Browns Preview 10.28.16: New York Jets @ Cleveland Browns

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The (0-7) Cleveland Browns host the (2-5) New York Jets on this historical weekend. First, it will mark the first time the Cavaliers, Browns, and Indians all play on the same weekend. Second, the Browns will be celebrating the 1986 Browns team. The Jets won last week against the Ravens 24-16 in a game where Geno Smith started and tore his ACL. Which means the Jets will be starting Ryan Fitzpatrick once again. The Browns lost to the Bengals 31-17 and they lost another quarterback...Cody Kessler suffered a concussion and Kevin Hogan made his NFL debut. But this week it looks like Josh McCown will return from his non-throwing shoulder injury.


Browns Offense vs Jets Defense

The Browns game plan this week should be interesting. The Browns will need to keep running the ball. The Jets are ranked second in rush defense, only giving up 75 yards per game. But with McCown starting the Browns can not give up on running the ball, even if the Browns are struggling. Isaiah Crowell is prone to break off a big run and it keeps the defensive line at bay. Also it will be interesting if Hue Jackson spells Kevin Hogan at times to run the read option and throw a few passes.

McCown and the passing game has a chance to be successful, but only if McCown can get the ball out quickly. Gary Barnidge and Duke Johnson should get a ton of targets because McCown needs to get the ball out and not take many hits. Also the quick passes will help Terrelle Pryor get the ball in space and down field just to keep the defense honest.

The most important key for this week is to set up the pass with a consistent running game. They can't expect Josh McCown to win a game for them...heck they can't expect McCown to finish the game let alone win it. But running the ball will keep the our defense off the field and it will open up the passing game in certain spots.


Browns Defense vs Jets Offense

The Browns will need to get pressure on Fitzpatrick. This year he's been extremely turnover prone throwing 11 interceptions and even throwing six of them in one game against the Chiefs. Now its not like he doesn't have any weapons to throw to, Fitzpatrick has Brandon Marshall (who leads the team in targets), Quincy Enunwa (who is leading the team in catches), and Matt Forte out of the back field. The Browns should be able to bait Fitzpatrick into some throws which they will have to take advantage of. Just because Fitzpatrick lost his job last week doesn't mean he is going to stop playing his game, which is throwing the ball into tight spaces and forcing his receivers to make the big play.

The Browns rush defense needs to improve. Last week the Browns almost gave up 300 yards on the ground to Jeremy Hill and Gio Bernard. This week they go up against Matt Forte who has been up and down this season, but is coming off of a 100 yard game last week. If the Browns can't stop the run on early downs the Jets will have a field day, because it will prevent the Browns from being aggressive on "passing downs" with the blitz.

On Defense the most important key is to stop the run and force Fitzpatrick to beat them. Fitzpatrick's confidence could be a bit low considering he did not "earn" the starting job back. This has the making of the Miami Dolphins game from earlier this year. The Browns have an unknown at quarterback and will have to rely on the running game. And the Defense will have to force the quarterback into mistake and hope the offense takes advantage of the short field.


Five Guys to Watch

Josh McCown: This choice is pretty obvious. McCown is coming off of an injury, which we don't know how it will affect his play. If McCown can limit the hits he takes the Browns have a solid shot at getting the "W" this week.

Gary Barnidge: Barnidge is McCown's favorite target so again this choice is obvious. Barnidge is a threat in all levels of the field, but I expect him to get a ton of targets but for minimal yards. And that's okay as long as McCown doesn't take unnecessary hits.

Corner Back matching up with Marshall: As of right now, who is starting at cornerback is an unknown. Joe Haden is still nursing an injury and Jamar Taylor was just put on the injury report with a hurt groin. So...who is matched up with B. Marshall is my guy to watch, because Marshall is the top target for the Jets.

Danny Shelton: Shelton is the head of the rush defense and needs to set the tone for this week. Like stated above if the Browns can't stop the run the Jets should have this game in control.

Joe Thomas: Rumors are going around saying Joe Thomas is on the trading block even though Hue Jackson said the Browns are not trading him. But this could be Joe Thomas' last game in a Browns uniform since the trading deadline is this upcoming week. But on the field he needs to anchor the pass protection to keep McCown upright and protect his blind side from taking any direct hits on his non-throwing shoulder.

Injury Report
Weather Report
Betting line: Jets -3



Prediction: Jets 31-21

The Browns will fall to (0-8)...Josh McCown will get hurt...and next week Kevin Hogan will become the 27th different starting QB since 1999. Its just one of those years for the Browns as they "Strive for Imperfection". Could they win this week? Sure but with McCown not 100%, Fitzpatrick playing "pissed off" the odds aren't in their favor. But hey "Any given Sunday...Right?" Go Tribe Go Cavs!!

Browns Preview 10.7.16: New England Patriots @ Cleveland Browns

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The 3-1 New England Patriots travels to Cleveland to take on the 0-4 Browns. Both teams lost last week. The Patriots lost 16-0 to the Buffalo Bills at home. The Browns lost to the Redskins 31-20 in Washington. This week marks the return of Tom Brady, who was serving a four game suspension for "Deflate Gate".

Browns Offense vs Patriots Defense

The Browns running game is ranked first in the league with 142 yards per game. So we should expect the Browns to continue to run the ball since the Patriots are giving up 100 yards per game on the ground this year. Isaiah Crowell and Duke Johnson should get 30 carries between the two. The Browns need to control the time of possession. Like last week, the Bills ran for 134 yards on 32 carries but most importantly they controlled the ball for 36 mins.

The passing game with Kessler should continue to do what they do. A lot of slant routes with Terrelle Pryor, check downs passes to Duke Johnson, and find his "ole' reliable" target Gary Barnidge. The Patriots are going to bring presser at times and stack the box, so expect more passes down field. Kessler is getting more comfortable in the NFL and its his first home start of his young career, so Hue Jackson might bring out all the stops to upset the Patriots.

The last key for the Browns to win is to continue to convert on third down. Last week the Browns were 8/12 on third down and they have a 42% conversion percentage this year, which ranks 13th in the NFL. Converting third downs help the time of possession and obviously helps the Browns get into scoring position.

*Note John Greco is the starting center this week, Alvin Bailey is projected to start at right guard this week.


Browns Defense vs Patriots Offense

Tom Brady is back. Rob Gronkowski is close to 100%. And LeGarrette Blount is third in rushing yards just behind Isaiah Crowell.

Tom Brady is a question mark this week. Everyone expects him to throw for 500 yards and 4 touchdowns, but he hasn't played since the preseason. The Browns need to get pressure to Brady and knock him down so he doesn't get into a rhythm early. But Brady has all of his offense weapons this week: Gronk, Julian Edelman, and Martellus Bennett. This might be one of those games where the Browns need to force the Pats to run the ball.

LeGarrette Blount is a top rusher in the NFL and he's also one of the biggest backs in the league. Blount should get a ton of touches so the Pats can ease Brady into the game. Blount is averaging four yards per carry and he has four touchdowns. James White is the pass catching back for the Pats. White has 13 catches this year and is a really good change of pace back to spell Blount.

The Browns need to force the ground game and get pressure to Tom Brady. The Browns are going to have to pick their spots like always because of the youth of the defense.


Five Guys to Watch

Isaiah Crowell: Crowell should get an increase in carries this week. If he can go for at least 80 yards against the Patriots defense, when they know the run is coming, Crowell should be in the discussion as one of the better backs in the league. And like stated before, Crowell's success this week should keep the Browns in this game.

Gary Barnidge: Barnidge has caught 16/18 passes to him this year. This week he should get a ton of targets and have a breakout game this week since the Pats will try to take away the running game and Terrelle Pryor.

Carl Nassib (Hopefully): Nassib was back to practice this week. He is still questionable for this week but if Nassib can play limited snaps he will really help the pass rush with Ogbah and Cam Johnson.

Derrick Kindred: Kindred will be matched up against Gronk or Bennett. It could be a long day for him. But as long as he does his job Kendred shouldn't be exposed to badly this week. This match up personifies the term "tryout year".

Joe Haden: Haden will be up against Edelman this week. Haden has to lock down the lake this week and help force an interception. Haden will be up against not just Edelman but the tight ends too while in the redzone. As the superstar player on defense Haden needs to step up against the elite playmakers of the Patriots.




Injury Report 
Weather Report
Betting Line: Patriots -10.5

Prediction: Patriots 34 - Browns 21

This game can go either way. But expect the Browns to lose and the Patriots to cover the spread late. The Browns will play well like the first four weeks but they just can't pull it out. Another morale win for the Browns but another frustrating game to watch for the fans...at least the Tribe plays at 4pm.

Krunch Time With Katelin: Cleveland Browns Quarter Season Report

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE


The Browns are 0-4 with 12 games left. The first quarter of the season has been tough for the Browns. Just on offense they lost their two quarterbacks Robert Griffin III and Josh McCown, first round pick Corey Coleman, two centers Cam Erving and Austin Reiter. Then on defense they lost rookie pass rusher Carl Nassib, their starting defensive tackle John Hughes (who was released), and their secondary has been banged up. And lets not start on the kicking situation.


Browns Offense Ranks: 12th in yards per game, 25th in passing yards per game, 1st in rushing yards per game, 13th in third down percentage, and 26th in points per game.

Quarterbacks

Robert Griffin III is a lost cause because of injuries. He suffered a shoulder injuring at the end of week one and was put on IR with a possibility of return. Griffin didn't play bad during week one but he did look lost at times. Griffin was 12/26 for 190 yards and one interception. Fans and the coaching staff would love to see more of Griffin but with him being out for most of the season its highly unlikely he becomes the quarterback of the future.

Josh McCown along with Terrelle Pryor might be the MVP of the first quarter. McCown played one game which was against the Ravens in week two. He went 20/33 for 260 yards and two touchdowns and two interceptions. The guy played most of the game with a fracture in his non-throwing shoulder. Yeah the Browns ended up losing the game, but with McCown under center the offense played extremely well. Even with the shoulder injury, McCown is projected to be back some time in the middle of the year.

Cody Kessler started week three and four. The guy did exactly what the Browns need him to do, and that is not lose the game. Kessler in the two games went 49/73 for 467 yards, one touchdown and one interception. The offense with Kessler has been run heavy, and a ton of short passes. What's interesting about Kessler is that he has almost the exact same stats as Carson Wentz through their first two games.

Kessler: 49/73, 467 yards, 1 touchdowns and 1 interception
Wentz: 43/71, 468 yards, 3 touchdowns and zero interceptions

Quarterbacks Grade: B-


Running Backs

Isaiah Crowell is another bright spot on this team. Crowell is second in the NFL in rushing yards. Crowell is averaging 6.5 yards per carry. (61 carries/394 yards) and three touchdowns including a 85 yard run against the Ravens. Another positive about Crowell is his ability to hold onto the ball. He has yet to fumble this year and hasn't had a fumble since his rookie year in 2014. Crowell like stated in previous articles is the "Jeremy Hill" of Hue Jackson's offense. Also he is projected to have just under 1600 yards on the ground.  

Duke Johnson, the "Gio Bernard" of Hue Jackson's offense, is a playmaker. He's only gotten 24 carries but he's got 124 yards on the ground for 6.2 yards per carry. Where Johnson does his most damage is in the passing game. Johnson has 18 catches, which is second behind Terrelle Pryor, for 115 yards. Not really sure if Duke Johnson will get an increase in carries with Isaiah Crowell balling out, but Duke has an important job in this offense.

Running Backs Grade: A


Wide Receivers

Terrelle Pryor looks like a NFL wide receiver. Pryor is first on the team in catches (19) and receiving yards (290). In week three Pryor had eight catches for 144 yards, he ran for 21 yards and a touchdown, and threw for 35 yards on 3/5 passes. Pryor at 6'4 is a matchup nightmare. He's played really well in week four catching his first career touchdown pass against Josh Norman.

Corey Coleman unfortunately got hurt in practice after having a breakout game in week two. Against the Ravens, Coleman had five catches for 104 yards and two touchdowns (which ranks first on the team). Coleman is expected to be back by mid-season after breaking a bone in his hand. Its unfortunate that he got hurt but he did show he can play in this league.

Other Receivers like Andrew Hawkins and Ricardo Lewis have done an okay job trying to replace Coleman. Its extremely hard to judge these other receivers since the offense changed with Cody Kessler under center.

Wide Receiver Grade: B-


Tight End

Gary Barnidge has been underwhelming but when he's been thrown too he's delivered. Barnidge has 16 catches on 18 targets, 160 yards, 10 first downs, and a two point conversion. Barnidge hasn't been productive but he's been reliable for rookie quarterback Cody Kessler. What's odd about Barnidge is that week one he didn't have a catch. Its odd because he was projected to be a target for Robert Griffin III and he was coming off a season where he caught 79 passes for just over 1000 yards and nine touchdowns.

The other tight end Randall Telfer is mostly used as an extra blocker. He was targeted once and doesn't have a catch yet this year.

Tight End Grade: C+


Offensive Line

The Offensive line has been solid this year even though they have used three different starting centers in four weeks. The Browns are ranked first in the run game and its not just because of Isaiah Crowell. Guys like John Greco and Joel Bitonio have done a fantastic job clearing up space in the middle. Joe Thomas is the G.O.A.T. and we all know this. He's the anchor of this offensive line and the guy is unbelievable. The only weak spot seems to be right tackle with Austin Pasztor. Pasztor against the Miami Dolphins had six penalties for over 70 yards loss. Now the pass blocking has been average since the group has given up 11 sacks in four games which is tied for seventh most. Which caused Josh McCown's shoulder injury. Obviously sacks happen and with the constant changes its hard to get a rhythm but group has been solid overall.

Offensive Line Grade: B


Defense Ranks: 22nd in opponents total yards per game, 19th in opponents third down percentage, 16th in opponents passing yards per game, and 24th in opponents rushing yards per game.


Defensive line

Guys like Carl Nassib, Danny Shelton and Jamie Meder are really growing. Nassib broke his hand after a promising first week but is projected to practice and might play in week five. Guys like Danny Shelton and Jamie Meder are playing really well. Shelton doesn't look lost like like year and isn't getting out played by Meder who was an undrafted free agent. Meder and Shelton are starting in the Browns 3-4 along side of Xavier Cooper. Meder took over for John Hughes who started week one but was scratched in week two and then released. The Browns went really young on the defensive line which is most likely the reason for the higher opp. rushing yards per game.

Defensive Line Grade: C+


Linebackers

The Browns linebackers are really solid. The four starting linebackers are Demario Davis, Christian Kirksey, on the inside and rookies Emmanual Ogbah and Joe Schobert on the outside. Davis and Kirksey are really good in pass coverage. Kirksey ranks second on the team in total tacks (29) and Davis ranks third (25). Ogbah and Schobert doesn't have a sack yet but they have a couple pass deflections. Pass rush wise the Browns are lacking with only six sacks, but Cody Lemonier and Cam Johnson have three sacks and two forced fumbles between them. Injuries have also hit the linebacker position in last years second round pick Nate Orchard being placed on the IR with a ankle injury.

Linebacker Grade: B-


Defensive Backs

Joe Haden had a terrible game in week one, but redeemed himself in week two against the Ravens. Joe Haden locked up the Ravens top guy and had two interceptions.  The injury bug hit Haden which made him miss week three against the Dolphins. Haden came back in week four and played okay while still nursing his groin injury.

Jamar Taylor, who is a former second round pick of Miami, has really played well. He has reinvigorated his career in Cleveland. He has 16 tackles and two interceptions. Taylor has been the constant at corner with the injuries of Joe Haden and Tramon Williams. Taylor seems to be one of those guys that could be here in Cleveland long term. The Browns really seem to like him and again he's flourished in his opportunity.

Jordan Poyer is first on the team in tackles with 31. He's an average free safety who really hasn't impressed. He's below average in the passing game which is why he has a lot for tackles. This is the first time Poyer is the full-time starter, but through four week free safety is a position of weakness on this team.

Shifting to the strong safety position, Derrick Kendred looks like a player. He is fourth on the team with 20 tackles and he's played over 80% of the snaps on defense which is crazy for a fourth round rookie. But with Ibraheim Campbell out Kendred has stepped up and shown a lot of progress through the first four weeks.

Other DBs:  Briean Boddy-Calhoun played really well considering he was an undrafted rookie and was a late pick up for the Browns. Boddy-Calhoun has an interception which he returned for a touchdown against Miami and he also has a sack which was against the Redskins. Tramon Williams on the other hand was hit with the injury bug in week three which caused him to miss week four against Washington. Williams struggled against Jordan Matthews and Steve Smith Sr and seemed to be slow at times. But Williams is the lone vet on the defense along side Joe Haden.

Defensive Backs Grade: B


Special Teams

The Special Teams have been awful. The Kicking game with Cody Parkey and Patrick Murray have been terrible. Murray had two kicks blocked in week two which ended up being the difference in the game (a blocked PAT that was returned for two points and a blocked field goal). And Cody Parkey who missed three field goals in week three against Miami including a game winning field goal at the end of regulation.

But it not just the Kicking game that has struggled, the punt return game has been equally as bad. The Browns only have five punt returns for 33 yards and Duke Johnson has one of them for 18 yards. The Browns need to find a punt returner and stick with him. Jordan Poyer is the only guy to have more than one punt return. As of right now the Browns just have a punt catcher not a returner.

As for Punter Britton Colquitt has done a fine job as punter. He's a seven year pro and was part of the Super Bowl winning Denver Broncos last year. Colquitt only has one touchback. He has an average of 47 yards with a long of 59 yards. Not much else to say about Colquitt, the guy is a solid punter.

Special Teams Grade: D


Coaching

Hue Jackson has done an amazing job the first four weeks. The team is in every game and looks prepared. Jackson's play calling seemed to be a bit pass heavy but other than that there really isn't much to complain about. He made this offense competitive even thought they are on their third quarterback. Hue Jackson gets the most out of his players and in a tryout year of sorts that's all you can hope for. Also guys want to play for him you can see how he reaches players and they trust him.

Ray Horton is basically doing the same as Hue but on the defensive side of the ball. Horton has put these guys in a position to win and be successful. He's been aggressive at times which is his MO but not as much because of the injuries to Joe Haden and Tramon Williams.

Coaching Grade: A

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.

Leadoff with Lee 12.23.15 #Browns #ProBowl #Indians #Akron #Toledo

By @cleeverizon

Browns left tackle Joe Thomas and center Alex Mack were selected to the NFL Pro Bowl. For Thomas, this will be his 9th selection to the annual game and 3rd time for Mack. Special teamer Johnson Bademosi, tight end Gary Barnidge and wide receiver Travis Benjamin were selected as alternates. Pro Bowl players are voted in by players, coaches and fans, with each groups ballot counting for 1/3 of the votes.

In a All-Star game many consider to be tag football, the Pro Bowl has some rule differences from a traditional NFL game.

-Field Goal Post width will be 14-feet, down from 18.6-feet from the regular season
-PATs will be from the 15-yard line, making the kick 33-yards long.
-2 timeouts per quarter
-2 minute warning every quarter
-Change of Possession at the end of each quarter. Just to name a few. For the complete Pro Bowl roster click HERE.

- The Indians signed Ross Detwiler to a minor league deal with a spring training invite. The team also released Chris Johnson, but still owe him $17.5M. Johnson is scheduled to make $7.5M in 2016 and $9M in 2017 and the Tribe will be on the hook for his $1M buyout in 2018 with a contract worth $10M.

Ross Detwiler is a 29-year-old southpaw who posted a 7.25 ERA (6.12 FIP) in 41 appearances between the Texas Rangers and Atlanta Braves in 2015. In 58.1 combined innings, Detwiler struck out 41, walked 36 and allowed 10 home runs. Left-handed pitchers Tom Gorzelanny and Joe Thatcher were also recently signed to Minor League deals with spring training invites by the Tribe.

- The Akron Zips defeated Utah State for their 1st bowl win in school history with a 23-21 victory in the Idaho Potato Bowl.

- Another Ohio team won a bowl game yesterday, as the Toledo Rockets won the Boca Raton Bowl over Temple, 32-17. It's the 1st time since 1969-71 Toledo has won a bowl in consecutive seasons.

- After announcing his retirement Monday, Ohio native Charles Woodson was named to his 9th Pro Bowl at the age 39. Woodson was a three-time, first-team All-Pro at cornerback for the Packers and Raiders. Named to the All-2000s Team by the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Woodson was named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year with the in 2009 season which featured nine interceptions and three touchdowns. He is also sixth on the all time interceptions list with 65 and is tied for the most career defensive touchdowns with 13.

Leadoff with Lee 12.11.15 #GaryBarnidge #Browns #Madden #UFC200

By @cleeverizon

Hard work pays off!

Prior to this season, Browns tight end Gary Barnidge totaled 44 catches for 603 yards & 3 TDs in 7 years.

Now, this season he has 60 receptions for 817 yards & 7 TDs and a new contract. Barnidge and the Browns agreed to a 3-year, $12M contract extension. Along with the new deal, Barnidge also recently won the teams' Walter Payton Man of the Year award for his off the field charity work and contributions.

- Wide receiver Travis Benjamin also said his agent and the Browns are about 75-80% close to a contract extension. This season Benjamin current makes $779K.  

- UFC President Dana White said the Ronda Rousey/Holly Holm rematch will be at UFC 200 on July 9, 2016.

In the mean time, it's possible Holm will have a fight before she meets Rousey with number one contender 16-0 Alexis Davis.

-Ohio State defensive lineman Adolphus Washington cited by Columbus police for solicitation, which is a first degree misdemeanor. He is due in court December 17th. Here is the apologetic statement he issued yesterday:

- Former Oakland Raiders coach and broadcaster John Madden recently underwent open-heart surgery, the NFL announced Thursday. The Pro Football Hall of Famer is currently resting in his home after being released from the hospital on Wednesday. The open-heart surgery was required in order to repair blockages. Madden, 79, is no longer broadcasting or coaching, but is still involved in the NFL's efforts to enhance the game. He is a co-chair with Ronnie Lott on the NFL Player Safety Advisory Panel and is chair of the Coaches Subcommittee to the Competition Committee.

- In other Raiders news, wide out Michael Crabtree signed a 4 year, $35M contract extension with the team, including $19M guaranteed. Crabtree will receive an average annual salary of $8.75M. In 2015, Crabtree will earn a base salary of $1.M a signing bonus of $1.3M a roster bonus of $250K and a workout bonus of $250K.

#Browns Preview 10.23.15: Cleveland Browns @ St. Louis #Rams

By @mrgroce

Fresh off a disappointing 26-23 loss to the Denver Broncos, the Cleveland Browns travel to St.Louis to take on the Rams who are coming off of their bye week. The Browns found every way possible to lose this game and midway through overtime accomplished their mission. Questionable coaching decisions, bad defense, and terrible QB play eventually killed the Browns chances of pulling off one of the biggest upsets of the young season. Peyton Manning struggled for most of the game, but Denver realized they were facing the worst run defense in the NFL and decided to hand the ball off for the rest of the overtime and finished the Browns off with a field goal. 

That same run defense must now prepare to face one of the newest studs in the league, running back Todd Gurley. I'm a little biased here because Gurley was my favorite player coming out of college in this year's draft. After missing all of training camp, preseason and the first two games of the year Gurley has gained over 300 yards in the two games he has started this season. The Browns coaching staff has heard all season long how bad the run D is, so I'm sure they have been stressing to the players to not allow themselves to get embarrassed by a rookie. The Rams only average 309 yards per game and have the second worst passing attack gaining only 183 receiving yards per game. QB Nick Foles has one of the worst passing ratings in the league only registering a lowly 77.6 per game. WR Tavon Austin is questionable for this week's game and WR Kenny Britt only has 183 yards all season. Stopping the run seems to be the recipe for victory for the Browns this week. 

Browns QB Josh McCown has shown why he's not a franchise quarterback while at the same time allowing us to see how he has stayed in the league for 12 years. When he's on he hits everything in sight, but when he's off he is absolutely terrible. The Rams have one of the top defensive lines in football. They have 19 sacks in only five games. WR Travis Benjamin and TE Gary Barnidge had big games last week and seem to be the most targeted options for McCown. If Cleveland could get a consistent run attack this offense could be dare I say, dangerous. Before the season started the number one question Browns fans asked were "where will the points come from"? Who would've imagined the Browns would be the 6th best scoring team in the NFL averaging 23 points per game? Running back Robert Turbin who made his Browns debut carried the ball ten times for 27 yards. Isaiah Crowell had 32 yards rushing and Duke Johnson finished with 38 yards rushing. The offensive line hasn't played the way everyone expected this year, but I can't blame them for the run game being this dismal. It's time for one of the three backs to step up and take over the lead rusher position and carry this offense on their back. 

The Rams have beaten the Seahawks and Cardinals, but have lost to the Redskins and Steelers (minus Ben). Seems like they play to the level of their competition which is great news for the Browns. Two average teams with average quarterbacks means this one will come down to turnovers and who commits fewer untimely penalties. If I was to use that logic I'd have to go with the Rams, but Cleveland knows that a loss here which would drop them to 2-5 will pretty much end their season. That level of desperation has me thinking that the Browns will find a way to pull this one out 27-17. 


What: Cleveland Browns (2-4) at St.Louis Rams (2-3)
When: Sunday Oct. 25 1:00 PM
Where: Edward Jones Dome St.Louis
TV/Radio: CBS, WKNR 850 Cleveland, WKRK 92.3 The Fan, WNCX 98.5

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?

On The Mark 9.28.15: #Browns v #Raiders Recap

McCown starts slow, defense doesn't start at all in 27-20 embarrassing loss to the Raiders
By @MarkW2112

When Josh McCown was named starter after being cleared to play after a concussion suffered against the Buffalo Bills, Mike Pettine said that McCown gave the Browns the best chance to win.  Sadly for Pettine, that idea blew up in his face.  The Browns lost 27-20 to the Oakland Raiders at First Energy Stadium due to McCown slow start and interception at the end of the game to Charles Woodson.  In between, McCown, who was 28 of 49 for 341 yards and 2 touchdowns, missed his receivers many times and either over threw or under threw several long balls to Travis Benjamin, including on the game ending interception.  The running game once again was non existent with Isaiah Crowell and Duke Johnson being non-factors. 

But as bad as the offense was, it was the defense that was a true nightmare.  The secondary, which was supposed to be one of the best in the NFL, were sliced and diced by Derek Carr, who now has Amari Cooper to do a lot of damage against any NFL defense.  Carr ended the day 20 of 32 for 314 yards and 2 touchdowns.  He was barely touched at all day as the Browns did not sack him.  Cooper was spectacular, with 134 yards receiving yards on 8 catches.  With the exception of a fumble, the Browns had no answers for him.  Latavius Murray slashed through the Browns porous run defense for 139 yards and 1 touchdown.

My take:  The Browns are a disaster once again.  Can't stop the run on defense, can't run on offense.  Josh McCown was rusty to start the game but was able to find a rhythm near the end.  That said, he was sacked 5 times, and missed wide open receivers, namely Travis Benjamin.  It proved that perhaps Mike Pettine out thought himself once more by starting McCown over Johnny Manziel.  But what's really disturbing is the defense.  The Browns invested a ton of money and draft picks in to the defense and they still can't stop the run and still get beat on pass protection.  This is a nightmare scenario for both Pettine and Ray Farmer, who would appear to be on a very tight leash with Jimmy Haslam.  It appears that, once again, the Browns will have another losing season and have fans longing for the good old days.

Player of the game: Derek Carr, who was suburb against the Browns defense.

Play of the game:  Brian Hartline, making another spectacular catch, this time with his legs.

Turning point:  Josh McCown's interception to Charles Woodson to end the game when it looked like they could tie it.

Next game:  In San Diego against the Chargers