TRIPLE THREAT CLE: Josh McCown

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Wednesday, January 11, 2017

Krunch Time With Katelin: Five Stories and Thoughts from the 2016 Cleveland Browns

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

2016 was tough year for the Browns. A number of different quarterbacks, a ton of injuries, and the lack of wins resulting in the number one overall pick in the upcoming draft. We knew this past season was going to be rough and the start of a tear-down rebuild, but not many expected the Browns to end up 1-15 at seasons end. With 1-15 there aren't a lot of stories to tell but here are five stories that will help recap this 2016 season.

5. Let's start with the number of quarterbacks this past season. Not counting Terrelle Pryor and Duke Johnson who threw passes this season, the Browns had five different quarterbacks lineup under center for them. Cody Kessler, Josh McCown, and Robert Griffin III started this past season with Kevin Hogan and Charlie Whitehurst taking snaps in relief of Cody Kessler. The quarterback problems started week one when RGIII broke a bone in his shoulder. Then, in week two, McCown ended up breaking his collar bone which sidelined him for a month and a half. Cody Kessler didn't play terrible for a rookie quarterback but he didn't do enough to keep the job for the entire season. RGIII ended up started the last four weeks and didn't help solidify anything for the 2017 season.

4. Jamie Collins, one of the best linebackers in the NFL, got traded from the New England Patriots to Cleveland. The Browns gave up a third round pick for his services. After the Browns traded for Collins it was weird to see on the field. Everyone could tell how good he was and at some points he seemed frustrated with the lack of talent around him. It was also weird to hear the speculation of why Collins was traded out of New England. Whether it was locker room stuff or him being a free agent in 2017...it will hopefully help the Browns going forward.

3. Even though the year was tough a number of players stepped up and made a giant leap. Guys like Christian Kirksey, Jamar Taylor, Danny Shelton and Isaiah Crowell improved immensely because of the opportunity given. Danny Shelton played like a top tier nose tackle. He was constantly disrupting the flow of the opposing offensive line even if statistically the Browns defense didn't play well. Christian Kirksey ranked 6th in total tackles with 143. The past two years he was spelling Karlos Dansby but this year he was all over and was a three down player. He improved on his run defense and has always been a solid in pass coverage. Jamar Taylor was traded to Cleveland from Miami for a handful of spots...in the seventh round of the 2016 draft.

Taylor was a former second round pick who seemed to be a bust for Miami. For his growth this past season the Browns ended up rewarding him with a 3yr/$15 million extension. And finally Isaiah Crowell...who ended up 48 rushing yards short of 1000 for the season. The First few weeks of the season Crowell was lighting it up and was in the top 5 in rushing yards. Because of injuries at offensive line Crowell's 1000 yard season dream came up short, but it was positive in the sense of how the Browns found their starting running back going forward.

2. Terrelle Pryor's transition from quarterback to wide receiver was amazing to see...even if former and opposing players criticized him for being emotional on the field. Its not that people didn't think he could do it, he's a freak athlete, but if he was going to become selfish and become a "diva" on and off the field. While off the field some took their shots at him on the field he played extremely well. 77 catches 1007 yards and four touchdowns in his first full season at receiver is pretty dang good. Hell fans wanted the Browns to sign Pryor to an extension after his crazy game in Miami where he caught eight passes for 144 yards, ran for 21 yards and a touchdown...and threw the ball for 35 yards on 3/5 passing. It will be interesting to see if Pryor has a future in the Browns and Orange but even if he doesn't he was one of (if not the main reason) people still tuned in on Sundays to watch the Browns.

1. The Browns only winning one game this season has to be the number one story. Whether it was speculation Hue Jackson and company were going to get fired at the end of the season...which turned out to be kinda true. Or the number of odd ways the Browns found themselves on the short end of the win column. Like when The Browns stormed to a 20-2 lead against the Ravens and ended up losing 25-20 because of a blocked PAT that was returned for a touchdown and a missed field goal. (and lets not forget about the stupid flag on Terrelle Pryor when he went to give the official the ball) Or when Cody Parkey missed three field goals in one game including a potential game winner, And the Duke Johnson fumble that he obviously recovered but the lady official completely messed up calling a Redskins recovery when Johnson had the ball five yards behind her. And that all happened in consecutive weeks...And the 0-16 parade which divided Browns fans on many social media platforms. Heck, it ended up having one of Cleveland's top radio personalities threatening to run over people who were participating in the parade.(I guess anything for ratings). But All in all the Browns won a game and ten's of thousands of dollars were donated to the Cleveland Food Bank because of the fan funded 0-16 parade and the contributions from the Cleveland Browns and others.

This season was a trip. Remembering all these stories and seeing how social media was during this headache of a season was something to remember...if people didn't pay that close of attention because of the Indians playoff success or the Ohio State University during their thing on Saturday's. But the "try-out year" as I coined in my season preview was a success. I think the Browns have a good idea of were their weaknesses are and now have the tools to fix this team the correct way. And that starts with making smart signing during free agency with the large amount of cap room they have and the number one overall pick in April's draft.

Monday, November 28, 2016

Browns Recap 11.28.16: New York Giants @ Cleveland Browns

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The Cleveland Browns are now 0-12 after losing to the Giants 27-13. This game was an odd game. The defense played well for most of the game but seemed to have run out of gas at the end. But the offense struggled all game only managing 13 points, turning the ball over three times and allowing Josh McCown to be sacked seven times.

Browns Offense

The Browns out-gained the Giants 343 yards to 296 and won the time of possession by almost eight minutes, but the three turnovers really hurt the Browns. Two of the three turnovers resulted in touchdowns for the Giants including a fumble that was returned for a touchdown by Jason Pierre-Paul.

Josh McCown played like he usually does. Keeps the team in the game but makes a mistake at an important moment. McCown was 25/43 for 322 yards, a touchdown, and two fumbles (including the one that was returned for a score.) That fumble was a rally killer considering a few plays before that McCown found Terrelle Pryor deep for 54 yards.

The running game was held to 58 yards on 21 carries. Isaiah Crowell and Duke Johnson couldn't get anything going, both only averaged 2.8 yards per carry. But both did play well in the passing game. Crowell had six catches for 47 yards and Johnson had three catches for 26 yards. *Crowell had a fumble which resulted in the other score. That was Crowell's first fumble since 2014.

The passing game was average. It seemed like the Browns wideouts couldn't get separation for the Giants DBs. Terrelle Pryor was the Browns leading receiver with six catches for 131 yards. *Pryor's third 100+ yards game this year. Also first Browns player to have five + catches in five straight games since Kevin Johnson. Outside of Pryor the passing game was headlined by rookies. Corey Coleman and Seth DeValve had three catches each. And one of Coleman's receptions was a 21-yard catch for a touchdown. Rashard "Hollywood" Higgins caught two passes for 34 yards.

The offense struggled but it was nice to see the rookies play well and show some growth. Terrelle Pryor was the offensive MVP for the Browns today. The guy show a will to win and does as much as he can to keep this team in games offensively.

Defense

The defense didn't play bad but they couldn't force any turnovers. (The one turnover by the Giants was on special teams) Eli Manning only threw for 194 yards on 15/27 passing, but he did throw three touchdowns. Two of them were to Odell Beckham Jr. who had six catches for 96 yards. Outside of Beckham the Giants leading receiver was Victor Cruz who had a catch for 37 yards. Three guys had two catches each which was is tied for the team lead. The Giants running game was solid totaling 104 yards on 27 carries. Rashad Jennings was the leading rusher with 55 yards on 15 rushes.

Today the young guys showed up for the Browns, not just on offense but defensively too. Christian Kirksey was all over the field racking up 11 tackles including one tackle for a loss. Briean Boddy-Calhoun played extremely well too. Matching up against Victor Cruz and Rodger Lewis most of the game. Boddy-Calhoun had four tackles including one for a loss and two pass deflections. Danny Shelton is another young defensive player who played extremely well. He set the line of scrimmage really well, played the run game well, and overall set a great tone for this game.

Special Teams got lucky twice. Beckham Jr. had two punt returns returned for big yardage, including one that was returned for a touchdown, but they were cancelled out by flags on the play. Other than that the coverage team didn't play that well. Yes, they recovered a fumble but it was because of the returner Bobby Rainey.

Overall Thoughts

The Browns played well enough to win this game but they came up just short, once again. It will be interesting to see how they play when Robert Griffin III gets back under center. But the rookies and young guys played really well and it should be something they can build upon going into the bye-week and the stretch run.

Most Valuable Brown: Two players get the MVB this week. Terrelle Pryor and Christian Kirksey. Both have shown immense growth from the beginning of the year and this game showed off their growth. Kirksey with 11 tackles and Pryor with his third 100+ yard game of the year. Both are making an argument to be named pro-bowlers at their respected positions.

Monday, November 21, 2016

Browns Recap 11.21.16: Pittsburgh Steelers @ Cleveland Browns

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The Browns fall to 0-11 after their 24-9 loss to the Steelers. This game was personification of the 2016 Cleveland Browns and four plays proved that. The first was the Browns punting on 4&33 and then two penalties at the end of the first half (which would have ended the half at 6-0) allowing the Steelers to take a 14-0 lead into the locker room. Then in the second half the quarterback Cody Kessler suffered a concussion and Josh McCown had to take over. Each quarterback suffered four sacks and were hit hard multiple times.

The First Half:

Defensively the Browns played a "bend, but don't break defense". The Steelers completely dominated the time of possession having the ball for just over 20 minutes. The Steelers had 217 total yards on 41 plays. 132 of the 217 yards were through the air with Le'Veon Bell as the Steelers leading receiver with seven catches for 50 yards. Bell also carried the ball 16 times for 85 yards and a touchdown (which was the result of the two penalties at the end of the half). The Steelers were also 4/7 on third down and 1/1 on fourth. Roethlisberger was 18/25 for 132 yards.

The Browns were horrible offensively only managing 50 total yards. Kessler was 3/7 for 60 yards and one interception, but what really killed this team was Kessler being sacked three times for a total of 29 yards. The running game didn't do anything. 19 rushing yards on seven carries. Isaiah Crowell had five carries for nine yards and Duke Johnson had two carries for 10. The leading receiver was Terrelle Pryor with one catch for 30 yards. Andrew Hawkins had a catch for 28 yards and rookie Corey Coleman had a catch for four yards, and he also had two dropped catches.

The Second Half:

The defense played well holding the Steelers to 96 total yards in the second half. Bell had 66 of the 96 yards. 61 on the ground and five through the air. Bell ended the game with 146 yards on the ground on 28 carries and a touchdown. And eight catches for 55 yards. Roethlisberger ended his day with 167 yards on 23/36 passing. Antonio Brown tied Bell as the game leader in catches with eight and had the team lead in receiving yards with 76.

The Browns leading tacklers were Christian Kirksey with nine, Jamie Collins with eight, and Demario Davis with seven.

Offensively the Browns were the Browns. They couldn't run the ball at all and their quarterback got hurt. Kessler suffered a concussion and McCown came in. McCown played like he always does. 118 yards on 14/27 passing and throwing the Browns only touchdown of the day. A 14 yard pass to tight end Gary Barnidge. Two plays back-to-back really hurt the Browns. After getting the ball while down 17-9 McCown threw a ball over the middle to Terrelle Pryor. Pryor didn't catch it because it was overthrown but suffered a big hit and was taken off of the field. The next play while scrabbling, McCown fumbled the ball into the end zone and it was recovered by the Steelers for a touchdown. So like stated before..."McCown played like he always does". Terrelle Pryor ended his day with five catches for 97 yards, Duke Johnson had three catches in the second half for 46 yards, and ended his day with 4 catches for 39 yards.

The offensive line was terrible all game. They couldn't get a push in the running game resulting in 33 yards on 13 carries and the Steelers having eight sacks for 70 yards.

Overall Thoughts:

These games are hard to watch, but this team isn't quitting and that says a lot. It says a lot about the coaching of Hue Jackson and his staff. He is trying to get as much as he can with what he has. We all knew this year was going to be tough but no one thought it was going to be this tough. Its hard to win when you play six different players at quarterback, numerous offensive line combinations, and injuries on both sides of the ball.

This game also showed me that Kessler isn't going to be our starting quarterback for the future...and that is okay. Kessler seems to hesitant to get the ball out. Yes its a combination of the lack of play-makers and offensive line but its becoming obvious that the Browns will draft their future quarterback in April. Also expect Robert Griffin III to start either this week against the Giants (if he's cleared) or week 14 vs the Bengals and to play for the reminder of the season.

Most Valuable Brown (MVB): Terrelle Pryor continues to play well with a murky quarterback situation. He is proving he can be a top-level receiver and should get paid handsomely this off-season whether its in Cleveland or not.

Friday, November 11, 2016

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.

Friday, November 4, 2016

Browns Preview 11.4.16: Dallas Cowboys @ Cleveland Browns

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The (6-1) Dallas Cowboys travel to Cleveland to take on the (0-8) Browns. Last week the Cowboys beat the Eagles 29-23 in overtime. The Browns lost 31-28 last week to the Jets. The Browns will have Corey Coleman back for this week. And Jamie Collins is expected to make his Browns debut.

Browns Offense vs Cowboys Defense

The Browns are expected to start Cody Kessler this week. Last week, the starter was a returning Josh McCown, who threw for 341 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions. The Cowboys are ranked 18th in pass defense and the Browns should have some success. In week two with McCown, Corey Coleman caught five passes for 104 yards and two touchdowns. Last week, Pryor caught six passes for 101 yards. With a complete passing game along with guys like Barnidge, Johnson, and Hawkins the Browns will have to score a ton of points to keep it close.

With a struggling running game, the Browns might be forced to throw the ball a ton, The Browns are going to have run the ball some, but don't expect a lot of carries. Duke Johnson should get a ton of snaps because of his ability to catch the ball out of the back field, and hopefully keep the Dallas defense honest at times.

To win this game, whether its Cody Kessler or Josh McCown, will have to take care of the football. His four interceptions this year, is one of the main reasons the Browns lost his two starts. If McCown can just play smart and not force anything, he can keep them in this game.

Browns Defense vs Cowboys Offense

Defensively the Browns are going to struggle. They give up the second most yards on the ground per game and Ezekiel Elliott is the number one rusher in the league. All Dallas needs to do this week is hand the ball off to Elliott. It might be that easy for Dallas this week. As long as Elliott keeps hold of the ball, he should have a huge game on the ground...Jamie Collins should help a little, but he's only 1/11 guys on the field.

Dallas should have a good game in the passing game. The Browns struggle with covering the slot receiver and tight end, and Dak Prescott's main targets are Cole Beasley and Jason Witten. They have 67 catches between them and four touchdowns. Also running back Zeke Elliott is really good at catching the ball out of the backfield and is already one of the best pass protecting running backs in the league.

The Browns will need to force turnovers and can't give up dumb plays. If the Browns can force a couple of turnovers then maybe and stop the Dallas defense on third and long then maybe the Browns can pull off the win. It may seem like a trap game for Dallas but with rookies Dak Prescott and Elliott along with vets like Dez Bryant and Jason Witten that would seem unlikely.

Five Guys to Watch

Corey Coleman: First game back since week two, He had success with McCown at quarterback and with the threat of Pryor...it should open up an opportunity for him. Also this is a good time for him to knock the dust off and start the second half of the season refreshed.

Duke Johnson: Johnson should get most of the snaps this week. He is a threat in the passing game and will need some carries to open up the passing game. Also with McCown needing to play it safe, Johnson is the main target for check down passes.

Jamie Collins: Unsure how much he will play, but he's already the Browns best player on defense. Its that simple.

Christian Kirksey: Kirksey has grown into a really solid linebacker. He will need to have a big game in the run defense to help stop Zeke from running wild.

Ray Horton: The defensively play-calling will determine how this game goes. Will the Browns sell out on the run and force Prescott to beat them or be more balanced.

Injury Report
Weather:
Betting Line: Dallas -7

Predictions

Dallas 35 - Browns 17

Browns fall to 0-9 and are getting closer to their quest for imperfection. The Browns will have no answer for Dallas' running game this week. But if you have either Pryor or Coleman on your fantasy team it might be good to start them because they will get a lot of targets and should get you some points in garbage time. Let's just hope the Browns stay healthy this week since the Browns have a Thursday night game in Baltimore next week.

Monday, October 31, 2016

Browns Recap 10.31.16: New York Jets @ Cleveland Browns

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The Browns fall to 0-8 this year after losing 31-28 against the New York Jets. This game was a tale of two halves.The first where the Browns play really well and look to have the game in control somewhat. And the second half, where they play like a third strings in the preseason. But that's the story of the 2016 Cleveland Browns.

First Half

The Browns played an extremely well-rounded first half leading 20-7.

Offensively the Browns were really good in the passing game. Josh McCown was 16/27 for 228 yards and a touchdown. Terrelle Pryor had six catches for 101 yards and Andrew Hawkins had four catches and one of them was a touchdown. The only down side of the passing game in the first half was Ricardo Lewis who dropped two passes. The offensive line was solid, only allowing one sack and four QB hits. Surprisingly the Browns struggled in the run game. Isaiah Crowell has six carries for only nine yards but did run in a touchdown. Duke Johnson has been a real threat in all areas, he has three catches for 38 yards and three rushes for 29 yards while also returning punts.

Defensively they've had a few problems. Tackling was the main one. They allowed Jets running back Bilal Powell to score a 35 yard touchdown on third and long. Powell broke a few tackles to get into the endzone. Fitzpatrick and the passing game was terrible. He was 3/14 for only 30 yards. A combination of deflected passes by Carl Nassib, dropped passes by Jets wide-outs, and Fitzpatrick being Fitzpatrick is the reason for that. Again it wasn't because the Browns secondary was balling out it was because the Jets couldn't capitalize on the Browns' mistakes.

Second Half

The Browns showed why they are 0-7, getting completely out played in the second half.

Offensively the Browns could only mustard up a touchdown with 12 seconds left in the game. McCown was 9/22 for only 113 yards two interceptions and a touchdown.The first int was a deep shot to Terrelle Pryor where is seemed like they a communication problem. The second was a horrible check down to Duke Johnson, who got his bell rung and the ball popped up for an int inside the Jets 20. The Browns again, couldn't get a consistent running game and were forced to throw because of it and because they fell behind with only a quarter left.

The Browns Defense in the second half was straight trash. They gave up three straight touchdown drives, and 4/5 drives scored points. The first drive was a 12 play for 78 yard drive that ended in an 24 yard catch by Quincy Enunwa. The Second, eight plays for 84 yards that was capped off by a four yard run by Matt Forte on 4th and inches. And then then third was a 13 plays for 81 yards which was again capped off by a Matt Forte touchdown run. The Browns couldn't get pressure on Fitzpatrick so he basically sat in the pocket and picked the Browns secondary apart.

Other Stuff

Statistically, the Browns and Jets were almost identical. But the Jets won two key areas of the game...turnovers & time of possession. The Browns had the two picks and only had the ball for 26:19. The Browns also gave up a few first downs on third and 10+...an area where they've had success.

Team Stats

MV(Brown) of the Game: Terrelle Pryor

Its sad that the MVB of the game was a non-factor in the second half. Yes, he did catch the 2-point conversion. But he did ball out in the first half against Revis who is still a top cover corner in the league.

Friday, October 28, 2016

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!!

Wednesday, October 12, 2016

Krunch Time With Katelin: Quarterback Controversy In Cleveland?

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The Cleveland Browns have a Quarterback controversy on their hands. Okay its not a big controversy but Hue Jackson does have a decision to make. The battle for starting quarterback is between rookie Cody Kessler vs veteran Josh McCown. And there is an argument for both players to start for this team.

Yes, both are hurt and it seems logical to keep Kessler in because he hasn't played bad enough to lose the job. Kessler's stats are 54/81 529 yards two touchdowns and one interception. Now we all understand that Kessler isn't going to be the future starting quarterback for this team, but this year has been a perfect year for Kessler to learn the game and develop on the run. Again he hasn't played bad at all, and his worst throw was the interception which was against Josh Norman. Kessler is the game manager every team wants in a backup, which is why the Browns drafted him in the third round.

Here is the unfortunate thing though...the Browns are still winless through five weeks and are the last winless team in the NFL. With Tennessee coming up this week, it seems very likely the Browns are going to start Josh McCown.

McCown gives this team the best chance to win every week especially with the lack of playmakers with Corey Coleman out for another few weeks. And that's not a knock on Kessler either, but when the Browns are trying to develop a young offense with rookie wide receivers starting the veteran quarterback could help quicken the development. But again, McCown gives this team the best chance to win a game and going into week six that is what the Browns are searching for. We might be having a different conversation if Cody Parkey hits that game winning field goal against Miami but that is neither here nor there.

It also seems extremely likely that McCown will play because of the recent roster moves. The Browns released quarterback Charlie Whitehurst and then signed Kevin Hogan (rookie quarterback from Stanford) to the active roster from the practice squad. So it seems unlikely that the Browns would have a rookie starter and a rookie backup even if its just for one week.

We Browns fans are used to quarterback controversies, but this one seems different. Its only week six, with 11 weeks to go. I'm sure the number two guy will be back playing in a few short weeks anyways because Cleveland...And don't worry Hogan will be the fourth starting quarterback of the season and the 27th different starter since '99. But lets just hope this tornado of a year ends with a rainbow with a pot of gold at the end...allowing the Browns to have the number one overall pick in the draft for the first time since 2000.

Friday, September 23, 2016

Radio Show 9.21.16: On Browns/NFL Week 2, Carson Wentz, Denzel Washington Movies & More

Wednesday, September 21, 2016

Krunch Time With Katelin: Why The Trust In Hue Jackson Doesn't Ride On Cody Kessler

Why The Trust In Hue Jackson Doesn't Ride On Cody Kessler's Success This Season
By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

September 25, 2016 will mark the 26th different starting quarterback for the Cleveland Browns since their return in 1999...yes 26th. The 26th quarterback is someone by the name of Cody Kessler.

Kessler, a rookie out of the University of Southern California where he was a three year starter, was taken in the third round (93rd overall) in the 2016 NFL Draft. Now there were some questions about drafting Kessler that high considering he was projected as a 5th-7th round pick and he was the 6th quarterback taken (before guys like Connor Cook, Dak Prescott, and Cardale Jones). Head Coach Hue Jackson said "You have to trust me on this one." Referring to taking Kessler that high. But we shouldn't lose faith in Jackson if Kessler doesn't work out this year.

Now we shouldn't expect much from Kessler and the 2016 Cleveland Browns even though the season is still in its infancy. This team is going to be on its third quarterback in as many weeks so we shouldn't judge Hue Jackson and company based on how well a rookie quarterback, who was drafted in the third round, plays. Yes, the Browns could have drafted Carson Wentz at number two overall instead of Cody, but we have to remember a few things before we watch Kessler on Sunday vs Miami and the rest of the season.

First off, this season was going to be a redshirt season of some sort. While watching him during the preseason Kessler looked lost at times and looked like an overwhelmed rookie. Now there is going to be some growing pains with him but fans need to remain calm and let Cody Kessler make his mistakes so he can grow from them. I don't think anyone could have predicted Kessler starting in week three because of injuries to Robert Griffin III and Josh McCown. So while watching the Browns going forward we need to remind ourselves that some of the development in other areas of the offense may take a hit because of Kessler starting.

Second, Kessler was drafted to become the next Josh McCown or Colt McCoy and that is ok. Backup quarterbacks are extremely valuable and as Browns fans we know this as a fact. Its fine for a team like the Browns who are building from the ground up to draft their backup for the future. Now the key word is future. If the Browns stay on the path they are going its extremely likely they will have the first overall pick in the 2017 NFL draft. The plan on paper is for Hue Jackson and company to take their franchise quarterback next year with that first overall pick, so why draft Kessler? Well its smart for a couple reasons. If the new quarterback isn't ready for week one in 2017 why not play the guy you drafted the year before until your franchise guy is ready. Another reason is having an insurance policy. If the franchise guy doesn't work out there is a chance Cody Kessler becomes the guy, just like what happened to the Redskins in 2012 with RGIII and Kirk Cousins.

The last reason not to lose trust in Hue Jackson is that Kessler isn't their guy no matter what Hue Jackson says. Yes lying isn't good for the trust level but its part of the business. I going to guess no one in Berea is going to go all in on Kessler instead of the potential number one overall pick. And like I just stated before Kessler is their backup for the future. The Browns are using this year as a tryout of some sort for 2017 and beyond so if Kessler plays well...great!

But if he doesn't, Hue Jackson can mark it up as a rookie learning the NFL and a guy who is groomed to be a backup. And again the plan is to get their guy next year in the first round or free agency and go from there. Yes, Kessler is an important piece for the future but a very small piece. Reminder Hue Jackson said to trust him on Kessler, but he really didn't explain what the Kessler plan was. So if Kessler becomes what we all think he is, a backup quarterback, then Hue Jackson didn't lie about anything. And lets not forget Kessler is third round pick, its not like the Browns traded up to get him...So don't be dumb and compare him to Carson Wentz.

Monday, September 19, 2016

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.