I should never have let Ray O Sunshine do my last blog. He tends to be overly optimistic, unlike my humble self.
The calls for Johnny early were ridiculous. The problem was the offensive line, and Manziel would have been swarmed under too.
A couple columns ago, I ripped some dumbass for calling this line Joe Thomas and a bunch of turnstiles, and find it disgusting that at least for this game, that stopped clock was right.
If McCown had more than about 2.3 seconds all day I didn't see it. Bitonio got his head handed to him, and Schwartze vs Khalil Mack?
A friend wondered if Alex Mack was the same since his injury, and after my initial "are you nuts?" reaction, I have to wonder about that myself.
Don't bash the running backs, either. Where the hell were they supposed to go? Until a running back with an eight foot vertical leap comes out, nobody could run through the solid walls of defenders I saw yesterday.
All the same, McCown did come back strong once the Raiders got a little tired and backed off a tad to protect their lead.
The defense was indescribably bad too. The whole defense.
Give the Raiders credit here. This is a good team, ok? If you're living in yesterdayland, you don't get that. But Carr isn't a rookie anymore, they got Amari Cooper, a truly impressive front seven, and they might well be a playoff team this season.
I know, you always want to blame the Browns and think the opposing team has nothing to do with a loss, but you're wrong.
My issue is that the Browns are at least as talented as these guys (except at wr and qb), with top ten talent at four positions on the offensive line, and they should have won at home!!!
Ray is pointing out the big comeback. Yes, that was pretty cool. And how about that catch by Hartline? Between his knees, rolling over and over and it never touches the ground? I've never seen anything like that!
Now, Here is an example of knee-jerk analysis by Casey Drottar. It's McCown's fault.
Casey doesn't seem to understand the type of coverage the Raiders used. Defensive backs were making sure the Browns receivers couldn't beat them deep. They risked short completions to do it.
Casey says teams know that McCown lacks the arm for deep passes. That's really, really dumb, Casey.
Number one, a receiver needs to be able to get deep. Number two, deep passes require what we call "time". Number three, nobody but you and some barstool gms has ever counted arm strength among McCown's flaws.
That pass rush contained and flanked. If you think Manziel wouldn't get clobbered just as quickly, you're out of your mind.
Casey was right about McCown missing some open receivers...like on at least three occasions. He was rattled, even on the few occasions when he wasn't forced to throw early.
But he did come back later. Without run support, and when the Raiders knew he had to pass.
He was a little off on the interception. Woodson baited that trap. Know why? Because he and other sentient beings knew that Josh was almost out of time and had to take more risks. Any quarterback who doesn't like to lose will.
It was the offensive line, Casey. Second and third and longs and instant pressure all day ruins any quarterback's day.
You want Johnny in that hot mess before he's good and ready? Good way to make sure he fails.
No surprises here. Casey somehow managed to poison penproof Alex Mack and the left side of the offensive line. He expected to see them do fine, and somehow managed to see it. Ask Crowell and McCown about that.
Well, I now have to adjust my w/l prediction based on this new information:
14-2.
Monday, September 28, 2015
Friday, September 25, 2015
Browns v Raiders Pregame by Ray O Sunshine
The scariest part of the Raiders are a good quarterback plus Cooper and Crabtree. Both are big YAC guys who can do a lot with short passes.
Oakland will no doubt take note of last week's sackfest by this defense and use a lot of those to get the ball out of Carr's hand asap.
In general, deep passes aren't the way to go against the Browns. The book so far in 2015 says quick passes and outside runs.
By the way: Not inside runs. You need to understand the difference ok?
The Brown's are built to run press/man coverage on the two outside receivers, and that's what they have to do here. No corner can stay on a receiver long, but this is the best way to screw up quick-hitting passes.
If Carr can't count on Crabtree or Cooper getting to their spots on time, he has to find them, confirm they're open, and check down or throw quickly.
Carr was NFL-ready when drafted, and has a bunch of starts under his belt, so he can do ok with this. But he's still not a seasoned veteran, and should catch a lot of heat, so he could make a couple mistakes.
As my crickets and Bub know, prior to his draft, I cited a distinct drop off in his stats in pressure situations as a reason to draft Bridgewater instead.
I wrote at the time, this can't always be fixed. It's flight-or-flight and more hardware than software.
I'm not bashing Carr, and haven't kept close track of him. He's done exceptionally well, given his circumstances so far. But it was a flaw he at least had in the past.
The Browns' front will attack as usual, of course. The cornerbacks are good enough to stay with receivers well enough to prevent big YAC yards, and there's enough general speed to converge. One safety can play a little deeper, but not so deep as not to be a factor against the run.
Cooper, at least, will do some damage. You should also recall that I really liked him a lot, because he does everything almost perfectly and would be an instant stud.
But I believe Crabtree can be limited, provided the pass rush gets to Carr on time.
Offense-wise, I have some stats and otherwise don't know as much as I should about the Raiders. Khalil Mack duh. I loved him too. He's not just a passrusher, but a total-package block-shedding tackling machine that any offense needs to find before every snap.
Fortunately, there's only one of him, and he can play on only one side of the field at a time.
I know from Marty that statistics are for losers, and game three is way early in a season to rely on them, but so far the Raiders have been weak against the run.
Here's the thing: The Browns so far have been a mediocre running team.
The knee-jerk reaction is that this means the Browns will trample the Raiders.
Experience has taught me that anything so obvious to pundits rarely happens.
However, I believe it will this time, for this reason: The Brown's have the blockers and the runners, period. They should be able to steamroll anybody.
I mean announce that they will run the ball, dare the defense to stop them, and still succeed...dammit.
The Raiders will be geared up to stop the run. Big deal.
With the running game inexplicably still lurching and sputtering, Josh McCown marched the Browns to the New York Jets' goal line in his first and only possession.
The Jets didn't fear Josh or his receivers, and tried to stop the run first. Dink-dunk. It works.
The Raiders have the game film. They'll believe that the more McCown has to throw, the better chance they have of his making a mistake, taking a sack, or at least finding himself in a bad spot. So they'll focus on the run too, and hope they have the same luck the Jets had.
I don't believe it will work this time. It's not just the smashmouth thing, but also the Benjamin thing.
I believe they'll have to try soft man or zone to cover him, and keep him short. If they don't, they'll have to keep a safety deep.
These coverages are more effective against the run, as at the snap the cornerback isn't backpedaling and is watching the backfield, but he's still backed off.
Benjamin underneath remains a threat. See his punt returns. Quit reciting the "precise patterns" mantra too by the way. His patterns are fine now.
Defenses now fear Benjamin. They don't fear Hartline or Crowell (except in the red zone), and he will open things up for other guys (lets not leave Duke and Malcolm Johnson out).
The Raiders are also thus far vulnerable to tight ends. We could see some surprises there too.
The Browns should win decisively. They are better than the Ravens. Yeah I said it.
Oakland will no doubt take note of last week's sackfest by this defense and use a lot of those to get the ball out of Carr's hand asap.
In general, deep passes aren't the way to go against the Browns. The book so far in 2015 says quick passes and outside runs.
By the way: Not inside runs. You need to understand the difference ok?
The Brown's are built to run press/man coverage on the two outside receivers, and that's what they have to do here. No corner can stay on a receiver long, but this is the best way to screw up quick-hitting passes.
If Carr can't count on Crabtree or Cooper getting to their spots on time, he has to find them, confirm they're open, and check down or throw quickly.
Carr was NFL-ready when drafted, and has a bunch of starts under his belt, so he can do ok with this. But he's still not a seasoned veteran, and should catch a lot of heat, so he could make a couple mistakes.
As my crickets and Bub know, prior to his draft, I cited a distinct drop off in his stats in pressure situations as a reason to draft Bridgewater instead.
I wrote at the time, this can't always be fixed. It's flight-or-flight and more hardware than software.
I'm not bashing Carr, and haven't kept close track of him. He's done exceptionally well, given his circumstances so far. But it was a flaw he at least had in the past.
The Browns' front will attack as usual, of course. The cornerbacks are good enough to stay with receivers well enough to prevent big YAC yards, and there's enough general speed to converge. One safety can play a little deeper, but not so deep as not to be a factor against the run.
Cooper, at least, will do some damage. You should also recall that I really liked him a lot, because he does everything almost perfectly and would be an instant stud.
But I believe Crabtree can be limited, provided the pass rush gets to Carr on time.
Offense-wise, I have some stats and otherwise don't know as much as I should about the Raiders. Khalil Mack duh. I loved him too. He's not just a passrusher, but a total-package block-shedding tackling machine that any offense needs to find before every snap.
Fortunately, there's only one of him, and he can play on only one side of the field at a time.
I know from Marty that statistics are for losers, and game three is way early in a season to rely on them, but so far the Raiders have been weak against the run.
Here's the thing: The Browns so far have been a mediocre running team.
The knee-jerk reaction is that this means the Browns will trample the Raiders.
Experience has taught me that anything so obvious to pundits rarely happens.
However, I believe it will this time, for this reason: The Brown's have the blockers and the runners, period. They should be able to steamroll anybody.
I mean announce that they will run the ball, dare the defense to stop them, and still succeed...dammit.
The Raiders will be geared up to stop the run. Big deal.
With the running game inexplicably still lurching and sputtering, Josh McCown marched the Browns to the New York Jets' goal line in his first and only possession.
The Jets didn't fear Josh or his receivers, and tried to stop the run first. Dink-dunk. It works.
The Raiders have the game film. They'll believe that the more McCown has to throw, the better chance they have of his making a mistake, taking a sack, or at least finding himself in a bad spot. So they'll focus on the run too, and hope they have the same luck the Jets had.
I don't believe it will work this time. It's not just the smashmouth thing, but also the Benjamin thing.
I believe they'll have to try soft man or zone to cover him, and keep him short. If they don't, they'll have to keep a safety deep.
These coverages are more effective against the run, as at the snap the cornerback isn't backpedaling and is watching the backfield, but he's still backed off.
Benjamin underneath remains a threat. See his punt returns. Quit reciting the "precise patterns" mantra too by the way. His patterns are fine now.
Defenses now fear Benjamin. They don't fear Hartline or Crowell (except in the red zone), and he will open things up for other guys (lets not leave Duke and Malcolm Johnson out).
The Raiders are also thus far vulnerable to tight ends. We could see some surprises there too.
The Browns should win decisively. They are better than the Ravens. Yeah I said it.
Thursday, September 24, 2015
The Number One Dumbest Browns Analysis of All Time
I'm trying to find this twit's name, but he was on ESPN with Steven A Smith Wednesday. I will call him Rhonny Barrett, for reasons which will become obvious.
The topic was Manziel vs McCown. Rhonny feels that Pettine and Farmer are desperately trying to save their jobs from Hair Trigger Haslam, but have little hope of doing so, since everybody on offense around the quarterback is so terrible.
The wide receivers are a bunch of undrafted guys except for Benjamin, who isn't bad but not great either.
Joe Thomas is a great player, but the rest of the offensive line are turnstiles.
He laughed at Isaiah Crowell.
The offensive line reference requires no further comment, as all by itself it vaults this to the all-time dumbest analysis.
I've rarely read or heard any analysis that didn't have something right in it. This one only manages to get a couple things maybe 33% right.
Crowell hasn't been great so far this season, but he's been okay. Duke Johnson is on this team as well.
Two of the wide receivers were undrafted, but even if there were more, a lot of undrafted wide receivers and running backs are exceptional.
Say what you will about Dwayne Bowe, but Brian Hartline is a BIG asset to any team.
I saved this part: Pettine and Farmer were opposed to drafting Manziel and were ordered to do so by Hair Trigger Haslam.
This is a steaming pile of LaCanfora. It's quite possible that Mike Pettine didn't like the pick, but went along with it.
Guys like this abhor vacuums. When they see holes or gaps, they leap over them, arriving at predetermined conclusions.
Dysfunction. Power struggles. DRAMA.
Jimmy Haslam isn't running for office. He said that continuity is important, and he likes Mike Pettine. He's from the Steelers organization and is a businessman.
He didn't force anybody to draft anybody. He lets professionals do their jobs. He wants the Browns to be like the Steelers.
The rest is gossip and crap.
And shame on Steven A Smith for not knocking Rhonny Barrett's b.s. out of the park.
Now, I dare anybody to find a dumber analysis.
The topic was Manziel vs McCown. Rhonny feels that Pettine and Farmer are desperately trying to save their jobs from Hair Trigger Haslam, but have little hope of doing so, since everybody on offense around the quarterback is so terrible.
The wide receivers are a bunch of undrafted guys except for Benjamin, who isn't bad but not great either.
Joe Thomas is a great player, but the rest of the offensive line are turnstiles.
He laughed at Isaiah Crowell.
The offensive line reference requires no further comment, as all by itself it vaults this to the all-time dumbest analysis.
I've rarely read or heard any analysis that didn't have something right in it. This one only manages to get a couple things maybe 33% right.
Crowell hasn't been great so far this season, but he's been okay. Duke Johnson is on this team as well.
Two of the wide receivers were undrafted, but even if there were more, a lot of undrafted wide receivers and running backs are exceptional.
Say what you will about Dwayne Bowe, but Brian Hartline is a BIG asset to any team.
I saved this part: Pettine and Farmer were opposed to drafting Manziel and were ordered to do so by Hair Trigger Haslam.
This is a steaming pile of LaCanfora. It's quite possible that Mike Pettine didn't like the pick, but went along with it.
Guys like this abhor vacuums. When they see holes or gaps, they leap over them, arriving at predetermined conclusions.
Dysfunction. Power struggles. DRAMA.
Jimmy Haslam isn't running for office. He said that continuity is important, and he likes Mike Pettine. He's from the Steelers organization and is a businessman.
He didn't force anybody to draft anybody. He lets professionals do their jobs. He wants the Browns to be like the Steelers.
The rest is gossip and crap.
And shame on Steven A Smith for not knocking Rhonny Barrett's b.s. out of the park.
Now, I dare anybody to find a dumber analysis.
Wednesday, September 23, 2015
Josh McCown Starts vs Raidas
During the Titans game, I felt that the Manziel era had dawned. Surely, he did enough to take over the team and grow faster with it.
But nooooo! Marty Pettineheimer says gramps has to start again, cuz he's eggzzbeereunzed.
But I am probably wrong, and Mike right.
I was ignoring Johnny's two fumbles. Just because the good guys recovered them doesn't mean they never happened. Just as because three catchable passes weren't caught doesn't mean he didn't throw them.
Still some rough edges with Johnny, and actually, McCown has looked better overall.
He did methodically March the team down to the Jets goal line before he got hurt. He looked great.
Johnny has proven he can start. He has done well. But Josh is the guy who worked with the first team through pre-season, and who has done nothing to warrant a benching.
Josh McCown might well give the Browns a better chance to win. Further, it might be better to take the pressure off the kid again and let this win soak in as he watches his mentor run things some more.
The real pros--former coaches and quarterbacks--don't find consensus here. Some think it should be Johnny. Others, McCown. Each side sees the logic of the other.
But they all agree: We could have a controversy brewing if McCown stumbles.
I respect Mike's decision. Better to risk "John-nee! John-nee!" than "BOOOOO!" if he starts Manziel, and he is the one who stumbles.
Remember, last season shouldn't really count for Johnny, and he's one year removed from a playbook-free sandbox offense. He's not there yet. He could still revert.
Boxers are (ideally) drilled and tested relentlessly before they're even allowed to spar. Balance, defense, combinations etc. must become reflexive and automatic.
If you rush your baby boxer, then as soon as he's stunned, he'll become the raw prospect he was before you trained him, and might get destroyed.
So it's fine with me if they take their time with Johnny. The longer it takes, the more comfortable he'll be in a pocket...and in protecting the ball...
But nooooo! Marty Pettineheimer says gramps has to start again, cuz he's eggzzbeereunzed.
But I am probably wrong, and Mike right.
I was ignoring Johnny's two fumbles. Just because the good guys recovered them doesn't mean they never happened. Just as because three catchable passes weren't caught doesn't mean he didn't throw them.
Still some rough edges with Johnny, and actually, McCown has looked better overall.
He did methodically March the team down to the Jets goal line before he got hurt. He looked great.
Johnny has proven he can start. He has done well. But Josh is the guy who worked with the first team through pre-season, and who has done nothing to warrant a benching.
Josh McCown might well give the Browns a better chance to win. Further, it might be better to take the pressure off the kid again and let this win soak in as he watches his mentor run things some more.
The real pros--former coaches and quarterbacks--don't find consensus here. Some think it should be Johnny. Others, McCown. Each side sees the logic of the other.
But they all agree: We could have a controversy brewing if McCown stumbles.
I respect Mike's decision. Better to risk "John-nee! John-nee!" than "BOOOOO!" if he starts Manziel, and he is the one who stumbles.
Remember, last season shouldn't really count for Johnny, and he's one year removed from a playbook-free sandbox offense. He's not there yet. He could still revert.
Boxers are (ideally) drilled and tested relentlessly before they're even allowed to spar. Balance, defense, combinations etc. must become reflexive and automatic.
If you rush your baby boxer, then as soon as he's stunned, he'll become the raw prospect he was before you trained him, and might get destroyed.
So it's fine with me if they take their time with Johnny. The longer it takes, the more comfortable he'll be in a pocket...and in protecting the ball...
Sunday, September 20, 2015
Browns vs Panthers Instareaction
Manziel fled the imaginary pocket several times after only 4 seconds or so. Obviously he is not an imaginary pocket passer.
Manziel blew two passes, one each to Bowe and Benjamin. He should have known it would inconvenience them to reach or dive for the ball. He also blew another one to a tight end I haven't identified yet. He clearly threw it away too hard, and right between his numbers. He most likely caused bruises.
All in all, considering how bad he is and always will be, I guess the kid lucked out.
Hopefully, McCown will be back next week, to put Manziel back on the bench where he belongs.
Panther fans at least now know that Marcus Mariotta is a bust. What are they going to do at quarterback now?
The Brown's defense still can't stop the run except most of the time.
It was just the Panthers, so it doesn't mean anything.
The Brown's still suck and we're still all gonna die.
Manziel blew two passes, one each to Bowe and Benjamin. He should have known it would inconvenience them to reach or dive for the ball. He also blew another one to a tight end I haven't identified yet. He clearly threw it away too hard, and right between his numbers. He most likely caused bruises.
All in all, considering how bad he is and always will be, I guess the kid lucked out.
Hopefully, McCown will be back next week, to put Manziel back on the bench where he belongs.
Panther fans at least now know that Marcus Mariotta is a bust. What are they going to do at quarterback now?
The Brown's defense still can't stop the run except most of the time.
It was just the Panthers, so it doesn't mean anything.
The Brown's still suck and we're still all gonna die.
Tuesday, September 15, 2015
Merrill Hoge is a Big Dope
According to Merrill Hoge, Johnny Manziel was a bust as a rookie vs. Cincinnatti. I'm not sure I've ever seen a quicker hook.
Hoge has ignored his performance in pre-season, and in the first half vs the Jets.
Merrill, you can't stay in a pocket that doesn't exist. It's okay to run for your life.
To any objective and sentient observer, Manziel has improved dramaticly. He stays in the pocket when there is one to stay in, and he finds second, third, and even fourth reads.
Indeed, his progress from the sandlot system he ran in college, and his drunken stupor of a rookie season, has been remarkable to everyone with two synapses to rub together!
Indeed, his progress from the sandlot system he ran in college, and his drunken stupor of a rookie season, has been remarkable to everyone with two synapses to rub together!
And he is a second year quarterback in his second offensive system. He has around three games worth of experience.
Josh McCown was running for his life, too, so let's kick him to the curb as well.
Thomas Moore of Fansided wrote a good article on these comments by the poster boy for the NFL concussion protocol.
Guys like this say "Nothing I've seen" (changes my mind) a lot. Do you know why? Because they ignore anything that doesn't support whatever they made their mind up about.
Early in training camp, some fans made fun of McCown for getting excited over a Manziel completion to Johnson the fullback.
Well, nimrod, the fullback was the fourth read, and Josh saw that Johnny had read that far and made the correct throw.
I'm sure Hoge would have laughed at that too. It's worse for this assistant curator of the Simpletonian Institution, though, because he is supposed to comprehend this stuff.
Some people had their minds made up about Johnny Manziel before he was drafted. And nothing they have decided not to see will ever change their minds.
Merrill Hoge was a really good football player, but can't analyze his way out of a paper bag.
Guys like this say "Nothing I've seen" (changes my mind) a lot. Do you know why? Because they ignore anything that doesn't support whatever they made their mind up about.
Early in training camp, some fans made fun of McCown for getting excited over a Manziel completion to Johnson the fullback.
Well, nimrod, the fullback was the fourth read, and Josh saw that Johnny had read that far and made the correct throw.
I'm sure Hoge would have laughed at that too. It's worse for this assistant curator of the Simpletonian Institution, though, because he is supposed to comprehend this stuff.
Some people had their minds made up about Johnny Manziel before he was drafted. And nothing they have decided not to see will ever change their minds.
Merrill Hoge was a really good football player, but can't analyze his way out of a paper bag.
Sunday, September 13, 2015
Well THAT Sure Sucked
Until Josh McCown did his Jordan Cameron imitation the Browns were winning, and on the verge of a nice lead. The offense was grinding out first downs and eating the clock.
Manziel flashed what he could do, but the Jets got his number after he burned them.
Johnny Manziel is an inexperienced quarterback who hadn't worked for a couple weeks.
The offensive coordinator and system are new. McCown will be back later, and for now Johnny will get a full week with the starters.
He will be slightly more experienced and much better prepared.
As for the running game, well it was the Jets is this a big shock? Once they were down 10 points they had to scrap it, while the Jets had their whole playbook.
This was bad...after McCown got hurt and the kid's wheels came off. This was one game; really one half of one game.
Next time Gipson might hold onto his interception and the quarterback might not get his bell rung and fumble, and the Jets have to come out of a deep hole.
This is a very talented young team. The sky isn't falling. Yet.
Also Solomon's injury could get Pryor back. But if not, Mike Pettine has taken ownership of his release. Don't blame Ray for this one.
But...Ray BRING HIM BACK RIGHT NOW!
Note to Johnny Manziel: You are a Cleveland Brown. Helmet-to-helmet hits on you are legal. Protect yourself.
Manziel flashed what he could do, but the Jets got his number after he burned them.
Johnny Manziel is an inexperienced quarterback who hadn't worked for a couple weeks.
The offensive coordinator and system are new. McCown will be back later, and for now Johnny will get a full week with the starters.
He will be slightly more experienced and much better prepared.
As for the running game, well it was the Jets is this a big shock? Once they were down 10 points they had to scrap it, while the Jets had their whole playbook.
This was bad...after McCown got hurt and the kid's wheels came off. This was one game; really one half of one game.
Next time Gipson might hold onto his interception and the quarterback might not get his bell rung and fumble, and the Jets have to come out of a deep hole.
This is a very talented young team. The sky isn't falling. Yet.
Also Solomon's injury could get Pryor back. But if not, Mike Pettine has taken ownership of his release. Don't blame Ray for this one.
But...Ray BRING HIM BACK RIGHT NOW!
Note to Johnny Manziel: You are a Cleveland Brown. Helmet-to-helmet hits on you are legal. Protect yourself.
Saturday, September 12, 2015
Browns vs. Jets: Sounds More Like Browns vs Patriots. Jeez
First off, I've figured out the Gilbert incident: The other driver was a wide receiver. Gilbert drove on the sidewalk in order to avoid him.
But please cut this crap out, demanding that the team fires or cuts somebody almost daily. You embarrass us.
To hear the guys on NFL Radio, the Browns are playing a superior team this Sunday, and might as well not show up.
Apparently during the pre-season Isaiah Crowell has turned into a bum, the offensive line forgot how to block, Josh McCown has no chance of matching Brian Hoyer, (or Ryan Fitzpatrick), the dress rehearsal in Tampa Bay never happened, this year's wide receivers are worse than last year's, and the Jets the JETS offense will be too much for the Browns defense.
Mangold, I guess, can block 3 guys simultaneously, because he sounds better than Thomas, Mack, and Bitonio. No doubt he'll handle Danny Shelton single-handedly. (He'll need the other hand for Des Bryant).
And of course, the Browns always lose their openers. Thing is, Mike Pettine only lost ONE.
In reality, the two teams are comparable, but the Browns have a better offensive and yes defensive line. Crowell was just warming up, and Duke Johnson will be the scariest offensive player in this game.
The Cleveland Browns are more talented, and Mike Pettine knows what he's doing.
Browns 95, Jets minus 13.
But please cut this crap out, demanding that the team fires or cuts somebody almost daily. You embarrass us.
To hear the guys on NFL Radio, the Browns are playing a superior team this Sunday, and might as well not show up.
Apparently during the pre-season Isaiah Crowell has turned into a bum, the offensive line forgot how to block, Josh McCown has no chance of matching Brian Hoyer, (or Ryan Fitzpatrick), the dress rehearsal in Tampa Bay never happened, this year's wide receivers are worse than last year's, and the Jets the JETS offense will be too much for the Browns defense.
Mangold, I guess, can block 3 guys simultaneously, because he sounds better than Thomas, Mack, and Bitonio. No doubt he'll handle Danny Shelton single-handedly. (He'll need the other hand for Des Bryant).
And of course, the Browns always lose their openers. Thing is, Mike Pettine only lost ONE.
In reality, the two teams are comparable, but the Browns have a better offensive and yes defensive line. Crowell was just warming up, and Duke Johnson will be the scariest offensive player in this game.
The Cleveland Browns are more talented, and Mike Pettine knows what he's doing.
Browns 95, Jets minus 13.
Sunday, September 6, 2015
Ray Farmer Wheelin and Dealin
Can't wait to find out what the Browns got from the Tennessee for Terrence West. Probably no higher than a third round pick, which would be a pretty good deal for them.
West has bellcow potential, and has had a year to refine his blocking and develop as a receiver. They're getting a young guy who's already broken in and can play every down.
Somehow I'm always disappointed in trades, and am a BROWNS fan, so it might be a fourth rounder. Good move, Titans.
But good move Ray, too. I have no idea if rumors of West not working hard enough are true, but either way, Duke Johnson is here now, and Crowell has more tread left on his tires, plus a little more power and speed. The replacement running backs brought in did alright, and in reality running back is just about the easiest depth-hole to fill.
One last thing about Terrence West: Running backs only have so many carries in them. West came out of college with a ton of them. The pundits are oblivious to this, but the gms aren't. This is why he lasted til the third round. Just sayin.
Now, this here Anthony Pasztor guy Ray grabbed off waivers from the Jagwires is an offensive lineman entering his fourth season. That's significant. Year 4 is when many low-round and undrafted offensive linemen blossom.
Pasztor has played left guard, but he's really a right tackle (with a lot of starts). He's not going to challenge Mitchell Schwartz, but represents solid veteran depth at that position, and emergency depth at guard.
Apparently, Cam Erving will back up literally every other position, including left tackle.
The Brown's can play a game with seven offensive linemen active, though it's a tad risky. Ray is still shopping around in the bargain bin, of course, but seven is usually enough, since it's rare to lose more than two big uglies in one game.
Ray Farmer has now released four of his own latest draft picks. It should be starting to dawn on some of you that he and Mike Pettine get along just fine. If you listen with both ears to Pettine himself, he and his assistants had the final say on all the cuts.
Tony, I know it can be tough finding stuff to write about, but let's tone down the fake reality soap opera dramatic stuff for now, ok?
"Dysfunction": What a cool word! Makes dumb people think you're smart and stuff! "Power struggle": Oooh, how dramatic! Hey, uhh...do you actually like football more than the Cardassians? Just wonderin.
Im overjoyed for Jamie Meder the home boy. THE best pre-season player made Mike's decision easy.
Like Scott Solomon, here's a guy that outworked and outthought more gifted athletes and took control by force of will.
He didn't just make the team, you know. Kitchen and Taylor hit the road. Jamie Meder will rotate with Danny Shelton as the number two nose tackle. He'll play on obvious run downs WITH Shelton. Jamie will play a LOT.
Kitchen was big and strong, but slow. Taylor was hurt too much. Meder is 6'2", 295...and was benching 515 lbs a year ago.
Hard work isn't all of it. Meder and Solomon have great instincts. They just automatically know where the ball is, and how to get there.
"Play like a Brown" has been kind of a joke so far, but kudos to Mike Pettine for having the guts to say it, even as he took over a crappy team. He had to know he'd be laughed at, until he won. This is projecting confidence. Inspiring. It's leadership. A leader is a guy that does or says things nobody else has the guts to do or say. Most of the rest of us enthusiastically support him/her. Since we came down from the trees.
Meder, Solomon, Shelton, Hartline, Bibbs, Haden, Dansby, Gipson, Mack...They're examples and believers. Count McCown and Greco and Hitner in there, too.
...apologies to those I left out. I stuck to the obvious ones and left out the super fast smurfs.
I count Josh Lenz among them. Ray will try to put him on the practice squad. I also count the main reason he was released: Terrelle Pryor.
Yeah, you heard me. He finally gave up his dream of being a quarterback and embraced wide receiver. When he knew he was licked as a quarterback, he swallowed that bitter pill and resolved to be the best damn wide receiver ever to play.
I love this. I've been through something like it.
I can't be a quarterback wah-wah ok time for plan b: Go to Randy Moss academy. Learn from veterans. Bust ass making up for lost time. Play special teams. Work with McCown and Manziel after practice.
Yes. Terrelle Pryor is one of Pettine's Browns. He's coming from behind, outworking other guys. Yes, he's gifted, but he's fighting just as hard as Solomon, Meder, Benjamin and yes--Josh Lenz to turn his career around.
Remember Edward Scizzorhands (Braylon?) Well that ain't Pryor. Scizzorhands didn't play like a Brown. Pryor will. Laugh at me now but believe me later: Terrelle Pryor will be an elite player by the end of 2015.
...unless he's crippled, which, being a Browns fan well, you know...
I
West has bellcow potential, and has had a year to refine his blocking and develop as a receiver. They're getting a young guy who's already broken in and can play every down.
Somehow I'm always disappointed in trades, and am a BROWNS fan, so it might be a fourth rounder. Good move, Titans.
But good move Ray, too. I have no idea if rumors of West not working hard enough are true, but either way, Duke Johnson is here now, and Crowell has more tread left on his tires, plus a little more power and speed. The replacement running backs brought in did alright, and in reality running back is just about the easiest depth-hole to fill.
One last thing about Terrence West: Running backs only have so many carries in them. West came out of college with a ton of them. The pundits are oblivious to this, but the gms aren't. This is why he lasted til the third round. Just sayin.
Now, this here Anthony Pasztor guy Ray grabbed off waivers from the Jagwires is an offensive lineman entering his fourth season. That's significant. Year 4 is when many low-round and undrafted offensive linemen blossom.
Pasztor has played left guard, but he's really a right tackle (with a lot of starts). He's not going to challenge Mitchell Schwartz, but represents solid veteran depth at that position, and emergency depth at guard.
Apparently, Cam Erving will back up literally every other position, including left tackle.
The Brown's can play a game with seven offensive linemen active, though it's a tad risky. Ray is still shopping around in the bargain bin, of course, but seven is usually enough, since it's rare to lose more than two big uglies in one game.
Ray Farmer has now released four of his own latest draft picks. It should be starting to dawn on some of you that he and Mike Pettine get along just fine. If you listen with both ears to Pettine himself, he and his assistants had the final say on all the cuts.
Tony, I know it can be tough finding stuff to write about, but let's tone down the fake reality soap opera dramatic stuff for now, ok?
"Dysfunction": What a cool word! Makes dumb people think you're smart and stuff! "Power struggle": Oooh, how dramatic! Hey, uhh...do you actually like football more than the Cardassians? Just wonderin.
Im overjoyed for Jamie Meder the home boy. THE best pre-season player made Mike's decision easy.
Like Scott Solomon, here's a guy that outworked and outthought more gifted athletes and took control by force of will.
He didn't just make the team, you know. Kitchen and Taylor hit the road. Jamie Meder will rotate with Danny Shelton as the number two nose tackle. He'll play on obvious run downs WITH Shelton. Jamie will play a LOT.
Kitchen was big and strong, but slow. Taylor was hurt too much. Meder is 6'2", 295...and was benching 515 lbs a year ago.
Hard work isn't all of it. Meder and Solomon have great instincts. They just automatically know where the ball is, and how to get there.
"Play like a Brown" has been kind of a joke so far, but kudos to Mike Pettine for having the guts to say it, even as he took over a crappy team. He had to know he'd be laughed at, until he won. This is projecting confidence. Inspiring. It's leadership. A leader is a guy that does or says things nobody else has the guts to do or say. Most of the rest of us enthusiastically support him/her. Since we came down from the trees.
Meder, Solomon, Shelton, Hartline, Bibbs, Haden, Dansby, Gipson, Mack...They're examples and believers. Count McCown and Greco and Hitner in there, too.
...apologies to those I left out. I stuck to the obvious ones and left out the super fast smurfs.
I count Josh Lenz among them. Ray will try to put him on the practice squad. I also count the main reason he was released: Terrelle Pryor.
Yeah, you heard me. He finally gave up his dream of being a quarterback and embraced wide receiver. When he knew he was licked as a quarterback, he swallowed that bitter pill and resolved to be the best damn wide receiver ever to play.
I love this. I've been through something like it.
I can't be a quarterback wah-wah ok time for plan b: Go to Randy Moss academy. Learn from veterans. Bust ass making up for lost time. Play special teams. Work with McCown and Manziel after practice.
Yes. Terrelle Pryor is one of Pettine's Browns. He's coming from behind, outworking other guys. Yes, he's gifted, but he's fighting just as hard as Solomon, Meder, Benjamin and yes--Josh Lenz to turn his career around.
Remember Edward Scizzorhands (Braylon?) Well that ain't Pryor. Scizzorhands didn't play like a Brown. Pryor will. Laugh at me now but believe me later: Terrelle Pryor will be an elite player by the end of 2015.
...unless he's crippled, which, being a Browns fan well, you know...
I
Saturday, September 5, 2015
I'm with Hartline: Browns Roster Cuts
What Brian Hartline tweeted was, as usual, taken out of context, but there can be no doubt that he's disappointed with Josh Lenz's release. So am I.
But Bud Shaw needs a few lessons in football. Six feet tall isn't undersized. What's average for a receiver, Bud? 6'3"? Bud thinks the Browns cut him because of his size, since, you know, they kept Pryor.
Bud also says we have lots of possession receivers already. Yeah guys like Benjamin, Gabriel, and Hawkins are possession receivers and say, waitaminnit...what was that thing about size?
Jeez Bud. Stick to baseball or something.
Ray Farmer, as I've said, doesn't let his ego interfere with his brain. Mayle and that linebacker were also released.
Mary Kay Cabbot thinks they'll try to get Mayle on the practice squad. They might. But they'll probably prioritize Lenz. Ray took a calculated risk here. He has to want to hold onto this kid. Lenz doesn't have the measurables of Charles Johnson, so he might get away with it this time.
Mayle? I hate to call a guy a bust right out of the gate, but...
Mary Kay assumes the ego thing again, forgetting that Gabriel, Williams, Solomon, Meder, and several other prominent players were Ray Farmer reclamations too.
Oh yeah. And Josh Lenz.
I told you they'd try to peddle West shortly after the draft, and that the Cowboys were likely partners. Did you find that amusing?
It's not over. The Joneses felt the asking price was too high. I'm guessing it was at least a third round pick, or even a second.
The Cowboys took their chances, hoping he'd survive through waivers long enough to reach them. Only Ray don't play that. Terrence West remains a Cleveland Brown, and Jerry? The asking price is still the asking price.
You don't cut a good player if you can avoid it. For Ray, it was always trade him or keep him. It's even debatable that Crowell is better than he is. There's little separation between them.
Mary Kay is really good, but if you read her and not me, the Mayle cut and Pryor retention surprises you, and the Lenz cut doesn't.
Ok I'm fishing for a compliment here. Anything? Anything?
Excuse me while I check out the whole list...
Tom Reed gave me the whole scoop. He agrees with Bud Shaw that the Browns super fast microbes are possession receivers, but I'll leave that aside: There are only six offensive linemen on the current roster, so back to the West trade:
Part of what Ray wants from Dallas for West was probably an offensive lineman. Dallas is stacked there, with starting calibre guys collecting splinters.
No doubt Ray is eyeballing other guys in the league, but stay tuned. Rayray could turn Terrence West into somebody like Cam Erving and a draft pick or two any time now.
Tom Reed is a little more surprised by the tight end situation than I am. He thought they'd try to upgrade it more.
In other words, nothing EJ Bibbs has done so far matters.
Oh I get it. None of these guys can replace Dizzy Cameron (when conscious and healthy), but does Tom think those guys grow in trees?
This is why Butterfingers Housler made it. They found it hard to give up on the guy.
Listen: This guy is an old vet. They've got a lot of PRO film on him. Evidently, they believe his dropsies are an anomaly. If you think you know better, get over yourself.
And if they're right, Housler is Cameron and a bag o chips.
Well that's all for now. Just remember you heard everything here first.
Almost forgot: The Dwayne Bowe cut theory probably came from somebody who read an old blog of mine. No credit. No pay. I'm kinda sick of it. That's really low.
But Bud Shaw needs a few lessons in football. Six feet tall isn't undersized. What's average for a receiver, Bud? 6'3"? Bud thinks the Browns cut him because of his size, since, you know, they kept Pryor.
Bud also says we have lots of possession receivers already. Yeah guys like Benjamin, Gabriel, and Hawkins are possession receivers and say, waitaminnit...what was that thing about size?
Jeez Bud. Stick to baseball or something.
Ray Farmer, as I've said, doesn't let his ego interfere with his brain. Mayle and that linebacker were also released.
Mary Kay Cabbot thinks they'll try to get Mayle on the practice squad. They might. But they'll probably prioritize Lenz. Ray took a calculated risk here. He has to want to hold onto this kid. Lenz doesn't have the measurables of Charles Johnson, so he might get away with it this time.
Mayle? I hate to call a guy a bust right out of the gate, but...
Mary Kay assumes the ego thing again, forgetting that Gabriel, Williams, Solomon, Meder, and several other prominent players were Ray Farmer reclamations too.
Oh yeah. And Josh Lenz.
I told you they'd try to peddle West shortly after the draft, and that the Cowboys were likely partners. Did you find that amusing?
It's not over. The Joneses felt the asking price was too high. I'm guessing it was at least a third round pick, or even a second.
The Cowboys took their chances, hoping he'd survive through waivers long enough to reach them. Only Ray don't play that. Terrence West remains a Cleveland Brown, and Jerry? The asking price is still the asking price.
You don't cut a good player if you can avoid it. For Ray, it was always trade him or keep him. It's even debatable that Crowell is better than he is. There's little separation between them.
Mary Kay is really good, but if you read her and not me, the Mayle cut and Pryor retention surprises you, and the Lenz cut doesn't.
Ok I'm fishing for a compliment here. Anything? Anything?
Excuse me while I check out the whole list...
Tom Reed gave me the whole scoop. He agrees with Bud Shaw that the Browns super fast microbes are possession receivers, but I'll leave that aside: There are only six offensive linemen on the current roster, so back to the West trade:
Part of what Ray wants from Dallas for West was probably an offensive lineman. Dallas is stacked there, with starting calibre guys collecting splinters.
No doubt Ray is eyeballing other guys in the league, but stay tuned. Rayray could turn Terrence West into somebody like Cam Erving and a draft pick or two any time now.
Tom Reed is a little more surprised by the tight end situation than I am. He thought they'd try to upgrade it more.
In other words, nothing EJ Bibbs has done so far matters.
Oh I get it. None of these guys can replace Dizzy Cameron (when conscious and healthy), but does Tom think those guys grow in trees?
This is why Butterfingers Housler made it. They found it hard to give up on the guy.
Listen: This guy is an old vet. They've got a lot of PRO film on him. Evidently, they believe his dropsies are an anomaly. If you think you know better, get over yourself.
And if they're right, Housler is Cameron and a bag o chips.
Well that's all for now. Just remember you heard everything here first.
Almost forgot: The Dwayne Bowe cut theory probably came from somebody who read an old blog of mine. No credit. No pay. I'm kinda sick of it. That's really low.
Thursday, September 3, 2015
The Dwayne Bowe Issue
I'm finding some of the comments about the notion that Dwayne Bowe could be released unfathomable.
This article typifies this line of thinking, starting with Solomon Wilcotts not understanding that the coaches were merely using him as a mindless tool to motivate this superstar...ahem...
Nine million guaranteed, ergo they have to keep him, even if it means losing a younger, better player. What? Why?
Farmer loved Bowe, right? So no matter what he's seen of the younger guys doesn't matter. Farmer will ride Dwayne over the falls. He'll keep "his guy" no matter what.
That's a load of crap. Ray Farmer played the game, just like Wilcotts, and he's already proven that he doesn't let his ego interfere with his brain.
First and foremost, you keep your best players, even if it means eating some dead money. Why on earth would you buy a lemon, and refuse to replace it with a cheaper car you already own simply because you paid too much for your lemon?
And "who else is there?" Well, the Browns are in the same boat as the Patriots and the Seahawks in that they lack a true stud number one receiver. Big deal. And Bowe himself isn't that guy do you get that?
Who do they cut to keep Bowe? Josh Lenz maybe? Pryor?
I'm not saying Bowe sucks. I don't know. He's been hurt, and hasn't had much of a chance to prove anything. But I do know that a bunch of younger guys HAVE proven something, and this is a meritocracy. Guaranteed money guarantees you money. Not a job.
I'm not predicting Bowe's release, either. But if you read my blogs, I suggested that he could be a cut WEEKS ago, and I bet you laughed at me.
Finally, keep decrying the Browns lack of offensive playmakers. Just keep that up. Meanwhile you want them to kick a real playmaker to the curb so that Bowe can stay.
Great way to run a business.
This article typifies this line of thinking, starting with Solomon Wilcotts not understanding that the coaches were merely using him as a mindless tool to motivate this superstar...ahem...
Nine million guaranteed, ergo they have to keep him, even if it means losing a younger, better player. What? Why?
Farmer loved Bowe, right? So no matter what he's seen of the younger guys doesn't matter. Farmer will ride Dwayne over the falls. He'll keep "his guy" no matter what.
That's a load of crap. Ray Farmer played the game, just like Wilcotts, and he's already proven that he doesn't let his ego interfere with his brain.
First and foremost, you keep your best players, even if it means eating some dead money. Why on earth would you buy a lemon, and refuse to replace it with a cheaper car you already own simply because you paid too much for your lemon?
And "who else is there?" Well, the Browns are in the same boat as the Patriots and the Seahawks in that they lack a true stud number one receiver. Big deal. And Bowe himself isn't that guy do you get that?
Who do they cut to keep Bowe? Josh Lenz maybe? Pryor?
I'm not saying Bowe sucks. I don't know. He's been hurt, and hasn't had much of a chance to prove anything. But I do know that a bunch of younger guys HAVE proven something, and this is a meritocracy. Guaranteed money guarantees you money. Not a job.
I'm not predicting Bowe's release, either. But if you read my blogs, I suggested that he could be a cut WEEKS ago, and I bet you laughed at me.
Finally, keep decrying the Browns lack of offensive playmakers. Just keep that up. Meanwhile you want them to kick a real playmaker to the curb so that Bowe can stay.
Great way to run a business.
Tuesday, September 1, 2015
The Browns Should Sign Ray Rice, RG III, and everybody elsr
...not.
It happens every season. Some fans and analysts want to sign everybody they ever heard of, because they've heard of them.
Often, it insults players already on the roster who are pretty good. In this case, guys like West and Crowell, who are already in their graves spitting out dirt based on preseason.
Ray Rice: Well he could be a bargain for the league minimum. He did have an off year last season coming off an injury, but he's only 28. And he's an effective receiver out of the backfield too.
Is he better than West or Crowell? I don't know. Its not only questions about his unproductive season, but also about how much better the indigenous guys will be in their second seasons.
The browns lack of running success this PRESEASON has more to do with stacked boxes, and no game-planning, than with the backs themselves. Ray Rice at his best might have fared no better.
Sure, let's sign Ray for the league minimum for one season and cut West, Crowell, or Duke Johnson.
Doesn't work for me. Rice has "done his time" for that horrific elevator thing, and is not that person at all. Ask his wife. But still, he brings baggage with him that this team doesn't need.
If you think that furor has died down, just wait til somebody does sign him. That elevator punch will get millions of hits all over again, and that poor coach will get asked all the same bs questions all over again.
Rice might help, a little, but the Browns don't need him.
Wait a minute! Trent Richardson is available!
RGIII: if this guy was a free agent, I might make an offer, but he's under contract, and what do you think the Skins are asking for him?
In the end, I predict they'll get a first round pick and more.
Is he that good? I don't know. Do you? Shaddap it was a trick question and you don't either.
Look at him. He's still kinda skinny. Can he stay healthy this time? Will he check his ego and stop fussin? Manziel has looked better than RG has under center and in the pocket already. Does this bode well?
No you di-enn! Yeah right just bring the wishbone to the NFL! Yeah that'll work! Yeah like communism works! We'll just do it right this time? Jeez. Check out Philadelphia's offense. That's as close as you'll get, and Sam Bradford runs it.
When Ray Farmer drafted Manziel, I didn't like it. When the Browns were bidding on RGIII, I wanted him a lot too.
I'm happy to report that for now I was fulla beans on both counts. Johnny has proved he can read through progressions in the pocket and make the right throw.
RGIII has not.
The Browns don't, in reality, need Ray Rice, and RGIII will be overpriced and might never pan out at all.
The sky isn't falling. Honest.
It happens every season. Some fans and analysts want to sign everybody they ever heard of, because they've heard of them.
Often, it insults players already on the roster who are pretty good. In this case, guys like West and Crowell, who are already in their graves spitting out dirt based on preseason.
Ray Rice: Well he could be a bargain for the league minimum. He did have an off year last season coming off an injury, but he's only 28. And he's an effective receiver out of the backfield too.
Is he better than West or Crowell? I don't know. Its not only questions about his unproductive season, but also about how much better the indigenous guys will be in their second seasons.
The browns lack of running success this PRESEASON has more to do with stacked boxes, and no game-planning, than with the backs themselves. Ray Rice at his best might have fared no better.
Sure, let's sign Ray for the league minimum for one season and cut West, Crowell, or Duke Johnson.
Doesn't work for me. Rice has "done his time" for that horrific elevator thing, and is not that person at all. Ask his wife. But still, he brings baggage with him that this team doesn't need.
If you think that furor has died down, just wait til somebody does sign him. That elevator punch will get millions of hits all over again, and that poor coach will get asked all the same bs questions all over again.
Rice might help, a little, but the Browns don't need him.
Wait a minute! Trent Richardson is available!
RGIII: if this guy was a free agent, I might make an offer, but he's under contract, and what do you think the Skins are asking for him?
In the end, I predict they'll get a first round pick and more.
Is he that good? I don't know. Do you? Shaddap it was a trick question and you don't either.
Look at him. He's still kinda skinny. Can he stay healthy this time? Will he check his ego and stop fussin? Manziel has looked better than RG has under center and in the pocket already. Does this bode well?
No you di-enn! Yeah right just bring the wishbone to the NFL! Yeah that'll work! Yeah like communism works! We'll just do it right this time? Jeez. Check out Philadelphia's offense. That's as close as you'll get, and Sam Bradford runs it.
When Ray Farmer drafted Manziel, I didn't like it. When the Browns were bidding on RGIII, I wanted him a lot too.
I'm happy to report that for now I was fulla beans on both counts. Johnny has proved he can read through progressions in the pocket and make the right throw.
RGIII has not.
The Browns don't, in reality, need Ray Rice, and RGIII will be overpriced and might never pan out at all.
The sky isn't falling. Honest.
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