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Detroit Lions vs. Cleveland Browns - Official Game Thread

Game: Detroit Lions(0-1) vs. Cleveland Browns(1-0)
Where: Cleveland Browns Stadium (Cleveland, OH)
When: 7:00 PM EST (Browns Pre-game for Cleveland viewers is at 6:30 PM)

Last week, it seemed like quarterback Charlie Frye took control of the position over Derek Anderson, but the competition isn't over yet. Could a matchup against a porous Lions' defense permit some more success this time around? Last week, our secondary had no issues whatsoever with the Chiefs offense, but this week could be a whole different story. The Lions have one of the best passing offenses in the NFL: will we see any flaws from someone like Eric Wright? Let's find out what's in store for today's game...

What We're Looking For:

  • Quarterbacks: Depending on who starts the game, it's tough to tell how much time each quarterback will receive in the system. Whatever happens though, a starting quarterback must be named after this week's game, or Romeo Crennel is an idiot. Even if the quarterbacks are close, he needs to make sure the starter develops more chemistry with the first-team offense without having to worry about the second team. Brady Quinn will get some playing time in the second half, and I'd expect him to try some throws down the field.
  • Running Backs: After being limited to four carries last week, I expect the Browns to attempt at least one drive in the first half in which they feed Jamal Lewis the ball several times in a row. Granted, we'd like to see the quarterbacks get some reps to show who the starter will be, but it cannot be at the expense of the running game. Jerome Harrison has looked better in practice than he did on gameday last week and will be seeking redemption. Chris Barclay has seen more reps in practice after his game-winning kick return last week, so it'll be interesting to see if his number is called when Quinn is in the game.
  • Wide Receivers: I haven't really seen too many injury updates on Tim Carter, but it would be nice to see how effective he can be as a slot receiver. Travis Wilson and Joshua Cribbs failed to impress last week as receivers, but they will probably see action before Maurice Mann and Steve Sanders, two men who have been looking very good in camp. Joe Jurevicius wasn't really targeted last week, but based on Derek Anderson's success with him last year, it would make sense to throw the ball towards his way often.
  • Tight Ends: To be quite honest, I could care less if Kellen Winslow gets the ball in the preseason, because I'd really like to save all of his energy, and the plays associated with him, for the regular season. My interest here involves the competition between Ryan Krause and Darnell Dinkins, particularly how much better of a blocker Dinkins is than Krause.
  • Offensive Line: The pass protection was solid last week, but we get more of a glimpse on the push they get in the running game today. It's early in the year, but hopefully Joe Thomas does not have another false start this week, considering he's only supposed to play about one half. Last year's draft pick, Isaac Sowells, may return to action with the second team offense. His progress may determine whether or not I'd rather put him on the PUP list to start the season or not.
  • Defensive Line: The defensive line wasn't exposed last week, but that was more so related to the Chiefs being so inept offensively. The Lions are not notorious for their running game, as they'll feature Tatum Bell in the backfield to start things off. If the Browns are trying to defend the pass in certain situations, I want to see how well our defensive line reacts to the draw play.
  • Linebackers: Linebacker David McMillan stepped up last week and could see some reps earlier in the game. During the week, Leon Williams has seen extensive playing time with the first string, and could actually start if Andra Davis is rested. I'd like to see if the Browns try out the combination where Kamerion Wimbley and Antwaan Peek rush from the same side, but that's probably something that they'll save for the season.
  • Defensive Backs: The secondary couldn't have done a better job last week, but they'll be put to the test in a major way when they have to defend both Roy Williams and Calvin Johnson. The Lions passed for around 500 yards of offense last week against the Cincinnati Bengals defense, and veteran Jon Kitna will not be afraid to attack Eric Wright often. I think Wright will be fine, but I'm particularly interested how Brodney Pool will do in coverage when one of the Lions' receivers cut towards the middle of the field on a deep ball.
  • Special Teams: There are no concerns for Phil Dawson or Dave Zastudil, meaning the focus here will be on the punt return game. Chris Barclay started attempting some reps at the position in practice, but muffed a few of them. Syndric Steptoe was not flashy last week, and will get a second crack at showcasing himself.
For each preseason game, I like to project one specific thing that I'd like to see from the offense and the defense. This week, I want the offense to find an identity at quarterback. That doesn't mean that one quarterback necessarily has to do horrible, because I hope both quarterbacks perform well. However, if the offense seems to communicate better when Charlie Frye is in the game, then it should be made official tomorrow morning that Frye is the starting quarterback. On the defensive side of the ball, I want to see if we can stop the running game. I have a feeling that we're going to commit extra defenders to the passing game, putting a lot of pressure on our defensive line and a few linebackers.

This is the official gameday topic for the second preseason game of the year, featuring the Detroit Lions against the Cleveland Browns. All comments regarding the game should be posted in this topic. Last, but not least, GO BROWNS!!!

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Re: Detroit Lions vs. Cleveland Browns
i wont be able to watch the game 2day but ill probably listen to it. anyway i think cribbs will have an impressive day today and harrison will ook like a totally different player imo.

by kjc on Aug 18, 2007 5:13 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Re: Detroit Lions vs. Cleveland Browns
We can only hope :) Unfortunately, many players seem to have a reputation of not living up to what we envisioned them as (excluding the first-round picks since Savage took over).

by ChrisPokorny on Aug 18, 2007 5:49 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Re: Detroit Lions vs. Cleveland Browns
it seemed as if cribbs didnt do anything today and i dunno if steptoe did but i doubt it.

by kjc on Aug 18, 2007 10:35 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Re: Detroit Lions vs. Cleveland Browns
Cribbs was in on the first kickoff return, and had a typical Cribbs return. He also had one punt return that was kicked deep. He looked much more comfortable fielding the punt than last year, and did an ok job returning it.

After that, all of the reps were given to the backups. I think Cribbs has both kick returns locked up.

by ChrisPokorny on Aug 18, 2007 10:37 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Re: Detroit Lions vs. Cleveland Browns
Derek Anderson is getting the start today, as has been rumored all week.

Also, as expected, Lennie Freidman, Leon Williams, and Eric Wright are starting. Of those three, Williams has the best chance to gain based on his performance.

by ChrisPokorny on Aug 18, 2007 6:58 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Re: Detroit Lions vs. Cleveland Browns
In my preview, I stated that I wanted to see when the offense in general would have better chemistry - under Frye or Anderson.

Anderson's first play of the game: Kevin Shaffer blows his assignment big time, Joe Thomas called for holding penalty, and Derek Anderson stripped of the football for a fumble.

No brownie points for Anderson.

Great job by Browns defense in a short field...looking better without Andra Davis.

by ChrisPokorny on Aug 18, 2007 7:15 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

What's up?
Is this Romeo, or Chudzinski, or Anderson, or what?  Is it a preparation issue or a game management issue?

Whatever the answer, get it fixed.

by mkwng on Aug 18, 2007 7:30 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Re: Detroit Lions vs. Cleveland ...
You gotta be kidding me.  Talk about a bad first 10 minutes to the game.  The offense looks like a high school team out there.

by TonyH on Aug 18, 2007 7:33 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Re: Detroit Lions vs. Cleveland ...
Sup Tony, you move to Chicago yet?

by mrich on Aug 18, 2007 7:48 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Re: Detroit Lions vs. Cleveland ...
Matthew!  Hey, no, my move has been delayed until January 15th.  I promise to get in touch once I get there.

I miss the BTF game chatters.  Hopefully if the Indians make the playoffs there will be a resurgence.

by TonyH on Aug 18, 2007 7:50 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Re: Detroit Lions vs. Cleveland ...
BTF is dead to me now. That guy whose username is "This site is going down the toilet" is totally right.

I've been doing the occasional LGT game thread, but it's just not the same without you, Dan, Kelly, and the rest of the crew.

by mrich on Aug 18, 2007 7:53 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Re: Detroit Lions vs. Cleveland ...
I pretty much agree.  Anyway, I found your comment at MbtLST wondering if there is a product Jhonny Peralta has ever endorsed to be quite hilarious.

And as I type this Bodden hurts his ankle.  Great.

by TonyH on Aug 18, 2007 7:59 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Re: Detroit Lions vs. Cleveland Browns
After we reached the one-yard line? I literally have no explanation for that...yikes!

by ChrisPokorny on Aug 18, 2007 7:34 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Bernie
Does Bernie always sound like this? Sounds like he's either hammered or just had a stroke.

Man, our QBs stink. Ooof.

by mrich on Aug 18, 2007 7:54 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Re: Bernie
Yeah, he always sounds like that. Gotta love Bernie's announcing and analyzing...

by ChrisPokorny on Aug 18, 2007 8:09 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Re: Bernie
Of course he does. He rates a full 80 points on the Unintentional comedy scale. It's great.

by BringBackKosar on Aug 19, 2007 5:33 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

ankle
Ooh, didn't look good for Bodden there. He might be out a little while.

by mrich on Aug 18, 2007 7:58 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Re: ankle
Nice to see him jump back in the game so quickly, but it's not a good sign that this is STILL a recurring problem.

by ChrisPokorny on Aug 18, 2007 8:10 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Re: Detroit Lions vs. Cleveland Browns
Bernie DOES sound drunk!  I hadn't noticed it until it was pointed out, but he does.  He sounds remarkably like Harry Caray, actually.

"You have nothing to lose in preseason.  Aaaaaaabolutely nothing."  LOL

by TonyH on Aug 18, 2007 8:24 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

QBs
I was one of those folks that didn't even want to see Quinn on the field until week 10 or so, but now... I'm seriously thinking he should be our starter week 1. I can't believe how bad Frye and DA are looking tonight.

by mrich on Aug 18, 2007 8:27 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Re: QBs
Football Outsiders had a thing last year where they went to the NFL Matchup studios and the consensus there was that Frye wasn't even a professional quarterback, much less a starter.  Perhaps a bit harsh, but I've pretty much given up hoping he'll turn out to be anything close to the answer.

It will be interesting to see how quickly Brady Quinn gets to see the field.

by TonyH on Aug 18, 2007 8:40 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Re: QBs
Remember, we're saying this because Frye and Anderson are performing horrible today. Crennel is not going to even consider to put Quinn in before the regular season even begins.

Overall, just an ugly offense all around after Jamal Lewis, Braylon Edwards, and Kellen Winslow were taken out of the lineup.

by ChrisPokorny on Aug 18, 2007 8:54 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Re: QBs
All fair points.  But, with Romeo coaching for his job this year, I wonder how short of a leash he will have with Frye (or Anderson, if he were to win the job).

by TonyH on Aug 18, 2007 9:13 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Re: QBs
romeo is too stubborn to start quinn before week 8.

by kjc on Aug 19, 2007 2:11 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Re: QBs
I think Quinn will start earlier than that for the simple fact that its very likely the other QB's will continue to look as bad as they have in the preseason. If that's the case, he'll have to bring Brady in maybe in the 2nd half around week 4 and if he does well he could start the next week.
I've had enough!!! www.romeomustgo.com

by romeomustgo on Aug 21, 2007 5:41 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Re: Detroit Lions vs. Cleveland Browns
After tonight's performance, Quinn deserves a start in the 3rd or 4th preseason game.

by NickFantana on Aug 18, 2007 9:52 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Re: Detroit Lions vs. Cleveland Browns
The third preseason game is typically meant for the starting quarterback to play for two and a half quarters, so I doubt Quinn will get in. However, I'd bank on Quinn starting the fourth preseason game.

by ChrisPokorny on Aug 18, 2007 10:18 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Re: Detroit Lions vs. Cleveland Browns
if quinn plays any less then a quarter next week i will be pissed, but i expect that he will barely pay if at all with romeo as coach.

by kjc on Aug 19, 2007 5:49 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Re: Detroit Lions vs. Cleveland Browns
ok since i didnt watch the game i would love it u can explain these plays to me.
  1. wat happened with frye at the end of the half on 4th down?
  2. how did steptoe look?
  3. what happened with like 30 seconds left in the half where they scored a field goal after a TD?
  4. I was listening to the game and it sounded like Quinn did a lot of shotgun. did other qbs do a lot of shotgun too?
  5. how did Eric Wright and Joe Thomas do?
thanks

by kjc on Aug 18, 2007 10:28 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Re: Detroit Lions vs. Cleveland Browns
If memory serves correctly, Frye was flushed from the pocket and ended up eating the ball, but I'm nowhere near 100% on that one.

Steptoe was okay, I guess.  He had a drop as a receiver.  He still looks slow to me on punt returns in making that first step.  

After the TD, Frye floated a pass over Heiden's head, which was picked and returned to around the 20 of the Browns.  Well drawn play, bad throw that floated well above Heiden.

Quinn did a lot of shotgun.  Almost, if not entirely, every play was from the shotgun.  Actually, he was smart with his plays in that the Lions went into a prevent, allowing Harrison to run after the catch, which he does well.  So a lot of Quinn's throws were dump offs and got some YAC.  But the other QBs weren't in the gun nearly as much.

I don't remember hearing Wright's or Thomas' name that often, so I'd assume well.  Wright had a nice play or two early on, and I think he got pulled early with some of the other prominent names (Winslow, Jurevicius, Lewis, Washington, etc.).  I'm not sure Thomas' name was mentioned and the protection in general, was pretty good.

by Fundamentals on Aug 18, 2007 10:42 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Re: Detroit Lions vs. Cleveland Browns
thanks for the update i really appreciate it. i was just looking at the stats and is showed frye with a 27 qb rating and that is just wow horrible. Also since I listened to some of this on the radio it seemed like anderson did no better and imo if we didnt have such a stubborn coach then quinn and even dorsey would be in the mix. heck if we didnt have such a stubborn coac hwe might have a whole different set of qb's in general.

by kjc on Aug 18, 2007 10:46 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Re: Detroit Lions vs. Cleveland Browns
I thought it was odd that Anderson didn't do more from the gun. Frye would be essentially useless from that formation, though.

by BringBackKosar on Aug 19, 2007 5:36 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Re: Detroit Lions vs. Cleveland Browns
  1. If I recall correctly, Frye tried a quick QB sneak with a yard and a half to go. Not only did the Browns fail to get it, I think someone was charged with either a holding call or not being lined up correctly.
  2. Steptoe may have gotten a catch in the fourth quarter, and he returned a punt or two. He didn't do anything to wow anyone.
  3. Frye threw the ball extremely high to an open Steve Heiden, and the ball was picked off.
  4. Quinn did more shotgun since we were in catch-up mode. We were trying to score quickly, so there was no need to really set up any formation that could involve a run play. Frye and Anderson were used under normal circumstances under center to permit the running game.
  5. Eric Wright had nice coverage on Calvin Johnson on an early pass; no glaring weaknesses. Joe Thomas had a holding penalty on the first play, but again, didn't seem to allow anyone to blow by him. The Browns seemed to run Jamal Lewis on the right side of the line though.

by ChrisPokorny on Aug 18, 2007 10:48 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Re: Detroit Lions vs. Cleveland Browns
also thanks. it seemed like brady handled the 2 minute drill very well. i liked how he didnt seem to force anything that wasnt there like a long pass. he had a lot of dumpoffs to barclay and harrison. After tonight I am just happy i had a radio the way home so i could listen to that 4th quarter.

by kjc on Aug 18, 2007 10:52 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Re: Detroit Lions vs. Cleveland Browns
Like last week, I will have my review of the game up some time later today. I know I've been sticking with the fact that Anderson/Frye will start the season, and I know what units Brady Quinn was up against, but this may actually be a case where...CLIFFHANGER!

Have to save those thoughts for the review ;)

by ChrisPokorny on Aug 19, 2007 9:19 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Re: Detroit Lions vs. Cleveland Browns
sanders looked good receiving but he did have a fumble. my question is what are his chances making the team?

also if i had to pick right now krause would be above dinkins and as much as i am a fan of uncks special teams skills i say griffin will make the team over unck. also if unck gets cut im sure Atlanta will sign him with Rosburg over there.

by kjc on Aug 19, 2007 2:13 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Re: Detroit Lions vs. Cleveland Browns
Fair points with the linebackers comments; those will undoubtedly be the toughest positions to project.

Edwards, Jurevicius, Carter, Cribbs, Wilson are the receivers. We'll utilize the TE's and RB's a lot in the offense, so having a sixth receiver wouldn't do much but waste a roster spot. Sanders is competing for the practice squad job with Kendrick Mosley and Maurice Mann IMO.

by ChrisPokorny on Aug 19, 2007 2:23 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Re: Detroit Lions vs. Cleveland Browns
fair enough but seeing ur projection im thinking sanders might go past steptoe.

by kjc on Aug 19, 2007 3:03 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Re: Detroit Lions vs. Cleveland Browns
Well, in my next version (coming this week), I actually planned on dropping Steptoe without replacing him.

by ChrisPokorny on Aug 19, 2007 6:29 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

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