TRIPLE THREAT CLE: DeShone Kizer

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Friday, December 8, 2017

Browns Preview 12/8/17: Green Bay Packers @ Cleveland Browns

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The 6-6, Aaron Rodgers-less Green Bay Packers travel to Cleveland this week to take on the 0-12 Browns. If at the beginning of the season someone told you the Packers would be 6-6, the Browns were winless but still had a chance no one would have believed you. Its also been a fun Thursday as a Browns fan, Sashi Brown was fired and Hue Jackson will remain the Head Coach in 2018. *insert Mike Polk "Fun times in Cleveland Again". But on to actual game...

Browns Offense vs Packers Defense

I know this is crazy to say but the Browns might be able to put up some points against the Packers defense. Their passing defense isn't that good, and DeShone Kizer could actually throw an accurate pass to Josh Gordon we could see Gordon go for 150 yards and two touchdowns. Again, I know it sounds nuts, but what Gordon did last week against Casey Hayward isn't really anything to take lightly. The guy shut down all the other top receivers he's gone up against this year and is ranked as the top cornerback this year. Gordon against a struggling Packers secondary screams Kizer's first 300 yard game.

The running game needs to keep on keeping on. And that means Isaiah Crowell, Duke Johnson, and DeShone Kizer. Last week they had just under 100 yards against a really tough defense in the Chargers. Now the Packers run defense is better than their pass defense because of Mike Daniels and Blake Martinez. If the Browns can get a lead and use the run game to win the time of possession it could be a recipe for success.

Browns Defense vs Packers Offense

The Packers will have to start Brett Hundley for one more week. With the help of two defensive touchdowns last week the Packers beat the Buccaneers 26-20 in overtime. In that game Hundley threw for 84 yards and threw one pick. Its fairly obvious that Green Bay misses Rodgers. The key for the Browns this game is to let Hundley beat you with his arm. He's thrown for only five touchdowns in the eight games he's played. And he's also prone to turnovers, throwing eight picks and fumbling three times.

The Browns should key in on stopping the run this week. The Packers have a running back by committee with Jamaal Williams and Aaron Jones as their leading rushers. The Browns also can't forget about Hundley scrambling out of the pocket. He has good speed and ran for 66 yards last week in the overtime win.

Five Guys To Watch

1. Josh Gordon: In his first game in almost three seasons Gordon went for four catches for 85 yards. He also went up against the best corner in the league. It should be exciting to see how he plays against a struggling secondary.

2. DeShone Kizer: If it weren't for Kizer the Browns probably would have won last week. Multiple terrible throws to a wide open Josh Gordon and a sack-fumble in the redzone. That's exactly why we lost. But Sunday is another chance to redeem himself.

3. David Njoku: Njoku had a career game last week. Four catches for 74 yards and a touchdown. Hopefully this means we get to see Njoku on the field more.

4. Joe Schobert: In a game where the Browns need to stop the run Schobert seems like an obvious pick for a guy to watch.

5. Hue Jackson: Let's be 100%...Hue Jackson won the power struggle against Sashi Brown. And with that he has security for 2018. I'm curious if Jackson starts to change up his playcalling knowing his job is safe going forward. I expect him to go into his bag of tricks this week and have a good game overall.

Injury Report:

Weather Report:

Betting Line (As of 12/7/17)
Packers -3

Prediction:
Browns 24 Packers 14

I know, I'm crazy for picking the Browns but with everything that's happened this week it seems like a game the Browns could accidentally win...the stars are lining up. The Packers are struggling on defense, they don't have Aaron Rodgers, and the Browns have Josh Gordon and a head coach who really doesn't have any pressure on him to win a game since 2018 is already guaranteed.

Wednesday, December 6, 2017

Podcast 12/5/17: On College Championship Weekend, Bowl Games, Browns/Josh Gordon, NFL Rough Play & More

Tuesday, November 21, 2017

Podcast 11/21/17: On Thanksgiving Foods, College Rivalry Weekend, Browns Lose Again, Nathan Peterman & More

Friday, November 10, 2017

Browns Preview 11/10/17: Cleveland Browns @ Detroit Lions

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The winless Cleveland Browns travel to Detroit to take on the (4-4) Lions this week. The Browns are coming off of their bye week and what an eventful bye week it was. A botched trade which would have sent AJ McCarron to Cleveland and the reinstatement of Josh Gordon (who isn't eligible to play until week 13). The Lions on the other hand beat the Aaron Rodgers-less Green Bay Packers on Monday Night Football 30-17.

Browns Offense vs Lions Defense

It should be interesting to see how Kizer reacts going forward. The potential trade for McCarron only proves that the Browns aren't sold on Kizer being the future for this team. It doesn't mean he can't improve but he has a lot to prove in the next eight weeks.

The game plan should be simple. Run the ball and throw quick passes. Just like the Browns last game vs the Vikings the game plan was to get the ball out of Kizer's hands as fast as possible. Whether it was on a screen pass or quick drag routes to the receivers it seemed to have worked. Kizer didn't have a turnover that game...baby steps.

The running game on the other hand had its ups and downs. Crowell had a solid game for the first time this year but had a costly fumble to start the second half. The game plan of giving Crowell the ball more than Duke Johnson probably won't change unfortunately. What we can hope for is Crowell to have some type of game like he did last week. That's the only way the Browns can have success against the Lions, and keep this game relatively close.

Browns Defense vs Lions Offense

The Lions are lead by one of the best quarterbacks in the league, Matt Stafford. The Lions offensive revolves around the passing game. Golden Tate is their leading receiver with 50 catches, Marvin Jones is second with 33 and Theo Reddick is third on the team with 29 catches. Reddick is predominantly their third down back and isn't a huge threat to run the ball with only 27 attempts on the season. The Lions passing offense ranks 7th and they are 8th when it comes to points per game.

The Browns defense on the other hand has had issues when it comes to pass defense this year. But which Myles Garrett coming back this week, along with Jabrill Peppers and potentially Jason McCourty the Browns defense might be able to limit the powerful passing game of the Lions.

The running game for Detroit is non-existent. They rank 29th in the league with Ameer Abdullah as their leading rusher with just over 400 yards on the season. The Browns rank in the top five when it comes to rush defense so their is going to be a lot of passes thrown in this game.

Five Guys To Watch

1. DeShone Kizer: I'm curious to see how he plays going forward. Kizer is playing for his opportunity to start in 2018.

2. Myles Garrett: Garrett is exciting to watch...when he plays. He should be as close to 100% missing the London game with a concussion. Expect Garrett to play majority of the snaps this week.

3. David Njoku: Another young rookie who has played well this year. The Browns need to use him as a third down/red zone threat. He's a big target for Kizer and has pretty good hands.

4. Christian Kirksey: Kirksey will be in charge of covering Reddick out of the backfield. It is extremely important for the Browns to keep the Lions passing game in check this week. They can't afford to let backs break free while checking down to the receivers.

5. Spencer Drango: Drango is taking over for the injured Joe Thomas at left tackle. This week he is going up against Ziggy Ansah, who is without a doubt one of the better pass rushers in the league. Drango had a solid game against the Viking and their elite pass rush. Hopefully he can continue to build on the solid outing.

Weather: Dome

Injury Report:

Betting Line (as of 11/9/17)
Detroit -10

Prediction: Lions 28 Browns 13

This game could be close for the majority of the game. But in the forth quarter is when the Lions pull away. The Browns offense will continue to struggle with the lack of playmakers and fans will be patiently waiting for Corey Coleman to get back (next week vs JAX) and the return of Josh Gordon.

Friday, October 27, 2017

Browns Preview 10/27/17: Minnesota Vikings @ Cleveland Browns, In London

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The Cleveland Browns and the Minnesota Vikings travel to England to play their game this week. The Browns still winless on the season after losing in overtime to the Tennessee Titans. The Browns will also be without Joe Thomas in the starting lineup for the first time since the 2006 season. Kevin Shaffer was the last guy not named Joe Thomas to start at left tackle for the Browns. The Vikings are leading the NFC North with a 5-2 record.

Browns Offense vs Vikings Defense

The Browns will be starting DeShone Kizer at quarterback after benching him in the second half of last weeks game. The Browns game plan this week is pretty simple, protect the ball. Kizer needs to take care of the ball especially in the redzone. The Browns will start Spencer Drango at left tackle in place of Joe Thomas this week.

The Browns running game is probably the most important key to the game this week. The Browns need some type of a running game to protect Kizer from throwing the ball too much. In my opinion Duke Johnson should get the majority of the carries but that's unlikely because we know Hue Jackson likes to run Crowell instead. Johnson and tight end David Njoku need to be on the field more and those are the only two consistent playmakers Kizer has had this year.

Browns Defense vs Vikings Offense

The Browns will be without Myles Garrett who is suffering from a concussion. The Browns could be without Jabrill Peppers and Jason McCourty this week too.

The Browns will be going up against Case Keenum this week. The goal for the Browns defensively is to limit Adam Thielen. Thielen is one of the leading receivers on the year. If the Browns can limit him and force Keenum to dink and dunk his way down the field the Browns defense could have a pretty good day. The Vikings running game isn't really a threat after rookie Dalvin Cook injured his knee and is out for the season.

The Browns are going to have a tough time getting pressure on Keenum and forcing him into bad throws so I almost expect for them try and force him into quick throws like they did week one against Pittsburgh.

Five Guys to Watch

1. DeShone Kizer: This one is pretty simple. Like every other week he starts he is the number one guy fans should watch. Kizer hasn't really developed as we all hoped and with the injury to Joe Thomas he will probably get hit a lot more.

2. Duke Johnson: Johnson is the only dynamic playmaker on the team. It is inexcusable that Johnson doesn't get the ball more. I say this every week. Duke needs to be the number one running back going forward for this team.

3. Carl Nassib: With Garrett out this week Nassib will be starting in his place. Nassib has played okay when Garrett was out. The Browns need him to get pressure on Keenum in order to create a potential turnover.

4. Jamar Taylor: With McCourty being questionable this week Taylor is the number one corner again this week. Taylor did a good job last week against the Titans but with have a tough challenge this week with the weapons the Vikings have.

5. Any Receiver: The Browns need one of their receivers this week to step up. Britt has been a cancer on this team, but if Bryce Treggs or Kasen Williams can have a decent game hopefully it will be something Kizer and his receivers can build upon.

Injuries

Weather

Prediction: Vikings 35 Browns 10

With a potential blowout in England, Hue Jackson going 1-23 in his tenure, and the bye week next week this could be Hue Jackson's last game as the Browns head coach. Unless the owner and front office come out and say we are going to keep Hue Jackson for the rest of the season and go into 2018 with Hue also. This upcoming bye week could be interesting for a number of reasons. A fired head coach and/or a potential new hire to the front office...Stay Woke.

Friday, October 20, 2017

Browns Preview 10/20/17: Tennessee Titans @ Cleveland Browns

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The winless Cleveland Browns host the Tennessee Titans this Sunday. The Browns will be starting rookie Quarterback DeShone Kizer. Kevin Hogan played terrible last week and sustained a rib injury. Cody Kessler will be Kizer's backup this week. The Titans will be starting Marcus Mariota after coming back from an injury last week in which he played well. The Titans defeated the Colts last week 36-22 to give themselves a 3-3 record.

Browns Offense vs Titans Defense

There is no question the Browns offense has had its struggles in the first six weeks of the season. The issues are simple. Inconsistent quarterback play, the lack of weapons at receiver, and Isaiah Crowell. The Browns this week and going forward should do a few things different.

First, get Duke Johnson more touches. Whether it is 15 rushes and another seven targets in the passing game. Duke Johnson need the ball. His the only reliable playmaker on this team. Now that doesn't mean Hue Jackson shouldn't use Crowell. Crowell should be used when they are running the ball straight up the middle in between the tackles.

The Browns offense also might want to tone it down with the deep ball. I understand the lack of playmakers makes it hard build drives but getting Kizer in second or third and long doesn't help anyone. With that being said, Kizer is still going to have to throw the ball down field to keep the defense honest.

The final major key for the Browns this week is to trust Kizer. I know that might seem a bit difficult but Hue Jackson has no choice. The benching of Kizer was a knee-jerk reaction. And playing Hogan after a terrible first half was pain stubbornness by Hue. What ever happens Kizer needs to play through it. Yes, it could be another Baltimore game where he throws multiple interceptions but this was the hand Hue was dealt and how he played it.

The Titans defense is a middle of the road defense. This easily could be the week Kizer has a breakout game. But in order for the Browns offense to run their gameplan the Browns defense will need to keep the game close.

Browns Defense vs Titans Offense

The Titans will have Mariota at quarterback but is unlikely to have running back DeMarco Murray. Derrick Henry will likely get the start for the injured Murray. Henry and Murray have identical stats, both running for over 300 yards so far. Henry ran for 131 yards last week against the Colts and Mariota threw for 306 and one touchdown.

The Browns secondary might have some struggles against the receivers of the Titans. Rishard Matthews is their leading receiver with veteran Eric Decker lined up opposite of him. Where the Browns will have issues is covering Delanie Walker, who leads the Titans in catches.

Five Guys to Watch

1. DeShone Kizer: Kizer was benched last week and he had to suffer like the rest of us through a terrible game last Sunday. Hopefully Kizer response positively. And again let's all remember the kid is only 21 years old and has only played in three full games as crazy as that sounds.

2. Jamar Taylor: While Jason McCourty is having a really good year, Jamar Taylor on the other hand hasn't. The Titans will probably target Taylor most of the day and with Taylor dealing with an injury this could be bad news for the Browns.

3. Myles Garrett: With all the speculation of a new front office taking over and them constantly passing on franchise quarterbacks, the pick of Garrett at one has been a home run. Garrett in two games has put pressure on opposing quarterbacks, forcing turnovers and sacks. Garrett is one of the lone bright spots so far this season and he's only played in two games.

4. Duke Johnson: Like stated above, Johnson needs to get the ball a lot more. Of all the things I've had issues with offensively this season the limited touches by Duke is number one. He's the only guy on the field who can take a screen pass or a drag route for a touchdown. He's the lone playmaker on this team the Hue need to feed Duke more.

5. David Njoku: Outside of Johnson, Njoku has been a surprise. A lot of fans didn't think he would make this type of an impact on the team this early. But with is ablity to out run linebackers and out jump safeties, Njoku should be Kizer's favorite target this week in the redzone after have a lot of redzone issues the first five weeks of the season.

Injury Report

Weather Report

Betting Line (As of 10/19/17): Tennessee -6

Prediction: Titans 27 Browns 14

The Browns will fall to 0-7 on the year this week. It will become more and more difficult to defend Hue Jackson as season moves on. I expect Kizer to play better than he has but the lack of playmakers will really show this week. The defense should keep the game close but again like they have in weeks before give up a touchdown drive to put the game out of hand late in the fourth quarter.

Friday, September 29, 2017

Browns Preview 9/29/17: Cincinnati Bengals @ Cleveland Browns

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The winless Cincinnati Bengals travel to Cleveland to take on the winless Browns in this week four matchup. The Browns lost to the Colts 31-28 last week. And the Bengals lost to the Packers 27-24 in overtime.

Browns Offense vs Bengals Defense

The Browns offense on the other hand has struggled during the first three weeks of the season. Last week, turnovers and penalties killed the Browns' momentum at times. Kizer threw three picks last week, all in the second half of the game, when the Browns were down two touchdowns. The Browns passing game didn't get any help from their young receivers. The receivers were called for four offensive pass interference penalties.

The gameplan this week for the Browns should be pretty simple. Protect the ball. Last weeks three picks from Kizer wasn't good, especially the first one that was in the redzone. The running game needs to keep improving, but in order for the running games to get an opportunity the Browns defense needs to keep them in games. Like last week, the Browns were forced to throw the ball 47 times because the Browns were down three scores. Kizer and Isaiah Crowell had 11 attempts each and Duke Johnson was only given two rushes but made the most of his opportunity, scoring on a 19-yard touchdown run. Hopefully this week against the Bengals, who have struggled against the run this year, the Browns can get their running game going.

The passing game this year is lead by Duke Johnson, Rashard Higgins, Seth Devalve, and David Njoku. The Browns need someone on the outside to step up. Guys like Kenny Britt and Ricardo Lewis have had issues getting open. This week the outside guys need to step up in order to open up the passing game for their leading receivers.

Browns Defense vs Bengals Offense

The Browns might have Myles Garrett back this week. Garrett participated in practice Thursday. Unfortunately, Jamie Collins is still in concussion protocol.

The Bengals have three running backs they alternate with. Rookie Joe Mixon is their leading rusher, with Gio Bernard and Jeremy Hill second and third. The Browns run defense on the other hand has done a pretty good job this year. They are ranked 14th in rush defense this year.

The issue for the Browns defense this week will be Andy Dalton and AJ Green. Last week the Browns let T.Y. Hilton do whatever he wanted in the first half. And that is one of if not the main reason the Browns lost last week. They can't keep letting the opposition's best receiver kill them each week. Going into week four, AJ Green is the Bengals leading receiver with 20 catches. Brandon LaFell is second on the team with eight...So the game plan on defense should be limit Green and force Dalton to use other weapons.

Five Guys to Watch

1. DeShone Kizer: Like I say every week, Kizer is the number one guy to watch. He's the franchise quarterback for this regime. I think we will start seeing improvement with Kizer. Last week he only took one sack, which is a major positive. Now we need to see his accuracy improve with these receivers.

2. Jabrill Peppers: He's another guy where everyone is watching multiple things. First, where he is lined up on defense. And second how he comes up and plays in open field. Last week he and a horrible game. Hopefully he can rebound and play a bit less hesitant.

3. Myles Garrett: This one is pretty simple. Garrett was our number one overall pick and has yet to play a down in the regular season. Garrett's ability as a pass rusher should help a defense that is one of the worst at getting pressure on the quarterback.

4. Trevon Coley: With Danny Shelton dealing with an injury, Coley will have to step up and be the number one defensive tackle on defense. Guys like Coley, Meder, Ogunjobi, and Brantley have played really well in rush defense. All these guys are going to have to step up if Shelton is either out of game or extremely limited when playing.

5. Emmanual Ogbah: Ogbah has struggled in the first three weeks of the season. Hopefully with the return of Garrett, Ogbah can get more favorable matchups and get to the quarterback way more than he has.

Injury Report

Weather Report

Betting Line: Cincinnati -3

Prediction: Browns 24 Bengals 17

Yes, I am once again taking the Browns to win a game...I think the presence of Myles Garrett is going to help the defense without a doubt. And because the defense will be much improved it will give Hue Jackson an opportunity to call on the running game much more than he's been able to through three weeks. If the Browns win the turnover battle they will win this game.

Friday, September 22, 2017

Browns Preview 9/22/17: Cleveland Browns @ Indianapolis Colts

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

In week three of the NFL season the (0-2) Cleveland Browns travel to Indianapolis to take on the
(0-2) Colts. Last week the Browns lost 24-10 to the Ravens. The Colts lost to the Cardinals 16-13 in overtime. The Colts are without Andrew Luck and will be starting Jacoby Brissett, who they acquired from the Patriots in the preseason.

Browns Offense vs Colts Defense

The Browns offense has struggled in the first two weeks. The Browns running game isn't were it should be and it might struggle again this week. The Browns are 25th in the league in rushing and the Colts defense is ranked seventh stopping the run. Isaiah Crowell needs to improve going forward or his carries will likely decrease going forward. The Browns need some type of a running game to get going in order to project Kizer and the lack of weapons in the passing game.

Just like the previous two weeks, Kizer needs to get the ball out a lot quicker and make better decisions. Last week Kizer threw three picks and had a fumble. Fortunately for him this week, the Colts defense gave up over 300 yards passing in the first two weeks. So this might be a great time for Kizer to have a breakout game and notch his for career victory.

But it's not just on Kizer. The receivers have struggled in the first two weeks also. And with Corey Coleman out for the next eight weeks, the Browns need someone to step up like Rashard Higgins did last week. Kenny Britt is the elder-statesman of the group and has to prove he's worth his contract. Ricardo Lewis has played well at times but has his issues like any young receiver. And guys that were brought in to make an impact, Sammie Coates and Kasen Williams need to play more of a role. Hopefully with more reps with Kizer and knowing the playbook they can see an increase of a role on offense. And let's not forget that the Browns signed Jordan Leslie to the practice squad this week, and he could potentially be brought up to the active roster before Sunday's game.

Browns Defense vs Colts Offense

The Colts and Browns offense vs defense are basically identical. The Colts are going with a young quarterback in Jacoby Brissett who is basically their long-term backup going forward when Andrew Luck gets healthy. The Colts passing game hasn't been good to start the year. Heck, the Colts are already on their second quarterback to start the young season, Scott Tolzien started for them week one against the Rams. Last week Brissett only averaged 5.8 yards per attempt going 20/37 from the field for 216 yards and an interception.

Don't sleep on the weapons Brissett has at his disposal. T.Y. Hilton is a top receiver in the league. Jack Doyle is a solid tight end, and in the slot a combination of Donte Moncrief and Kamar Aiken could give the Browns defense some fits. There is also some speculation that number one overall pick Myles Garrett could make his season debut this week. He is out of a walking boot and riding the stationary bike during practice. The Browns could be without linebacker Jamie Collins who is in the NFL's concussion protocol.

The running game for the Colts is non-existent. Frank Gore is their leading back at 34 year old and has 88 yards in two games. The Colts also use former Brown Robert Turbin out of the backfield and rookie Marlon Mack to spell Gore at times.

Five Guys to Watch

DeShone Kizer: Kizer had a terrible game last week. It's just that simple. This week is another week for him to prove himself again. To show everyone he can rebound after a terrible start and play well against a team that is beatable.

Duke Johnson: Johnson returned to the backfield last week after spending week one in the slot as a receiver. With a lot of talk of Crowell wanting carries to prove himself, don't sleep on Duke Johnson. If Crowell can't get the job done, it might be time for the Browns to give Johnson more carries going forward.

James Burgess Sr: This one is pretty simple. If Jamie Collins can't go this week, Burgress is inline to start in place of him. Burgess has played fairly well in the first two week and maybe this an opportunity to show the Browns who he is.

I don't really have five specific players to watch this week, so I am combining number four and five and just saying the wide receivers in general. Someone needs to step up. Whether its Kenny Britt, Sammie Coates, or one of the young guys. The Browns lack of receivers aren't helping Kizer at all.

Weather Report: It doesn't matter...The Colts play inside...

Injury Report:

Betting Line (As of 9/21/17): Browns -1.5

Final Prediction: Browns 17 Colts 14

Yes, I'm picking the Browns again this week. I think Kizer will do just enough to keep the Browns ahead but it is going to be the defense making a big play and either scoring points or setting up the Offense with a short field. Also I think Hue Jackson's playcalling will be improved this week because the Browns won't have to play from behind as much, if at all, this week.

Friday, September 15, 2017

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.

Wednesday, September 13, 2017

Krunch Time With Katelin: DeShone Kizer Vs. Other Browns QBs First Starts

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The Browns fell short in DeShone Kizer's first career start 21-18 against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Kizer showed a lot of promise in his first career start, going 20/30 for 222 yards in the air. Kizer threw one touchdown and one interception. Kizer also ran for 17 yards and a touchdown. He made normal rookie mistakes like, over throwing wide receivers and holding the ball too long resulting in sacks.

All in all Kizer gives the Browns hopes for the future. Now for the fun of it let us look back on other Browns quarterback's first career starts since '99.

Tim Couch: First start was week two of the 1999 season. Couch went 12/24 for 134 yards and a touchdown in a 26-9 loss against Tennessee. Couch was sacked seven times and lost a fumble. Obviously Couch's career was derailed because of a terrible offensive line.

Charlie Frye: First start, week 13 in 2005. Frye went 13/20 for 226 yards and two touchdowns in a 20-13 loss against Jacksonville. Frye was the first of a few guys, who Browns fans hoped would be our starting Quarterback of the future who was drafted in the mid-rounds.

Brady Quinn: Quinn didn't start a game until his second season in 2008 because of the success of Derek Anderson in 2007. Quinn's first start was week 10 in 2008 against the Denver Broncos. Quinn threw for 239 yards and two touchdowns on 23/35 passing in a 34-30 loss.

Colt McCoy: McCoy was forced into starting because of injuries in 2010. He took on the Steelers in week 6. The Browns lost 28-10 but McCoy went 23/33 passing for 281 yards, a touchdown and two picks.

Brandon Weeden: Brandon Weeden was the first rookie quarterback since the Browns came back in 1999 to start week one of the Season. Kizer was the second since 1999. Weeden's first start was horrendous...and it might not be the worst one on this list. Weeden went 12/35 for 118 yards and four picks in a 17-16 loss against the Philadelphia Eagles.

Johnny Manziel: As I mention the worst "rookie" quarterback debut. Johnny Manziel takes the cake. We all know the situation the Browns were in 2014. Manziel's first start was in week 15 against the Cincinnati Bengals. Manziel went 10/18 for only 80 yards and two interceptions. This was probably the beginning of the end for Manziel in Cleveland...

Cody Kessler: Last year Cody Kessler debuted in week three of the season because of injuries to Robert Griffin III and Josh McCown. Kessler's situation was almost the exact same situation Colt McCoy was forced to make his debut. Kessler put up a winning effort but (unfortunately/fortunately) for the Browns sake lost his debut against the Miami Dolphins 30-24 in overtime. Kessler was 21/33 for 244 yards and only had one turnover which was a fumble.

Looking back at all these quarterbacks, Kizer's debut was basically par for the course. But Kizer's football abilities are far superior then any of these former Browns starters. It should be fun to watch Kizer develop going forward. And boy...and I glad the Browns "Got wiser...and Started Kizer".

Podcast 9/12/17: On The Browns & NFL Week 1, Indians Streak, Kobe, NBA Rankings & CFB Week 3

By Raven Williams, @nevaRWilliams

You can now download the latest episodes of "TripleThreatCLE.com's Podcast"!

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DOWNLOAD: On Browns & NFL Week 1, Ohio State's Loss, Indians Streak, Kobe & NBA Rankings (9/12/17)

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DOWNLOAD: On the Browns & NFL Week 1, College Football and special guest Zac Jackson (9/6/17)
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DOWNLOAD: On Browns Moves, Cavs/Celtics & College Football Kickoff (8/30/17)
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DOWNLOAD: On LeBron James, Browns Preseason, QB Rankings & More (8/16/17)
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DOWNLOAD: On Kyrie Irving and Sports Hall of Fames (8/2/17)
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DOWNLOAD: On Kyrie Irving's Trade Request, LeBron's Power & The Cavs (7/2417)
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DOWNLOAD: On Kirk Cousins, LeBron James, Unappreciated Players & Fast Food Chicken (7/19/17)
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DOWNLOAD: On NBA Free Agency, Chauncey Billups & Our 3-on-3 Teams (7/5/17)
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DOWNLOAD: On Chris Paul Trade, Phil Jackson, NBA Moves & Lavar Ball (6/28/17)
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2017 Episodes Of Triple Threat CLE Radio Show
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2016 Episodes of Triple Threat CLE Radio Show

Friday, September 8, 2017

Browns Preview 9/8/17: Pittsburgh Steelers @ Cleveland Browns

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

Week one is finally here! The Cleveland Browns open up the season hosting the division rival Pittsburgh Steelers. The Browns haven't won a opening day game since 2004 with Jeff Garcia at quarterback. Yes it's been that long...But eventually the drought will end...but not this year.

Browns Offense vs Steelers Defense

The Browns offense is going to be put to the test. Led by rookie quarterback DeShone Kizer, the Browns play calling should be a bit conservative to start out. Isaiah Crowell will get the majority of the carries Sunday. He has yet to have a game where he is given 20 carries in his career, and Sunday would be a great time for him to get it. The Browns can't give up on the running game because it will set up the couple deep shots down field the Browns are obviously going to take.

The Browns still have questions at receiver, even though they acquired three wideouts in the past week. Corey Coleman, Kenny Britt, Ricardo Lewis, and even Duke Johnson will see time lined up at wide receiver. Coleman and Kizer seem to have little bit of chemistry, as we seen in the third preseason game. Kenny Britt needs to step up and be the security blanket for Kizer. Duke Johnson is another weapon Kizer will utilize whether its checking down or in the slot.

Browns Defense vs Steelers Offense

The Browns will be without number one overall pick Myles Garrett for a few weeks. The Browns will need to get pressure on Big Ben and contain Le'Veon Bell. Bell didn't participate in the preseason and just signed his contract earlier this week. Stopping the running game will be a tall task of the Browns defensive line and linebackers Jamie Collins and Christian Kirksey. Jamar Taylor and Jason McCourty will lineup the most against Antonio Brown and Martavis Bryant. Brown is the best receiver in the league. Taylor and McCourty will have a handful Sunday especially if the pass rush struggles with Garrett out.

Five Guys to Watch

DeShone Kizer: This one is pretty obvious. The Browns are starting a rookie quarterback week one for the first time since Brandon Weeden in 2012. There is a lot of excitement with Kizer this could be the start to a very successful career for Kizer and Hue Jackson in Cleveland.

Jamie Collins: Collins will play almost every snap Sunday. Collins is a main staple on defense for the Browns. Whether is in base defense or in sub-packages. Collins is one of the few players who can cover Bell and the opposing tight end.

Sammie Coates: Coates probably won't see many snaps but when he's out there watch out for the deep ball down field. Coates is a deep threat and a speed demon. So when Kizer takes his shots deep its most likely going to be in Coates direction

Isaiah Crowell: Crowell should be the headline for the Browns offense. Crowell has been hyped up as a guy who is the "bell cow back" and should end the season with over 1000 yards in his contract year.

Corey Coleman: "Kizer to Coleman" is something that we all can get use to. Coleman is going to be the number one receiver going forward. Coleman and Coates will be matched up with former Browns cornerback Joe Haden, which will be exciting to watch as fans.

Weather Report:
Injury Report:

Betting Line: Pittsburgh -9

Final Prediction: 24-17

I don't think the Browns pull off the miracle. But I do think they cover. Kizer will play well and the overall the young Browns will be in the game all the way to the end. Go Browns!!!

Thursday, August 31, 2017

Podcast 8/30/17: On Browns Moves, Cavs/Celtics & College Football Kickoff

Monday, August 28, 2017

Cleveland Browns 2017 Season Preview: Quarterbacks

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

**PREVIOUS**
The Coaching Staff
The Running Backs
Offensive & Defensive Line

On Wednesday Head Coach Hue Jackson announced that rookie quarterback DeShone Kizer will start the the third preseason game and that "he (Kizer) is certainly positioning himself well to earn the starting job." So it looks like its going to be Kizer's team in week one...So what should we as fans expect from the quarterback position in 2017?

First things first, DeShone Kizer is a rookie and is the youngest quarterback in the NFL this season. And I think that's important to note before we all go crazy with expectations.

This team was built to handle a rookie quarterback. The Browns went into the off-season and rebuilt their offensive line with the signing of J.C. Tretter and Kevin Zeitler. Last year, the Browns gave up the most sacks in the league. Some of it was on the quarterbacks but a lot of it was because of the struggles of the offensive line. With the rebuild of the offensive line the Browns will be a run heavy team with Isaiah Crowell, Duke Johnson, and Matt Dayes.

Those two factors will take a majority of the pressure off of Kizer. He won't have to throw the ball 30 times a game to win. And its not like Kizer isn't going to make rookie mistakes, like we seen in the first two weeks of the preseason. Whether its poor decision making, fumbling the snap under center, or not sliding on scrambles these are all teachable moments. The way we judge Kizer shouldn't be wins and losses, but how he grows week-to-week into a more comfortable NFL quarterback.

DeShone Kizer gives the Browns the best opportunity to win games this season. Kizer's arm strength will keep defenses honest with the deep ball and prevent teams from stacking the line of scrimmage which will only help the running game. Kizer also has an ability to run the ball. He was a solid runner at Notre Dame and with his 6'4 235 frame gives the Browns another running threat in short yardage and red zone situations.

Its exciting to see a rookie quarterback start from day one, something we haven't seen since Brandon Weeden in 2012. Kizer earned this opportunity to start week one and has worked his way up from third string quarterback in the first week of the preseason to first string in the third week.

If Cody Kessler plays in 2017 it means Kizer got hurt. Its that simple. We know what we have in Kessler. He can come in, manage a game, and that's about it. He's not gonna make the big play but he's also not gonna make the big mistake.

Brock Osweiler's tenure with the Browns might be coming to an end real soon. He was given an opportunity to grab the starting job and he failed. If he's not traded by the end of the preseason I expect Brock to be released when the Browns cut down the roster to 53.