TRIPLE THREAT CLE: Pittsburgh Steelers

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Friday, December 29, 2017

Browns Preview 12/29/17: Cleveland Browns @ Pittsburgh Steelers

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

It's the season finale for the Browns as they try and fend off 0-16 for The Browns will be taking on the Steelers' backups since they've already clinched a first round bye in the playoffs. The Steelers are likely starting Landry Jones at quarterback and won't be playing running back Le'Veon Bell this game either. It's unknown what other players besides Bell, Antonio Brown, and Ben Roethlisberger will be sitting for this matchup so the preview will be even more Browns focused than usual.

Browns Offense vs Steelers Defense

I honestly don't really know what to say when it comes to the Browns offense. We've watched it all year, and it stinks. DeShone Kizer can't play a game where he doesn't turn the ball over and because of his poor decision making teams either bring pressure or shade coverage to Josh Gordon. Kizer needs to spread the ball much better than he has and if he doesn't do it early, Hue Jackson better pull him if he wants any chance to win.

It's also on Hue Jackson to run the ball. I know Isaiah Crowell is in the dog house and is most likely playing his last game in a Browns uniform but it's in Hue's best interest to run the ball with any of the three backs on the roster because of the poor weather conditions. It's unfortunate that it's come down to Jackson's playcalling instead of players on the field, but for once this season Hue has to coach to what he has to work with...

Browns Defense vs Steelers Offense

With the unknown of who's going to be playing on the offensive side of the ball the key for the defense should be simple. Get to Landry Jones and force a turnover or two. The running game for the Steelers shouldn't be much of a factor since Bell and Connor are out for the game so it's time for Gregg Williams to bring pressure and make Jones uncomfortable in the pocket. If Jones beats the Browns defense then good on him.

Five Guys To Watch

1. Myles Garrett: Garrett missed the week one matchup because of an injury. Now I know he isn't going against number 7 but it would be nice to show Pittsburgh what they have to deal with for the next 10 years.

2. Jabrill Peppers: This is another game where we get to see Peppers play near the line of scrimmage more. I wonder if the plan for next year is to have Peppers line up more at the strong safety spot rather than free safety 25 yards away from the snap.

3. Jason McCourty: McCourty has played really well this season. As the leader of the defense he needs to make a huge play in this game. Whether it's an interception or a forced fumble, the Browns haven't really made a huge play on defense this year.

4. Hue Jackson: Hue Jackson should be coaching for his job Sunday. It's pretty simple...How can the Browns honestly bring back a coach who could potentially go 1-31 in two seasons...

5. Jimmy Haslam: Now I know Haslam isn't a part of any of the game day stuff but he's someone everyone is going to be watching once the game is over. Even though he said Hue will be back for 2018 a few weeks ago going 0-16 could potentially change that whether or not it's for the good or the bad.

Weather Report:

Injury Report:

Betting Line (As of 12/28/17): Pittsburgh -8

Prediction:

As hard as it is to go 16-0 it might be just as hard to go 0-16. Terrible teams somehow win a couple game per year, but the Browns haven't which is nuts...That being said the NFL is set up for teams to basically win six games a year which is why I think the Browns are going to somehow win this game. The Steelers are resting most of their players and the Browns are fighting history...only one team has gone 0-16 and each member of the Browns don't want to be added to the list of players that have played on a winless team.

Final Score:
Browns: 17 Steelers: 14

Tuesday, December 19, 2017

Podcast 12/19/17: On the Browns & NFL Week 15 and Our Favorite Athletes, Games, Movies, TV and More of 2017

Saturday, September 16, 2017

3 Rivers Rundown 9/16/17: The Check Engine Light Is On

By Jaison Roberts, @Kratoslives

It's just one game into the season and the check engine light is on already? You've got to be kidding me.

Alright lets break it down...

We beat Cleveland on Sunday ✓.
Ben made it through the game with no injuries ✓.

Antonio Brown and the receivers made it through the game with no injuries and the tight ends are cool too. The O-line is healthy and they only gave up one sack

Now to check on the running back and oooh, there it is! That's what's setting off the check engine light. Now that we found the issue lets see what's going on with him.

Did he get hurt, nope. Did he fumble or miss a block. nope. He needs a tune up? And that's why you don't miss training camp. For all of Le'Veon Bell's greatness, there is one thing that he couldn't do while sitting out... taking a hit.

Since Le'Veon chose to sit out due to his contract, he gave up one thing that he couldn't get when sitting out, taking hits. Something that seems so small plagued him the whole game. He couldn't gage the hit speed of the defense. Yes he did get through the game with no injuries or fumbles, but he was completely off rhythm. That's why you don't sit out practice, even if he didn't play any preseason games, he would've had his game rhythm. This caused the NFL's most complete back to rush for only 35 yards on 10 carries and no this isn't a typing error. You could see that he was visibly off and had no rhythm for the game. So now he has the daunting task of getting his flow back while preparing to take on the Minnesota Vikings defense. I hate to say it, but thank goodness we played the Browns who were playing in a new defensive scheme or we would've had major trouble.

Now onto the defense. The played great for this unit especially since they committed some bone head penalties. Not to mention actively trying to keep the Browns in the game with freebie unnecessary roughing penalties. That means you Ryan Shazier, TJ Watt, JJ Wilcox, and an honorable mention Big Ben (even though he didn't get flagged). These penalties can't and shouldn't happen against the Vikings because if they do, they will put points on the board. Some of the highlights of the game belonged to the special teams and a rookie linebacker and 3rd year linebackers.

Lets start with Tyler Matakevich he set the tone by blocking the 1st punt attempt of the game, which led to Anthony Chickillo recovering the ball in the end zone for the game's 1st touchdown.

The front seven for the Steelers remained disruptive all game, recording 7 sacks which should've been 10 but 3 were taken away by penalties. Our front 3 recorded 2 of the 7 sacks thanks to Javone Hargrave and Cameron Heyward. The secondary also chipped in one sack by Joe Haden.

The stars on defense were Anthony Chickillo (2 sacks) & T.J. Watt (2 sacks and a interception). This was delivered with Stephon Tuitt on the sidelines with a bicep injury and Bud Dupree out with a shoulder injury. Not only did they respond to head coach Mike Tomlin's mantra "The Next Man Up", they delivered with big splash plays. Again major props to the special teams which kept the Browns at bay the whole game with great pressure on punts. Also great job by Antonio Brown for 11 catches and 184 yards, as well as Jesse James on the 2 red zone touchdowns.

This game still left me feeling cheated because of the Steelers past dominance of the Browns, but it should also be a warning for complacency. So now it's off to the Vikings, who is bringing in a tougher defense but a new O-line with 2 rookies starting and a first year player. And believe me they wont be laying down because they're playing the Steelers. They'll be more in the mood for a upset and to go 2-0 in the NFC North.

So Le'Veon, I hope you got some extra reps in practice this week and let's get this victory. My prediction for the game is 28-17 Steelers with another big helping of defense.

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!!!

3 Rivers Rundown 9/8/17: Steelers In Mirror Are Closer Than They Appear

By Jaison Roberts, @Kratoslives

The object in the Steelers mirror is the 7th Lombardi trophy.

This 2017 Steelers team is on the cusp of making history or being tracked down. This may sound confusing but the Steelers have two options; win it all and be alone in the NFL history books, or move over and make room for the New England Patriots who can win their 6th trophy. Me as a Steelers fan, would prefer the 1st option and they can do it. We have a team right now that is the perfect blend of old and seasoned, with their leaders and captains.

The team is now built for multiple Super Bowl runs with the past 3 years of drafting. The team average age is 28 years old minus 8 players in their 30's. Their nucleus is all under 29 years old and they are in good position with the salary cap, with relief coming. All while being able to win and repeat as champions just as long Kevin Colbert & Mike Tomlin play their cards right. Let's look into the current state of the team starting with our QB's.

We all know the Steelers are being led by a hall of fame QB in Ben Roethlisberger. Quietly, he is back in the position as he was as a rookie. This team no longer needs Big Ben to win it all but just lead them like he did in his first 2 years. After Ben, the QB room lacks the talent to strike fear in opposing defenses. Landry Jones is a journeyman who has it from the neck up, just not physically. Josh Dobbs has both the smarts and physicality, but lacks the experience.

The running backs are led by Le'Veon Bell. The only thing he can't do so far is stay on the field for all 16 games of a season. If he can stay healthy or avoid suspension, he's a threat to all past NFL rushing records. When you look at this man, the only thing that comes to mind is, "Did Barry Sanders and Marshall Faulk combine their DNA?" After him, here comes James Conner & Terrell Watson the Steelers prototypical RB. They're big, they're fast, but the knock on them is they're green so expect some mistakes when Bell finally needs a rest.

The receivers are a pure nightmare with the talent sitting in that room, led by Antonio Brown. When you have a number one receiver in Martavius Bryant as your number two, you know your unit is a problem for the opposition. This is followed up with Darrius Heyward-Bey, Justin Hunter, Eli Rogers and Ju Ju Smith-Schuster. I guess this isn't fair but I'm not complaining. It's my team we're talking about.

The tight ends leave a semi-sweet taste in your mouth. Not just mine but the staff, which led to the team trading for Vance McDonald from the San Francisco 49ers. Jesse James and Xavier Grimble both who know the playbook, but haven't seized the #1 spot. So this may be the only weakness on the offense, but the receivers make up for it.

As far as the O-Line is concerned, there are two things; they are healthy for once and Mike Munchak. Thank you again Tennessee Titans for firing him. After Mike's arrival, the O-Line had lived up to the billing. The wild part is now injures don't phase them because of the coaching.

The defensive line is just nasty with the return of Cameron Heyward and the play of Stephon Tuitt and Javon Hargrave. This will be the best front three since Brett Keisel, Casey Hampton and Aaron Smith, who used to wreck havoc on offensive lines, which these three can do.

Now for the freaks of the defense, the linebackers are going to feast this year. With the front three so disruptive, you now have Ryan Shazier, Vince Williams, Bud Dupree and T.J. Watt hunting in your back field. All while having James Harrison resting and preparing for a strong Super Bowl run. All of this can happen while having the young guns being lead by Arthur Moats. This unit has the chance to have three people with double digit sacks.

Now here comes the black sheep of the family: the secondary.

Arty Burns & Sean Davis both had solid rookie seasons and both got better in the 2nd half, including the playoffs. However, that still didn't stop the Steelers from seeking and getting help in the form of Coty Sensabaugh, J.J. Wilcox and the big prize, Joe Haden. This unit should all thrive with the front seven pressuring the QB. Mike Mitchell should be free to help on blitzes and run support as well.

The special teams should be solid again especially if Todd Haley's offense is scoring tons of points. This team should be able to go 13-3, but I'm going with my gut with a 1 game improvement. So, I'm giving the 2017 Steelers 12-4 record with a Super Bowl win.

#HereWeGo

Thursday, January 26, 2017

Radio Show 1/25/17: WWE Royal Rumble Weekend, Jamie Collins & NFL Championship Weekend

Monday, January 23, 2017

NFL Championship Weekend Recap: The Super Bowl Is Set

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

NFC Championship Game: Atlanta Falcons 44 Green Bay Packers 21

The Falcons clinch the NFC Championship for the second time in team history. The first was in 1998-1999 season when they defeated the Vikings 30-27.

This game was over at half time when the Falcons had a 24-0 lead. The Falcons completely dominated the Packers. Matt Ryan threw for 392 yards and five total touchdowns (four through the air and one on the ground). Julio Jones caught nine passes for 180 yards and two touchdowns. The Falcons' offense scored on 7/9 of their drives (six touchdowns). In total they completely dominated the Packers. The Falcons out-gained the Packers 493-367, won the time of possession 33:39-26:21, and converted 10/13 third down attempts compared to the Packers who only went 4/10.

The Packers shot themselves in the foot early in this game. After giving up a touchdown to start the game, the Packers drove down field and ended up missing a 41-yard field goal. In their next drive (down 10-0), the Packers ended up fumbling the ball while in the redzone. Aaron Rodgers had a really good game, throwing for 287 yards, three touchdowns and a pick. But Rodgers felt pressure constantly, getting hit seven times (two sacks) and having seven of his passes deflected.

It seemed liked the Packers ran out of gas. They had multiple wideouts playing hurt, they suffered two offensive linemen injuries, and a number of injuries on the defensive side of the ball. But the Falcons took advantage of it and good for them. With this game Matt Ryan solidifies himself as one of the elite quarterback in this league.

AFC Championship Game: New England Patriots 36 Pittsburgh Steelers 17

Another blowout in these playoffs which results in New England winning the AFC championship for the 9th time in team history (7th with Brady at QB). The Patriots seemed to be in control on offense from the first snap. They drove down the field on the first drive of the game, and if not for a drop on 3rd and 1 the Patriots were deemed to get a touchdown. The score of the first half was a bit misleading 17-9 Patriots. The Steelers had problems getting to Tom Brady which resulted in numerous breakdowns in their coverage.

Brady picked the Steelers apart, throwing for 384 yards and three touchdowns. Chris Hogan caught nine passes for 180 yards and two touchdowns and Julian Edelman caught eight passes for 118 yards and a touchdown. It was total domination on offense for the Patriots. And on defense they forced two turnovers and held the Steelers offense to only 368 total yards.

The Steelers offense struggled after the first quarter when Le'Veon Bell exited the game with a hamstring injury and wasn't able to return. The Steelers had to rely on their passing offense. Big Ben threw for 314 yards on 31/47 attempts and their leading receivers were Antonio Brown with seven catches for 77 yards, Eli Rodgers with seven catches for 66 yards and Deangelo Williams also had seven catches but only for 51 yards. The Steelers only averaged 6.7 yards per passing attempt compared to the Patriots who averaged 9.1 yards per passing attempt.

The Patriots show once again they are the class of the AFC and the NFL. This is the seventh time Brady and Belichick will represent the AFC in the Super Bowl. Both are arguably the greatest player/coach in NFL history and the best duo in league history.

Super Bowl LI is going to be an awesome matchup. Its really not just two great team matching up but two of the NFL's top quarterbacks and two of the best offensive play callers in the game. So naturally this Super Bowl is going to be a low scoring game, right? Whether it is or isn't this game should be entertaining or lets hope it is because the playoffs leading up to it really hasn't been.

Monday, January 2, 2017

Browns Recap 1/2/17: Cleveland Browns @ Pittsburgh Steelers

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The Browns fell to the Steelers 27-24 and finished the 2016 season going 1-15 and locking up the number one overall pick in the 2017 draft. Also Hue Jackson and company are safe and will be back next year. So another win coming from today. But lets talk about this very odd game.

The Browns offense was statistically pretty good. 437 Total yards with about 200 yards through the air and on the ground. But where the Browns lost this game was in the turnover battle. The Browns had four turnovers (three fumbles and two red zone turnovers) and also missed a 49 yard field goal. So its not like the Browns didn't have opportunities to win this game. Robert Griffin threw for 232 yards on 29/40 passing, two touchdowns and one interception. The leading receiver for this game was Terrelle Pryor who caught seven passes for 94 yards. He also surpassed 1000 receiving yards for the year with his 94 yard game. Gary Barnidge had five catches for 40 yards and a touchdown. Seth DeValve had the other touchdown catch, which was his only catch of the day for 12 yards.

Other notable receivers: Corey Coleman had five catches for 40 yards and Andrew Hawkins had five catches for nine yards.

The Running game had success today. Isaiah Crowell 152 yards on 19 carries including 67 yard run that set up a George Atkinson III touchdown run. Atkinson III had a solid day, seven carries for 34 yards, being the backup to Crowell with Duke Johnson suffering an ankle injury. Crowell unfortunately had a key fumble inside the five yard-line with less than one minute to go in the fourth. RGIII had 32 rushing yards on five carries.

The Browns defense was solid against the second string Steelers offense. They only gave up 69 yards on the ground. The Steelers leading rusher was DeAngelo Williams who had 67 yards on 23 carries. But the Browns struggled getting timely stops. They gave up the winning touchdown drive in overtime after the offense kicked a field goal forcing Steelers to score. The Defense also gave up a touchdown drive to end the first half and after the Browns intercepted Landry Jones but fumbled the return causing a touchback.

Jones had a pretty good game, throwing for 277 yards and three touchdowns. Eli Rodgers was the leading receiver with six catches 61 yards. Cobi Hamilton had three catches for 54 yards including the game clinching 26 yard touchdown catch. Other notable receivers: Demarcus Ayers had five catches for 44 yards and one touchdown.

The leading tackler for the Browns was Christian Kirksey who had 12 total tackles, three tackles for a loss and one sack. Jamie Collins was second with 10 total tackles. And Demario Davis had seven total tackles, two for losses and one sack.

Most Valuable Brown: Isaiah Crowell is the MVB for this game. If it wasn't for his 67 yard run the Browns wouldn't have had the opportunity to tie the game in the fourth quarter. Plus his day kind of personified this 2016 season. Play really well at times but mistakes come back to cost games.

Friday, December 30, 2016

Browns Preview 12.30.16: Cleveland Browns @ Pittsburgh Steelers

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The (1-15) Cleveland Browns travel to Pittsburgh to take on the (10-5) Steelers. This is going to be a weird game for a few reasons. First off, the Steelers are expected to sit Ben Roethlisberger, Le'Veon Bell, and Antonio Brown this week since they already clinched the third seed in the AFC playoff standings. On the other hand if the Browns lose this week, they will clinch the 1st overall pick for the first time since 2000.

Browns Offense vs Steelers Defense

It sounds like Robert Griffin III will start this week, since he was cleared to be taken out of Concussion protocol. If Griffin doesn't start, Cody Kessler will start in place of him. Another a few other shifts on the offensive line. Jonathan Cooper was released this week and Alvin Bailey was activated off of the suspension list and will start this week. Cam Erving will shift over to right tackle in place of Austin Pasztor and either Anthony Fabiano or Gabe Ikard will start at center this week.

The game plan this week should be the same as the past few weeks with Griffin at quarterback. Use Griffin's legs to set up the zone-read running game for Isaiah Crowell. The Browns should run the ball a lot to the right to test Cam Erving at right tackle. It will be interesting to see if the Browns active Darius Jackson this week. Jackson was claimed a few weeks ago from Dallas and has yet to be activated for a game.

The passing game should be the same also. Take some shots down field to keep the defense honest, but overall just take what the defense gives Griffin. Corey Coleman should get a lot of targets since Terrelle Pryor is still banged up. Duke Johnson should get his normal touches out of the backfield in the check down game.

Browns Defense vs Steelers Offense

Landry Jones will be starting this week for the Steelers. He has a career record of 1-2. And the one win was against the Browns last year when he got hurt and Big Ben replaced him. DeAngelo Williams will start and get the bulk of the carries with Bell out.

The Steelers should play conservatively. They don't want anyone to get hurt this game, whether its a backup or a starting offensive lineman. So heavy running, winning the time of possession, and limiting turnovers is going to be their game plan for this week,

The Browns will need to force a turnover or two to be able to pull out this game. And to do that they need to get pressure on Jones. Jamar Taylor should get multiple opportunities to make a play this. On the run defense side, Shelton needs to set the tone at the line of scrimmage since DeAngelo Williams will get the start and many carries.

Five Guys to Watch

Cam Erving: Cam's is getting his first start at right tackle and it sounds like he could be the right tackle in 2017.

Robert Griffin III: This could be his last start in a Browns uniform. The Browns will need to make a decision about him this off-season and depending how things go, Griffin could be out of the NFL.

Isaiah Crowell: It will be interesting to see how the running game will play with a new look offensive line. Crowell is 200 yards away from 1000 for the season. Yes it seems unlikely but hey...its something to watch out for.

Emmanual Ogbah: Ogbah will need to get to the quarterback this week. Hopefully Ogbah can close out this year on a high note. He's played really well since moving to the defensive line.

Danny Shelton: The Steelers are going to run the ball with Williams a lot this week. Shelton is an easy pick this week. He needs to set the line of scrimmage and can't let the Steelers running game get into a rhythm.

Injury Report
Weather
Betting Line: Pittsburgh -6

Prediction: 24-17 Steelers

Don't worry Browns fans, they clinch the number one overall pick and draft talk can begin next week. The only good thing about this week 17 is that no changes should be made on "Black Monday". The Browns didn't go 1-15, aren't firing coaches, and clinched the number one overall pick...I'd say that a fairly successful "try-out" year.

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 18, 2016

Browns Preview 11.18.16: Pittsburgh Steelers @ Cleveland Browns

By Katelin Marshall, @KatelinKnowsCLE

The (4-5) Pittsburgh Steelers travel to Cleveland to take on the (0-10) Browns. The Browns are coming off an interesting game against the Ravens where rookie starting quarterback Cody Kessler was benched in the second half while leading 7-6. Then Josh McCown took over and the Browns ended up losing 28-7. The Steelers lost to the Cowboys last week 35-30 in a shootout. Ben Roethlisberger threw for 408 yards and three touchdowns in that game. But the deciding factor of this game was the Steelers going 0/4 on two point conversion attempts.

Browns Offense vs Steelers Defense

Cody Kessler will be starting this week with an opportunity to show he's improved enough to be the starter long-term. Kessler will need to prove he can throw the ball down field to help out the running game and the intermediate passing game. Kessler's stats aren't bad. He's thrown six touchdowns and only one interception (which was back in week four). Kessler has a high completion percentage 66.9% but only 7 yards per attempt. The Steelers defense gives up about 278 yards threw the air. Their secondary is headlined by William Gay...yes William Gay is still in the league. They have first round pick Artie Burns as their nickel corner and former Browns first round pick Justin Gilbert as a sub-package corner. With all that being said Corey Coleman and Terrelle Pryor should have a good day Sunday. Pryor is a matchup nightmare for the Steelers, whether its down the field or in intermediate yardage. But its up to Kessler to take advantage of Pryor and Coleman.

The running game just needs to keep the Steelers honest. Its not like the Browns are going to run for 120 yards but if they can get 85-100 total yards on the ground then it should keep the Browns in third and manageable. The Steelers give up about 102 yards on the ground per game with ranks 15th in the NFL. But with the loss of Cameron Heyward the Steelers will need to adjust and the Browns need to take advantage of the lack of Heyward...both in the running game and pass protection.

The offensive line of the Browns will dictate how this game goes. Cam Erving and Spencer Drango are the most important, Erving and Drango have to keep the pocket clean for Kessler to be able to throw the ball down field like Hue Jackson wants. Yes, Kessler needs to get the ball out quicker but we've seen Erving...he might be the worst player in the NFL and Drango is still a rookie. But if the Browns can win in the trenches then the Browns have an opportunity to at the very least cover the betting spread.

Browns Defense vs Steelers Offense

This is were this game can...and will get ugly. The Browns defense averages 419 total yards per game which ranks them 31st just behind the 49ers. And the Steelers average 370 total yards per game which is ranked 11th. Roethlisberger is going to target Antonio Brown and Le'Veon the most in the passing game. Brown will be going against Joe Haden most of the game and has had great numbers against him. Haden has problems going against small and quick receivers because of Haden's inability to play press-man against him. Bell will have a combination of linebackers (Jamie Collins, Christian Kirksey, and others) and young safeties. Browns and Bell are first and second on the team with catches...and Bell missed the first three games due to suspension.

The Browns struggle against the pass giving up about 275 yards per game...but against the run the Browns are 31st, giving up 143 yards per game. The linebackers for the Browns will have big games stat wise because the Steelers game plan should be give the ball to Bell 25+ times. The Browns have to choose whether or not to sell out on the run or pass and then hope they can force a turnover...whether its in the red zone stopping a score or the Steelers side of the ball shortening the field for the offense.

Five Guys to Watch

Cody Kessler: Kessler is going to be one of the five guys to watch until the end of the season. Kessler has an opportunity to prove to the front office and coaching staff he's the starter to build around. Kessler need to get the ball out quickly and to stay aggressive whether its down the field or scrabbling for extra yards.

Terrelle Pryor: Pryor has shown he can be a pro-bowl receiver. Kessler needs to play aggressive and Pryor and him have good chemistry. So Pryor should get a ton of targets this week and should find the goal line at least once.

Cam Erving: Erving is running out of chances to prove he's an NFL player not just a starting center. With Heyward out, Erving has an opportunity to show he can be a competent center. These next few weeks will be a tryout not just for his Browns career but his entire NFL career.

Emmanual Ogbah: Ogbah is now listed as an defensive lineman instead of an outside linebacker. He needs to play well in both against the pass and rush. And he needs to capitalize on the pressure he gets on Roethlisberger.

Joe Haden: As long as Haden doesn't let Antonio Brown go for 120 + yards then its a success. Haden is in an almost impossible situation. He's banged up and he will have to go up against the best receiver without any help this game will show if he's quit...and if the team has quit on this year in general.

Injury Report

Weather Report
Betting Line: Pittsburgh -8

Prediction: Steelers 35 Browns 24

The Browns will fall to 0-11...*insert #questforimperfection & 0-16 parade jokes. This is a must win for the Steelers to potentially remained tied with the Ravens (who are playing the Cowboys). Kessler should play well and Pryor and Kirksey will continue to show that they are pro-bowl players but overall the team lacks talent all over...and this game will show the giant gap between the Steelers and Browns.

Friday, October 21, 2016

3 Rivers Rundown 10.21.16: Steelers Mid-Season Report & Big Ben's Vacation

By Jaison Roberts, @Kratoslives

Most sports blogs have already given their mid-season reports, but this is the Steelers. Our mid-season just started, since Big Ben got hurt. How is this mid-season, you might be asking? Well, he is on schedule to miss his yearly 4 games.

At this time, the Steelers are 4-2. This is with two devastating losses, with the worst being the loss to Miami. That loss was the start of Big Ben's yearly vacation and his nagging injuries. His knee injury from the previous year flared up and needed another surgery. This wouldn't be as bad if it wasn't for the defense already being a walking M.A.S.H unit. Cam Heyward, Ryan Shazier and Bud Dupree are on the shelf. Not bad considering we are 4-2, but here comes the Patriots.

With our defense in complete shambles, this is the wrong team coming to town. They're going to kill us since we can't generate a pass rush. Tom Brady is going to go nuts and our secondary is his target. Our rotation of Tuitt, Hargrave and Heyward can't get pressure on the QB. Daniel McCullers & Ricardo Matthews are major disappointments. They have the size, just not the functional skills.

They were manhandled by a weak Miami offensive line that just ran right at them and through them. Not only was it sad but telling of things to come. Which leads to our own offensive line, which is hurt and influx with too many injuries. This is causing major problems with pass protection. That was clear when we played the Eagles and their "Wide Nine" defense. This defense worked so well causing break downs, the Dolphins duplicated it and got the same results the win. The great news our bye week is here.

When we come off our bye week, we get the Ravens and Cowboys. Even if the Steelers lose, we'll still be in second place. Hard to imagine that, but the Bengals have come back down to Earth. A Cowboys loss is out of the division, so not as bad as losing in the division. That will lead to the return of Big Ben and the return of offensive stability. Our defense will be up and running after the bye week so I'm hoping we'll have a chance of stealing a win or two.

Now back to our mid-season report, the Steelers are ahead of schedule which is amazing. We have found a new offense which seems to be 2 to 3 deep in skill positions, other than QB. The TE position is actually the most surprising with Xavier Gimble and Jesse James trying to phase out TE Ladarius Green.

The only weak spot remains our offensive line, due to injuries, not due to poor play. This is a great problem to have since in our recent past, it was just poor playing. Our defensive line is now in the same boat as our past offensive line with poor play, but it's due to injury. But most importantly it's also due to bad drafting & free agent signings (McCullers & Matthews).

Now here comes the real issue with our defense, our linebackers are still rebuilding. Yes, we have Shazier, Dupree and Timmons. Sounds good for a core until you realize Jarvis Jones is still under performing and Shazier & Dupree are hurt. Father time has finally caught up to James Harrison and the newbies at LB are still learning.

Speaking of our newbies at linebacker, they're a least a season away from making that position formidable again. Its great but still sucks since we are in the middle of this season. Now as for the Steelers defensive backs, other than Mike Mitchell, it's crickets and I do mean crickets. They make so much noise during practice and pregame warm ups but during the games, NOTHING. Other than improving on tackling they, all need hand transplants. Our special teams have held their own but no Splash Plays have come from them to this point.

The coaching has gotten better on the offensive side and the defensive side, excluding Carnell Lake. He continues to be the coaching staff albatross, so let me say, Carnell it's time for you to go. I can't believe I said it, but really Carnell Lake it's time for you to go. You were a great player for us but you are not a good coach. I feel you have a wealth of knowledge, but you may not be a teacher which is a problem if you can't convey the message.

So as we prepare for the second half, the team has a clear cut path to the playoffs. We just need to go .500 until Big Ben's return. Which means the offense should revolve around Le'Veon Bell and DeAngelo Williams. Stick to this plan that will give quarterback Landry Jones a chance to use play-action passes to move the ball deep. The whole league knows we are deadly when going deep.

Mike Tomlin, Head Coach: grade B+, would've gotten an A but Carnell Lake is on your staff
Todd Haley, Offensive Coordinator: A, you're proving why you'll get another head coaching job
Mike Munchek, Offensive Line: B, only due to the injuries
Richard Mann, Wide Receiver Coach: A+, your a God among men when it comes to picking talent
James Saxon, Running Back Coach: A, two words Bell & Williams
Keith Butler, Defensive Coordinator: C+, injuries are keeping your grade down
Mike Mitchell, Defensive Line: C+, Injuries and bad picks are hurting you
Joey Porter & Jerry Olsavsky, Linebackers Coach: B, injuries and Jarvis Jones
Carnell Lake, Defensive Backs Coach: C, Only reason why your grade is this high is Mike Mitchell
Danny Smith, Special Teams: C, Haven't lost or won a game, so I won't go higher

Overall Team Grade: B-, Again injuries and Carnell Lake are the main reasons why the grade is so low. You must prove it after the Pats & bye week or 3/4 season grade may be lower.

Friday, October 7, 2016

Radio Show 10.5.16: On Browns/NFL Week 5, College Football, Indians & MLB Postseason