11/26/07
For honestly the first time since I was a
young child I can say with pride.....''How bout' them BROWNS???!!!'' With seven
wins and just four losses the Browns are in the thick of things in the wild card
race. Derek Anderson has been nothing short of phenomenal this season as well as
Kellen Winslow. Braylon Edwards has been great, although he has dropped a few
passes that he should have hauled in. Overall though, for the first time since
the return in 1999, today I found myself yelling at a Browns team that was
winning.
For those of you that are looking for reasons to the recent success of this
Browns team look no further than Joshua Cribbs. He has by far been the MVP of
this team. With 1,475 yards on kick returns it really makes the kicking team
factor in where he is. He is always a threat for a long return with an average
of 32.8 per return he always gives us good field position. He should definitely
be playing in Hawaii after the super bowl.
As far as the offense goes, it all starts with the offensive line. They have
been one of the best units in the league this year with Anderson only being
sacked nine times. Also when we need Jamal Lewis to run...he does, flat out. He
can also catch the ball well out of the backfield. If you look at the years he
was successful in the Baltimore offense it was when he was involved in the
passing game as well as being the feature back. The past two weeks the Browns
have been putting him in that role and he has shined. The more we keep Lewis in
that role, the more he will perform.
Now to the receivers, Edwards has been the threat we need him to be, even
with the drops. The main component of our passing offense is Kellen Winslow.
Winslow seems to catch everything that is thrown near him, and he always tries
to fight for extra yards. He is our biggest weapon on third down and in the red
zone. I can honestly say that we are witnessing the best tight end in Cleveland
Browns football history week after week (sorry Ozzie).
Some might ask, "what about our defense?''. Well it has been coming along
the past couple of weeks. We have been getting a lot more pressure on the
opposing quarterback and stopping the run better also. What impressed me most
today was the play of rookie Brandon McDonald on one of the best wide outs in
football in Andre Johnson. McDonald really held it down and made some big plays
today. The defensive line has really been stepping it up as of late with the
play of Ethan Kelley and Shaun Smith.
Playoffs??? Playoffs??? Forget the playoffs. We need to focus on Arizona
next Sunday and the jets the week after that. But like always Browns
fans.....Until next time........GO BROWNS!!!!!!!!!!
10/22/07
In my past columns I have said many times that Brady Quinn
should be playing sooner rather than later, and believe me, I'm not one to say I
was wrong. But this time...I was wrong. With the way that Derek Anderson has
performed this season, although he has had his ups and downs, he deserves to
start until he fails. Anderson has led this team to have the most potent offense
we have witness as browns fans since coming back in 99. We have some very
explosive weapons on that side of the ball and it all has been starting with the
incredible play of Braylon Edwards. This is exactly what Savage and Crennel
hoped they were getting as the number three overall pick in the draft. He has
been very consistent with his play so far this year and has not had the problem
he has had in years past, dropped balls. Right now he is ranked fourth in the
NFL in receiving yards with 552 after just six games. He is also ranked third in
touchdowns with seven.
Another very valuable weapon on the offensive side of the ball
is one who has been more consistent. Kellen Winslow has been incredible in every
sense of the word. He currently is second in the NFL among tight ends in yards
with 506. He also is fifth in catches among tight ends with 29. All of this is
very impressive by itself but knowing that he is playing with basically a
separated shoulder is so much more impressive. He also seems to have matured a
lot while becoming more of a leader on this team.
Jamal Lewis has not looked bad so far but definitely could
improve. He has had some huge games and some very mediocre games. One thing that
he does bring to this team even without the expected production is experience.
He knows what it takes to win games in this league and he definitely brings his
knowledge to this young group.
The most surprising thing to me though this year has been the
play of the offensive line. They have consistently opened holes for the backs
and kept Anderson off of his back. With a line like this, this team could
definitely continue to improve throughout the year, which could in fact be huge
with the way that the rest of the division, excluding Pittsburgh, has
underperformed this year. With some more improved play from the defense we could
be looking at exceeding most peoples expectations for the year.
Until next time, GO BROWNS!!!!
9/28/07
After starting the season 1-2 here are some more random
thoughts in my head, lets start out with the negatives...
The run defense looks like it would let me pick up 100
with ease. With the signings of Robaire Smith and Shaun Smith, I really
thought it would at least somewhat shore up the run defense. But once
again on Sunday we made Lamont Jordan look like Jim Brown. This has
happened now for three years in a row, and it needs to stop now.
It looks like Ted Washington would burn Eric Wright
down the field for a touchdown. Wright has looked downright confused out
there. He bites on every fake and it seems like he is never in a good
position to make a play on the ball. For three straight games he has let
whoever he covers get the best of him.
Derek Anderson still looks turnover prone. This is my
biggest concern with Anderson. He doesn't take what the defense gives
him, instead he tries too hard to make a big play. If he wants to hold
of Quinn much longer he will have to stop forcing throws and play like
the DA we say against Cincy.
The receivers still drop too many passes. With the
exception of Jurevicious and Winslow there has been far too much
inconsistency with the Browns receivers. Edwards has put up some good
numbers but it seems like he is still dropping the easy ones. This was
the knock on him at Michigan, when he's on HE'S ON...but when he's off,
HE'S WAY OFF. Also Tim Carter has looked horrible to start the season
and it leaves me wondering why we're not seeing more of Josh Cribbs.
We don't have a quality backup at running back to
spell Jamal when he gets winded. Don't get me wrong I like Jason Wright,
he is a very good character guy and tries very hard. But it still seems
like he is a third stringer at best.
The penalties are still killing us. For example, after
the fumble that led to a second and 34 against the raiders Sunday,
penalties put us back further every time we got a little ahead. The team
needs to be a little more focused and not so anxious.
Now lets get on to some positive things to hopefully shed some
light on what looks like another dismal season.
Jamal Lewis already has had a 216 yard game. That
definitely shows me that he is determined to re-establish himself this
year and earn himself a big contract next year. This is the Jamal that
we hoped would show up this year when we signed him.
Kellen Winslow has looked like a beast again. This guy
has "it". He could definitely emerge as one of the best tight ends in
the NFL this year. One thing that I love to see is this year there is
actually plays that look like they are called for Winslow.
Joshua Cribbs looks like he could be headed to his
first pro-bowl if he keeps having returns like he has. As of right now
he ranks fifth in average per kick return with a 35.0 yard average. He
also ranks first in returns over 20 yards, he already has 11.
The offensive line looks like it is finally starting
to gel. They have only allowed seven sacks so far this year and five of
those sacks went to Charlie Frye, who I think we all can agree had happy
feet and held onto the ball for far too long. Jamal Lewis also ranks
third in the NFL in yards.
"The good Anderson". We saw a glimpse against Cincy of
"the good Anderson" when he threw for over 300 yards and had 5
touchdowns. He has a really big arm and can be accurate at times. Lets
all hope for his sake that he can have a game like that against
Baltimore. He really needs it to hold off Quinn.
It's already three games into the season and we still
have not seen Brady Quinn. This is definitely a huge positive because we
are sticking with the plan to bring him along the right way. This could
do wonders for the kids future by letting him observe some of the NFL's
best defenses before the bye week. Remember folks, we have already
played Pittsburgh and Oakland who both have great defenses. We still
have New England and Baltimore who have two of the best. I still predict
that unless Anderson is lights out until after the bye, that we will see
Quinn's first start on October 28th at St. Louis.
That's all I've got for this edition Browns fans. Remember to
keep your head up and like always....GO BROWNS!!!!!!!!!!
8/25/07
After two preseason games here are some thoughts that I have
had...
In order for us ever to compete with the big dogs in the
AFC, we're going to need a competent coach. The "coin-flipping" was the most
ridiculous way to make a decision I have ever heard. It must be how Romeo
chooses between BBQ and fried chicken.
The defense hasn't looked as good as I've expected against
the run. You can't let any running back in the league gain 5+ yards per
carry consistently or we will continue to get trampled as usual.
With that being said, the defense against the pass has
looked extremely good. Rookie Eric Wright has been playing like a seasoned
veteran and Bodden/Holly seems like they both picked up where the left off
last season.
Another thing about the defense that Ive really enjoyed is
the pass rush. Peek has really provided some good speed as a pass rush
specialist opposite Wimbley.
As far as the offense goes, with the exception of Jamal
Lewis and the line, has been pathetic. The quarterbacks competing for the
starting job look very skittish and for some reason cannot seem to make a
good read if their lives depended on it. The receivers also seem to pick up
where they left off last season with Edwards dropping everything when he
keeps his feet on the ground and Winslow looking like the only real
receiving threat we have.
I know it was only garbage time against players that more
than likely will be cut before the season, but I was very impressed with the
way that Brady Quinn played against the lions. He seemed to be very poised
in the pocket and un-rattled by pressure. The confidence that "the kid" has
could definitely go a long way if given the chance to play with the first
unit.
Chris Barclay should definitely get a look to be on the
opening day roster, even if only on special teams. He's got blazing speed
and a very good open Field runner, able to make all the necessary cuts when
needed. He also single-handedly won the preseason opener with his kickoff
return and I would personally love to see more of him returning kicks.
I love the way that Chud's offense looks. He's doing a
very nice job of mixing up the sets and formations. For once we don't look
like the "same old predictable browns".
With Frye being named starter this week in Denver, I
really hope he steps his game up and performs at least adequately. I really
like Charlie, but I still don't think he has what it takes to start in the
NFL. I'm really hoping he can hold it down until Brady is ready, because I
don't believe that the "baptism by fire" method used on former first rounder
Tim Couch is the answer. Let Quinn sit for a while and develop, It will only
do him good. Once the line gels a little more and figures out how to play
together as a unit, it will do wonders for Quinn's development
There is one last thing that I cant stop thinking about.
The way that Ken Dorsey has played in both of the two first games. I had
major questions about him before, although now I will be very disappointed
if he gets cut. He has made some great decisions so far and I would love to
see more of it the final two games. I really hope that we cut/trade Anderson
and go with a QB lineup of Frye - Quinn - Dorsey for the season.
I'll report back before the season opener and talk some more
Browns football. I can only hope that I have some more positive feedback next
time. Until then GO BROWNIES!!!!!!!!!!
8/7/07
Last edition I reviewed position battles for the offense, and as
promised this week is the defense. Lets start it off with the line:
Defensive Ends: For once guys/gals we finally got some quality
depth here. The signing of Robaire Smith was huge, as he is a huge upgrade over
Alvin McKinley. There really wont be to big of a battle here over the starters.
Orpheus Roye may be aging and on his decline, but he's been one of the few
steady forces on the line here. He deserves to start. On the opposite side it
should and probably will be Robaire Smith. He's experienced and knows how to do
his job well. As far as depth, Simon Frasier is a quality backup and Chase
Pitman can hopefully provide some relief as well.
Nose Tackle: Big Ted. This guy has been a force every year
he's been in the league...and 17 years is a long time. With that being said, 17
years means that the guy needs someone who can step in and hold it down when Ted
needs some rest. With the signing of Shaun Smith, I believe that he can perform
very well. He is a guy with a lot of potential, and I think I speak for everyone
when i say that he could be the future nose tackle here for a long time.
Outside Linebackers: The starters are inevitable. It will be
Wimbley and McGinest. Antwan Peek, David McMillan, and Matt Stewart will provide
quality depth as well. Peek will mainly be use to spell McGinest on third downs
and provide some much needed pass rush.
Inside Linebackers: Andra Davis is a force, and i expect him
to continue to be. D'Qwell Jackson had a nice rookie year even though he is a
little undersized. I went to camp last week and he looked a little bigger but
still not the ideal size. Don't forget about Chaun Thompson, after a year of
learning how to play in the middle he could step in and really do some damage if
given the shot. Another player to watch out for is Leon Williams, this guy is
perfect size, has good speed, and LOVES to lay the big hit.
Cornerbacks: This is going to be one of the most heated
battles in camp. Leigh Bodden will start on one side and he deserves to. The
other spot is wide open, and there are plenty of bodies competing for it. Second
round pick Eric Wright has looked good in mini-camp, and so far in training
camp. Kenny Wright is a seasoned veteran and deserves a look. Also don't forget
about Daven Holly, he had a rough start last year and seemed like the weak link.
But I'll take five INT's from my weak link any day. Then there is one of the
best stories possibly the NFL has ever seen with Gary Baxter. After tearing both
knees up and being told he will never play again, he has fought back and is
already practicing. I really don't see him competing at corner. If he does it
will be nickel back, I expect Crennel to make him a Safety.
Safeties: This could be a major strength of the defense this
year. Sean Jones was snubbed for the pro-bowl, as he had a monster season. I
think he will prove all his doubters wrong and give them no choice but to make
him an all-pro after this year, he's definitely playing with a chip on his
shoulder. Brodney Pool I also figure to have a big season. He has all the talent
in the world, lets just hope he can turn it into results on the field. Gary
Baxter is also in the mix here.
One last thing I wanted to say before I skip out here is,
while I was at camp last week I spoke with Jamal Lewis and asked him if he was
going to run for us like he did against us. He said absolutely. So of course my
next question was are you planning on breaking your record you set on us. He
responded by saying I'm going to try. I asked who he wants to break it on, and
he said..............BALTIMORE!!!!!!!!!
HERE WE GO BROWNIES......HERE WE GO......WOOF
WOOF!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
7/23/07
Okay browns fans, time for a
much needed change. Get ready for a great training camp preview and the most
updates throughout the season.
This week I wanted to start out talking about position battles, and were
going to kick things off with the offense:
Quarterback - This is going to be one of the most heated battles in camp this
year, and that's with the assumption of a long holdout by Quinn. Frye hasn't
done enough to just be given the starting position and Anderson has shown enough
not to be counted out. If somehow Quinn gets in camp relatively early, it could
get very interesting.
Running Back - Here's a position that for once is not a question. Jamal Lewis is
competing with basically nobody.
Fullback - Im really not sure what kind of offense Chud is trying to bring here
so the fullback role is really up in the air as to how it will be used. Vickers
will almost definitely lock down this role.
Wide Receiver - Edwards will be the number one here. J.J. will be the second
option. And the third one is where it gets interesting. Travis Wilson seen
almost no time last season and really we don't know where he is at. Josh Cribbs
is a player I think should be watched. I expect him to have a breakout year.
Also don't forget about Tim Carter. Hes a blazer and he is definitely in the
mix.
Tight End - If used correctly the weapons we have here in Winslow and Heiden
could be the best in the NFL this year. Winslow can stretch the D and create a
mismatch with anyone on the field. Heiden has great hands and knows how to play
football, one of those guys that always get four yards when you need three.
Left Tackle - Once again contract negotiations could ultimately determine who
starts here. The consensus is that if Thomas gets to camp on time he will hold
it down. If not Shaffer will get the nod while Thomas gets ready. Remember
Shaffer has a big contract and does not want to ride the pine, so I expect him
to really show what he's got in camp this year. Expect this to be a good battle.
Left Guard - This is something as a fan I am proud to say, Eric Steinbach. This
guy is pro bowl caliber. He is a stud lineman and will open up holes for Lewis
all year. There is no competition here.
Center - BENTLEY IS BACK!!!…maybe. If he does, great. If not, hey we still got
Hank Fraley. This guy held it down last year and also anchored the Eagles line
for years before that. I'm convinced that this is another position of strength
on the offense.
Right Guard - This is going to be another good one to watch. Seth McKinney,
Kelly Butler, Isaac Sowells and also if Bentley does return, most people are
forgetting that he was also a pro bowl guard. There is a lot of competition at
this position and should be a great battle in camp.
Right Tackle - Tuck will probably hold this spot down. Don't forget about
Shaffer also if Thomas gets the nod on the left side. Another player to watch is
Nat Dorsey, this guy is a mammoth at 6'7'' 335.
Next issue I will go over the defense and give more insight as to what to
watch for in camp. Until then GO BROWNS!!!
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