed for 33 yards on 17 carries. That has to improve going forward. Hue Jackson isn't too worried about it, but with a rookie quarterback, you don't want to throw the ball more than you have too. And with the Ravens' pass rush lead by future hall of famer Terrell Suggs the Browns need to keep the Ravens honest with the run game.

The last thought on the offense is DeShone Kizer. He's going up against another extremely physical defense. It wouldn't be surprising if we see a couple late hits on the quarterback call like we did last week. Kizer has to play smart. Throw the ball away if nothing is open down field, slide while scrambling, and remembering that the check down is your friend.



Browns Defense vs Ravens Offense:

I really like this match up for the Browns. Yes, the Ravens played well last week , but the Browns defense is way better than Cincinnati's.  Last week the Ravens capitalized off of a turnover for one of their touchdowns, and the second was 48 yard pass to Jeremy Maclin on a drag route. The Browns last week did a great job limiting the deep ball. Yes, Antonio Brown got his...and yes it was on fluke plays but that's why AB is the best receiver in the NFL. Outside of the Maclin throw, Joe Flacco was 8/16 for 73 yards and an interception. I don't think passing game is going to kill the Browns this week like it did last week.

And the running game for the Ravens will be their strength. Former Brown Terrance West ran for 80 yards on 19 carries and Javorius Allen rushed for 71 yards on 21 carries. While having success last week against the Bengals, it isn't a for gone conclusion they will have success this week. The Browns limited the Steelers to 35 yards on the ground. Le'Veon Bell ran for 32 of the 35 on 10 rushes. The Browns defense is for real. And the key for them is to limit the running game and force Joe Flacco into turnovers...which is basically the key for the Raven's defense against the Browns offense.



Five Guys to Watch:

Joe Schobert: Schobert was one of a handful of guys to play every snap on defense last week. As the "mike" linebacker, Schobert is the "quarterback" of the defense. The position change during the off-season seems to have jump started his career after being a special teams/pass rushing specialist in his rookie year.

Duke Johnson: As I mentioned above, it's going to be interesting to see how Hue Jackson uses Johnson week-to-week. I wouldn't be surprised if we see him get 10-12 carries this week and a couple of catches, but this time lined up in the backfield where he's more comfortable.

DeShone Kizer: Kizer will be on this list every week. Its that simple. Kizer is potentially the quarterback of the future...so how can he not be one of the five guys to watch each week.

Ricardo Louis: Louis had a pretty good game last week. Yes, he only had two catches. But he was getting open and that's all you can ask for on a team with a lack of playmakers at wide receiver. Louis even came back last week from a nasty hit and caught a pass that put the Browns into scoring position.

Jabrill Peppers: I wasn't sure who my last "guy to watch" would be. So I picked the exciting playmaker Jabrill Peppers. I wouldn't be surprised if we see Peppers in for a couple plays on offense this week. *insert thinking emoji  Peppers playing "center field" with Joe Flacco at quarterback is exciting because we all know Flacco is known to take shots down field and with the ball-hawking skills Peppers has...it seems like the perfect opportunity for Peppers to get his first career interception.

Weather Report

Injury Report

Betting Line (As of 9/14/17): Baltimore -8

Prediction: Browns 24 Ravens 17





Call me crazy but I think the Browns will leave Baltimore with a 1-1 record. Kizer proved in one game that he gives the Browns an opportunity to win and that's all you can ask for with a rookie quarterback. But the Defense for the Browns will win this game. They will force the Ravens into turnovers and give the offense a short field. The running game for the Browns should be improved from last week which is why when they are given the lead they won't blow it like in years before.

Browns Recap 11.11.16: Cleveland Browns @ Baltimore Ravens

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The Browns fell to 0-10 Thursday night after a loss against the Baltimore Ravens. Which marks their 13th straight loss dating back to last season. Overall, this game fit the script of almost every game this season for the Browns. A competitive first half and then a total collapse in the second half. The Browns used three different quarterbacks this game, which was the first time a team did that since 2011.

The Browns had the lead at the end of the first half 7-6. Cody Kessler played the first half and one drive into the second. Kessler didn't play horribly going 11/18 for 91 yards and a touchdown. But was spelled by Josh McCown to hopefully bring a "spark" to the offense...unfortunately his "spark" lit a fire, and not in a good way. McCown went 6/13 for 59 yards, two interceptions and fumble.

Overall the offense really struggled in this game. Terrelle Pryor was the Browns leading receiver with five catches and 48 yards and Crowell was the Browns leading rusher with 23 yards on nine carries. Because of the lack of an overall offense the Browns couldn't control the time of possession, having the ball for only 21 mins, managing only 11 first downs and 144 total yards in the game. The Browns averaged 3.0 yards per play and were 2/10 on third down.

The only bright spot on offense was rookie Seth DeValve who caught his first career touchdown pass. And that Cody Kessler will be starting next week against the Steelers.

Defensively the Browns were...the Browns. Again like in weeks before they play really well in the first half. The first half only gave up six points in the first half, forced Joe Flacco into an interception, and sacked him twice. But in the second half...things really imploded. With the offense struggling the defense did all it could. They gave up a touchdown on the first drive of the second half but came back and forced another interception in the end zone...but then McCown came in and threw one of his two interceptions.

Joe Flacco had another Joe Flacco game. He went 30/41 for 296 yards three touchdowns and two picks. His leading receiver was 2015 first round pick Breshad Perriman, catching three passes for 64 yards and a touchdown (which went for 27 yards). Steve Smith Sr had five catches for 60 yards and a touchdown. The Ravens running game was really solid rushing for 119 yards on 34 carries. Former Browns running back Terrance West was the Ravens leading rusher with 65 yards on 21 carries.

Mike Wallace had a solid game for the Ravens catching four passes for 59 yards. And all four catches were against Joe Haden. Brein Boddy-Calhoun struggled against all of his match ups. Giving up seven catches and two touchdowns. He did intercept his second pass of this year which is tied for first place among rookies.

Most Valuable Brown

The Co-MVB(s) of this game: Christian Kirksey and Jamie Collins Sr. Kirksey was leading the Browns leading tackler with 13 and Collins was second with nine. Collins had a sack and two tackles for losses. They both also played really well in the run defense.  

The Browns going 0-16 is becoming a real possibility. But just remember that this is exactly what fans wanted and expected. A "tryout" year for many of these young players and having the opportunity to draft any player with the first overall pick. So lets not call for anyone's job just yet. Actually lets not call of anyone's job for another two years or so because...well...who else are the Browns going to get Coach this team.

Browns Preview 11.9.16: Cleveland Browns @ Baltimore Ravens

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The (0-9) Cleveland Browns travel to Baltimore to take on the (4-4) Ravens on Thursday night football. Last week the Browns lost 35-10 to the Cowboys and it was their worst game of the year. The Ravens pulled out a 21-14 victory against the Steelers, in a game where it seemed like no one wanted to win. Cody Kessler is the quarterback this week, and will be the starter for the rest of the year.


Browns Offense vs Ravens Defense

This week could be a nightmare offensively for the Browns. They've struggled running the ball in recent weeks, the passing game has become extremely "dink & dunk", and the right side of the offensive line has been a revolving door. With all that being said the Ravens only give up 298 total yards per game, which ranks second in the NFL just behind the Arizona Cardinals.

The passing game has to take more chances down the field. Kessler hasn't played terribly but him playing conservatively has limited the overall offense. But this week that should chance. Hue Jackson basically called out Kessler for not taking chances. So this could be a great game to start either Pryor or Corey Coleman if you have them in fantasy football. Coleman had three catches last week and it was a good game to knock the dust off.

The running game is going to be important this week. The Browns can't give up on it like last week against the Cowboys. Even if the Browns get down early they need to keep running the ball for a couple reasons. The first reason is to control the clock. Last week the Browns only had the ball for 20 mins. Also running the ball will hopefully open up the down field passing game which again has been lacking. Last but not least, running the ball will make third downs a lot more manageable.


Browns Defense vs Ravens Offense

The Browns defense struggles against the run and the Ravens struggle with running the ball...so something has to give. The Browns might not sell out on the run like in recent weeks, but they might be weary about it. No team has struggled to run the ball this year against the Browns, so the Ravens should try and run the ball which will open up down field passes with Joe Flacco.

Flacco is prone to mistakes and when he's under pressure so the Browns pass rush will have to get into the backfield. Carl Nassib, Emmanual Ogbah, and new Brown Jamie Collins Sr, will have to do what they were brought in for. This also seems like a Ray Horton type game, where he blitzes from all different angles to force mistakes.

But the main key defensively for the Browns is to stop the Ravens on third down. It seems like this team has regressed in that area in recent weeks. If the Browns can stay off the field and get to the quarterback they have a great shot to end their nine game losing streak.


Five Guys to Watch

Carl Nassib: Nassib seemed to have hit the rookie wall, which was expected. But it will be good to see how he plays though it. Also Nassib is extremely important in the pass rush and will need at least one sack for the Browns to stay in this game.

Joe Haden: Earlier this year Haden had two picks against the Ravens. Joe is going to have to ball out and prevent the shots down field. Whether he is working against Steve Smith Sr or Mike Wallace.

Cody Kessler: It will be interesting to see how Kessler responds after being called out by Hue Jackson.

Isaiah Crowell: The Browns need to restart the running game, and it starts with Crowell. Duke Johnson might be important in the passing game but Crowell's ability to break tackles and hit the holes hard will keep defenses honest and open up play calling for Kessler and Jackson.

Cam Erving: Erving needs to "put up or shut up" if he doesn't show any improvement, the Browns might move him to right tackle. Erving is will be an important part of the running game success. If Erving doesn't play well the Browns will become a "one trick pony".

Injury Report
Weather Report:
Betting Line: Baltimore -10


Prediction: Browns 28 - Ravens 24

Yes, I am predicting a Browns victory. It might be the last time I pick them to win a game, but this might be their best chance. The Ravens are coming off of a tough game against the Steelers and the Browns might catch them napping. Kessler will play aggressive which will open up the running game again, and the Browns seem to play well during prime time.

On The Mark 9.19.16: Browns vs. Ravens Recap

Big first quarter lead becomes end of game bust as Browns lose 25-20 to the Ravens
By Mark West, @Markw2112

Different coaches, different players, same result.  The Cleveland Browns, who always seem to find a way to lose, did it once again against the Baltimore Ravens with a 25-20 loss that saw the Browns start out with 3 quick touchdowns in the first quarter.  Those would be the only points the Browns would score for the rest of the game.  The Ravens would come back and score 25 unanswered points to win the game.  The 2 point safety was from a blocked extra point that was taken back.

Josh McCown started once again for the Browns and was extremely accurate in that first quarter.  But he was hit very hard throughout the game and appears to have hurt his left shoulder, which would be the same injury that Robert Griffin III suffered in week 1.  But he continued to play the entire game, going 22-of-33 for 260 yards, 2 touchdowns and 2 interceptions.  Both touchdowns went to Corey Coleman, first one on a 31 yard bomb and the second, on a shorter one from the red zone that he scrapped and fought for.  

Isaiah Crowell had a big day with 133 yards and an 85 yard touchdown. Terrelle Pryor had 3 catches for 32 yards.  In the fourth quarter, with the Browns down 5 and needing a touchdown, McCown threw a bullet on the sideline to Pryor who caught it and went out of bounds.  As he was delivering the ball to the ref, it bounced off the defenders head and the ref coming in threw a flag for taunting.  It was offset due to a penalty by the Ravens.  The next throw was an interception to end the game.

Joe Flacco was his effective self against the Browns, going 25-of-45 with 302 yards with 2 touchdowns and 2 interceptions, both by Haden.  Dennis Pitta lead all Ravens receivers with 102 receiving yards.  Mike Wallace lead with 2 touchdowns.  Justin Tucker had 3 field goals including a 52 yard bomb which could have gone over 60 yards.

My thoughts:  Browns tank continues.  While growth can be seen, especially with Corey Coleman, the Browns just couldn't keep the lead and lost it in the worst possible way.  Josh McCown will more than likely be out for a while after getting hit hard multiple times on his left shoulder.  McCown is a true pro's pro, but this might have been his only game this season.  The Browns defense did somewhat better this week, with Joe Haden getting 2 picks.  But Joe Flacco was able to pick apart the Browns secondary.  They didn't record a sack and it appears that Carl Nassib may miss some time with injury.  The way the game ended was just another typical Browns ending.  So close yet so far away.

Player of the game:  Josh McCown, who soldiered on with a bad left shoulder.  If only he was 10 years younger.

Play of the game:  A 35 yard bomb from McCown to Corey Coleman in the back of the end zone.  The first of his career.

Play of the game 2:  Isaiah Crowell's 85 yard touchdown run.

Next: at Miami, against the Dolphins at 1 PM.

Browns Preview 9.16.16: Baltimore Ravens @ Cleveland Browns

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The (0-1) Cleveland Browns hosts the (1-0) Baltimore Ravens in this week two matchup. The Browns lost in week one 29-10 against the Philadelphia Eagles and lost their starting quarterback Robert Griffin III. The Ravens on the other hand won against the Buffalo Bills 13-7. The Browns will be starting Josh McCown at quarterback. Last year McCown threw for 669 yards and three touchdowns in two games last year against the Ravens.


Browns Offense vs Ravens Defense

Baltimore's defense last week completely shut down the Bills offense, only allowing 160 total yards on 48 plays. The Browns have some work to do offensively since they only had 288 total yards and their time of possession was only 20:40 compared to the Eagles' 39:20. But there is some hope with Josh McCown under center. Like stated earlier Josh McCown put up some great stats last year against the Ravens. Also, with Josh McCown starting that means Gary Barnidge will get a lot more targets than the two he had last week. Barnidge was one of McCown's favorite targets last year, being thrown to 22% of the time and also catching six touchdown passes from him.

The running game with Isaiah Crowell and Duke Johnson will be extremely important. Its important because the Browns need to keep Josh McCown upright. The backup quarterback is Cody Kessler and he is not ready to play in the NFL yet. Having a consistent running game throughout the game will keep the Ravens' defense honest and prevent them from dropping everyone into coverage or blitzing as much. Last week the Ravens only gave up 2.7 yards per rushing attempt so the Browns will have some work to do. But they can't give up on the run like they did vs the Eagles.

The most important thing the Browns can do offensively is convert on third down. The Browns went 2/10 on third down and 0/2 on fourth down. Increasing the conversion percentage will also increase the time of possession.


Browns Defense vs Ravens' Offense

The Browns struggled last week giving up 403 total yards last week. Their main problem was not forcing any turnovers against the rookie quarterback Carson Wentz. But the young guys like Carl Nassib, Demario Davis, and Emmanual Ogbah played really well. The Browns struggled in the secondary. Joe Haden and Tramon Williams didn't play well. And against the Ravens' offense they need to have a big game. The Browns must prevent Joe Flacco from throwing the ball deep down field to either Mike Wallace, Steve Smith Sr, or Kamar Aiken. Last week Flacco threw for 258 yards and a touchdown which was a 66 yard bomb to Mike Wallace. Flacco was sacked four times last week so the Browns will be able to get to him, but its extremely important to prevent the deep ball.

The Ravens averaged 3 yards per rushing attempt last week. Justin Forsett and Terrance West slit the majority of the carries, Forsett having 10/41 and West having 12/32. Compared to last week the Browns gave up 133 yards on 34 attempts and a touchdown. The Browns need to keep both these running backs at bay and force Joe Flacco to live up to his "Elite" status.

Last but not least, for the Browns to win they need to force a turnover or two so the offense can have a shorter field. Flacco is prone to throwing picks at times so its key for the Browns to bait him into some aggressive throws.


Five Guys to Watch

Jordan Poyer: Poyer is the starting free safety for this defense and will be the last line of defense when the Ravens try to throw the deep ball down field. Poyer might have a few opportunities to pick off Flacco. If Poyer can do his job it will shorten the field for Flacco and the Ravens which could result in the ability to blitz a lot more than last week.

Cam Erving: Erving had a rough week against the Eagles. He had an terrible snap the resulted in safety and a nine point swing. Erving will be matched up against Brandon Williams a former third round pick in the 2013 draft. If Erving can have a bounce back game and make sure Josh McCown can stay upright it will be considered a successful game for Erving. Yes, its the little things to help build this young guys confidences.

Josh McCown: McCown is taking over for injured quarterback Robert Griffin III. If McCown can do what he did last year against the Ravens and not have any dumb throws like he is prone to have the Browns will stay in this game.

Gary Barnidge: For obvious reasons Barnidge is going to get a lot of targets this week against the Ravens. I don't expect him to only have two targets like he did last week. If the Browns want to improve on their third down conversion percentage,  Barnidge is going to have to be the main target for McCown.  

Carl Nassib: Nassib showed an ability to get into the backfield. And last week went up against one of the best offensive lines in the NFL. If Nassib can repeat what he last week he should help the Browns force Flacco into a turnover.

Injuries:
Weather:
Betting Line: Browns (+6.5)

Prediction

The Browns will fall to (0-2). The Browns' secondary isn't that good so I don't expect them to be able to stop Joe Flacco and company. They will need to prove to me that they can "lock down the lake" before I pick them in anymore game.  Now the offense will play fine, but its really hard to imagine Josh McCown having a 350+ yard passing game which is the type of game the Browns will need to stay in this game.

BOOOO Ravens Win... 35-24.

Radio Show 9.14.16: On Browns & NFL Week 2, College Football & Fall TV Shows

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Lee's Keys 11.30.15: Baltimore #Ravens @ Cleveland #Browns

By @cleeverizon

- STOP THE RUN: Even with Justin Forsett being gone for the season, the Browns are still the 32nd ranked defense versus the run. Buck Allen and former Browns running back Terrance West are expected to see a lot of work. West is going to return to Cleveland with a chip on his shoulder and a point to prove. Earlier this week, West said "I'm hungry, just getting this opportunity, I'm very hungry, and this Monday you'll see."

- CREATE CONFUSION: Matt Schaub hasn't started a NFL game in two years. The Ravens will assume they have the "tape" on the Browns defense. We must show multiple fronts and coverages to keep Schaub "guessing" and not "knowing" the defenders will be at. Zone blitzes, delayed blitzes, stunts and zones will help create havoc.

- NO CHUNKS: The Browns defense has been decimated by giving up chunk plays both on the ground and in the air. Setting the edge and making sure the defensive backs have over the top coverage will be key.

- Flex Gary Barnidge/Duke Johnson Create room in the box to open up running lanes, line Gary Barnidge up outside to take that linebacker out of the picture. Johnson can also be used in a dual running back set. Go in motion to free up a additional lane for Isaiah Crowell to run through. A tight end screen or two will also slow up the pass rush.  

- SPECIAL TEAMS: The Browns need to make something happen via special teams from creating a turnover or running a kickoff/punt back for a touchdown. 

#Browns Preview 11.29.15: Baltimore #Ravens @ Cleveland Browns

By @mrgroce

On Monday night in prime time, we will all get to watch the heavyweight matchup between the 2-8 Cleveland Browns and the 3-8 Baltimore Ravens. The Ravens are coming off of a 16-13 win against the St.Louis Rams, while the Browns are coming off of a somewhat eventful bye week. Shortly after naming QB Johnny Manziel the starter for the remainder of the season, Manziel made another bad decision off of the field and that has now led him to being named the third string QB for the foreseeable future. With Ravens QB Joe Flacco out with a torn ACL, fans of the NFL get to see Josh McCown and Matt Schaub battle it out. Watch party at my house.

Trying to find keys to the game for two teams that have five wins combined can be a bit difficult. Baltimore won against a tough, well coached team last week so I think it's safe to say they haven't given up yet. If the Browns who have lost their last two by 21 points each, coming off of a bye, at home on Monday night can't get up for this one against a division rival that they already beat, it would appear that they've waived the white flag. The Ravens could be without three starters on the offensive line, and rookie Javorius Allen replaces running back Justin Forsett in the backfield. Luckily for them, they'll be facing the seventh worst defense in total yards and the worst team against the run.

The Browns have only managed to score 19 points total in the last two games that Manziel started. They also were only able to gain 96 yards rushing in both of those games. In those two games, Johnny went 48-78 with 540 yards passing. The Browns average 20 points per game when McCown starts and 11 points when Manziel starts. Since the running game is basically nonexistent, expect to see a lot of Gary Barnidge and Travis Benjamin. McCown is still nursing sore ribs, so one good hit could open the door for backup QB Austin Davis to get some playing time.

Every Ravens game has been decided by eight points or less, and I don't see this one being any different. The Browns defense is bad but I don't see them getting beat by Schaub and a rookie running back. I have the Browns winning another close one over the Ravens 20-17.

What: Cleveland Browns vs. Baltimore Ravens
When: Monday Nov. 30 2015
Where: FirstEnergy Stadium Cleveland, Oh
TV/Radio: ESPN (national)/ 850 WKNR, 92.3 The Fan, 98.5 WCNX

On The Mark 10.12.15: #Browns @ #Ravens Recap

Browns stun the Ravens 33-30 in OT thanks to huge plays by McCown, Barnidge, Coons
By @MarkW2112

The Cleveland Browns, after 2 heartbreaking losses in a row, came to Baltimore, trying to stay out of the AFC North basement with the Baltimore Ravens.  It took them 4 quarters and 7 minutes in to overtime to do it, but they were able to beat the Ravens 33-30, thanks to the gutsy play of Luke McCown, the spectacular "butt" catch for a touchdown by Gary Barnidge and the strong, steady of leg of Travis Coons, who kicked the game winner in overtime.  It was an exhilarating road win for a team that is used to giving these kind of games away for a loss.

McCown lead the Browns offense with 457 yards passing, a regular season record, and 2 touchdowns as well as a rushing touchdown.  The best touchdown he had was a 'have to see it to believe it', between the legs catch by "Big Play" Gary Barnidge, who also had 139 yards receiving.  His catch made it 22-21 Browns after being down 21-9 at one point.  Those 9 points from Travis Coons helped the Browns stay in the game before the big game winning kick in overtime.

As good as the offense was, the defense was pretty much a disaster all game.  Joe Flacco was 19 of 35 for 210 yards and a touchdown but rushed for 2 more touchdowns.  Justin Forsett had 121 yards and touchdown.  The defense was just not able to stop the Ravens offense on too many occasions, including when they couldn't hold the Ravens to not tying the score at 30 with 29 seconds left.  In overtime, they were able to stop the Ravens with a 3 and out to set up the game winner for the offense.

My take:  The high powered offense the players touted in preseason is for real, at least for now.  Luke McCown is proving to be an excellent quarterback and leader for this team.  Gary Barnidge seems to be making big plays for the last few weeks, none bigger than the touchdown catch he had, which should be a candidate for best catch of the year.  The defense, however, is still very worrisome, with them giving up too many big plays and getting hit with too many penalties.  But let's not dwell on the negative.  The Browns won and victory Monday never tasted so sweet then after beating the former Browns on their home turf in Baltimore.

Player of the game: Travis Coons.  Yes, Luke McCown was fantastic but it was Coons and his big leg that kept the Browns in the game as well as kicking the game winner.

Play of the game:  The great leg/butt catch of Gary Barnidge for a touchdown which turned the tide for the Browns, which gave them the lead for the first time during the game.

Next for the Browns:  back in Cleveland next Sunday to play the undefeated Denver Broncos at 1 PM.  How nice would a home win against a Super Bowl contender be?

Lee's Keys 10.11.15: Cleveland #Browns @ Baltimore #Ravens

By @cleeverizon

PRESSURE JOE FLACCO: Joe Flacco has completed only 45% of his passes when he is blitzed and only averages 5 yards per pass in those situations.

STOP JUSTIN FORSETT: After a slow start running the ball, Justin Forsett had his best game of the season last week, racking up 150 yards and averaging 5.6 yards per carry against the Steelers. With wideout Steve Smith Sr ruled out for the game, Baltimore is going to look to take advantage of the 32nd ranked defense in the NFL.

ESTABLISH THE RUN: The Browns only ran the ball 21 times last week, while passing the ball 41 times. If the Browns control the clock running the ball, they will control the game. Force Flacco to throw the ball. He ranks fourth in the league right now in interceptions with 5.

GARY BARNIDGE: Coming into this week, Barnidge is third in the AFC amongst tight ends with 235 yards receiving and 3 touchdowns this year. Use him downfield in the passing game, which will help eliminate a linebacker from the play and create space for the running game.

SCORE EARLY: Take the crowd out of the game. Ravens are looking to secure their second win consecutive win of the season and stay relevant in the AFC north. This will be the loudest crowd the Browns have faced on the road and they look to make it difficult for the line to hear the snap count and audible calls.

Cleveland has ruled safety Tashaun Gibson, running back Robert Turbin and linebacker Craig Robertson officially out.

You can check out the injury for the Browns and Ravens for the week ending 10.9.15 right HERE.

#Browns Preview 10.10.15: Cleveland Browns @ Baltimore #Ravens

By @mrgroce

Another year another bad start. In typical O.I.C (only in Cleveland) fashion, the Cleveland Browns found another way to lose a football game. The NFL has "unofficially" stated that a mistake could have been made in calling a Browns' special teams player offsides in a game deciding penalty. I could go back and rehash last weeks debacle, but let's look to this Sunday's matchup versus the Baltimore Ravens. 

The Ravens and Browns both enter Sunday's contest with a 1-3 record, but seem to be going in different directions. Baltimore is coming off of what might be a season saving victory against the Pittsburgh Steelers while the Browns have lost two straight. The Ravens will be without veteran WR Steve Smith Sr., rookie WR Breshad Perriman who has yet to play, and WR Michael Campanaro will all be inactive Sunday. A depleted Ravens receiving corps against the Browns secondary might be the only edge the Browns will have.

Running back Justin Forsett is coming off of his best game this season (150 yards) averaged 6.5 yards a carry against the Browns last year. Slow down Forsett and the chances of winning increase tremendously, but you can't do that while being the last ranked defense in football. The Browns front seven has again been called out by coach Mike Pettine and I expect them to show up for the first time since the Titans game.

QB Josh McCown had his best game as a Brown last Sunday, but I'm not sure you can rely on him to consistently give you 300 yard passing games. The running game has improved with rookie Duke Johnson getting more added to his workload. The chemistry between McCown and the receiving corp seems to be coming together. I could go on and on about the Browns record against Joe Flacco, this weeks "controversy" surrounding cornerback Joe Haden, and the complete lack of productivity from Dwayne Bowe, but no thank you. If the Browns have any hope of salvaging the season they do everything in their power to pull this game out. I'll try to remain positive and do something that I didn't think I'd do again this year and that is to pick the Browns to win Sunday, 17-14.


What: Cleveland Browns vs Baltimore Ravens
When: Sunday Oct.11 1:00 PM
Where: M&T Bank Stadium Baltimore, Maryland
TV/Radio: CBS, WKNR 850 Cleveland, WKRK 92.3 The Fan, WNCX 98.5

3 Rivers Rundown 1.29.15: Super Bowl Week With John Jones

By @Kratoslives

Hello folks, I have a special treat for you.

I managed to get an interview with John Jones. Who is John Jones? He is a Super Bowl champion born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio who I became friends with. I know, how the hell does a "Ratbird" and Steelers fan become friends? Well truthfully, I don't know but it worked so here is the interview.

Jaison Roberts: John, what was it like preparing for the Super Bowl?

John Jones: "It was different for me because the week after the wild card game, I tore up my ankle in practice. I took a hit from Ray Lewis, which required surgery and put me on IR."

JR: Was there any special treatment for you?
JJ: "Yeah, none. I was still required to be in meetings and all team functions. In short, HELL NO!"

JR: What was the team meeting about the night before the game?
JJ: "Believe it or not, it was real relaxed, but they showed a clip from "Fight Club". The one where the guy kills everyone in the restaurant but one guy. He tells the guy that tomorrow will be the best day of his life. Which turned out to be the message to us, relax because tomorrow will be the greatest day in our lives."

JR: So was there ever any doubt about the game?
JJ: "Truthfully no. We knew we were going to win because we had the greatest D ever."

JR: So what was Brian Billick's half time speech about?
JJ: "I don't know."

JR: What do you mean you don't know?
JJ: "I don't know because I stayed out to watch Mary J. Blige perform. She was the half time show."

JR: Jones, man you're stupid. (Laughter) I can't believe you did that.
JJ: "Hey."

So there you have it Cleveland, the John Jones interview. I promise to bring you more from him. Maybe we'll be able to get his training camp story out of him in a later date.