Dawgs By Nature - Browns' Bernie Kosar Gets Criticized & Reprimanded Unfairly for His CommentaryA Cleveland Browns bloghttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/48679/dawgsbynature-fave.png2013-08-12T09:17:51-04:00http://www.dawgsbynature.com/rss/stream/43776892013-08-12T09:17:51-04:002013-08-12T09:17:51-04:00Peter King Defends His Remarks on Bernie Kosar
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<figcaption>Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Peter King justifies his criticism of Kosar, despite the fact that he didn't do any digging into the matter and lost credibility.</p> <p>I was waiting this morning to see if Sports Illustrated's Peter King would do the right thing and apologize for the comments he wrongly made about <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/">Cleveland Browns</a> color commentator <b>Bernie Kosar</b> a couple of days ago. Instead, King showed no dignity by acknowledging the criticism he received, but still defending his original take (and insinuating <i>again</i> about potential alcohol problems). Then, the icing on the cake is that he justified his take because of Kosar being forced to apologize to the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/st-louis-rams">Rams</a> organization. Ugh. <a target="_blank" href="http://mmqb.si.com/2013/08/12/andy-reid-peter-king-monday-morning-quarterback/6/">Here is what King said verbatim in his column this morning</a>:</p>
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<p>Bernie Kosar, doing color on the Browns preseason game against St. Louis Thursday, had some harsh things to say about the Rams. He called the Rams receivers, including the eighth pick in the 2013 draft, Tavon Austin, "horrible," said their parents "would be embarrassed" if they were watching the game, and, about backup quarterback <span>Kellen Clemens</span>, said, "Bless me Father for I have sinned. I have to watch him the whole fourth quarter."</p>
<p>Kosar’s a good guy, and I have always liked him. But I found the comments pretty far over the top and asked rhetorically, on Twitter, whether Kosar had been drinking. Which brought on a raft of criticism from the Twitterverse, saying I’d gone over the top. I don’t think I was over the top, but many of you felt I’d gone too far given the sea of trouble Kosar has had in his personal life. (None of which, from what I can tell, involve treatment for alcohol, or any admission of alcoholism.) My point was, I think there’s a way to be critical of players and teams, and analysts should definitely do that. But Kosar went too far, in my opinion. And not just mine. Kosar called Rams coach Jeff Fisher Sunday to apologize, and Browns CEO Joe Banner said Sunday the Browns "don’t condone the personal and unprofessional approach" Kosar used.</p>
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<p>King also failed to disclose the fact that he shares an agent with Fisher and has ties to the Rams organization. He also did not disclose the fact that he did not actually listen to Kosar's comments in context, and is just responding to what he heard from Fisher and then spinning it in his own way to create some buzz at Kosar's expense. (Aside: yes, I am making assumptions about what King actually listened to. But for those who actually listened, <a target="_blank" href="http://www.dawgsbynature.com/2013/8/11/4611368/browns-bernie-kosar-the-real-representation-of-his-commentary-against">there was nothing wrong with what Kosar said</a>).</p>
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<p><a href="https://twitter.com/SI_PeterKing">@SI_PeterKing</a> concludes he didn't need to apologize for attacking Kosar's past, & he was right b/c Kosar was forced to apologize? Asshole</p>
— Dawgs By Nature (@DawgsByNature) <a href="https://twitter.com/DawgsByNature/statuses/366906671752167424">August 12, 2013</a>
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<p>Feel free to let King know how you feel in the comments section of his MMQB column, or continue letting him know on Twitter.</p>
https://www.dawgsbynature.com/2013/8/12/4613610/peter-king-defends-his-remarks-on-bernie-kosar-refuses-to-apologizeChris Pokorny2013-08-11T20:39:26-04:002013-08-11T20:39:26-04:00Browns Drop the Ball in Reprimanding Bernie Kosar
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<figcaption>David Richard-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>To refer to Bernie Kosar's remarks as personal and unprofessional? Terrible, terrible move by the Browns that doesn't show support for a guy who doesn't deserve to be reprimanded whatsoever.</p> <p>First off, here is the good news: <b>Bernie Kosar</b> will still be calling preseason games for the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/">Cleveland Browns</a>. The bad news? In a statement released by CEO <b>Joe Banner</b>, the organization reprimanded Kosar, acknowledging the fact that he also called the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/st-louis-rams">Rams</a> organization to apologize to head coach <b>Jeff Fisher</b>.</p>
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<p>"We don’t condone the personal and unprofessional approach that Bernie took with some of his comments during the broadcast Thursday night," said Banner. "We’ve spoken to Bernie, he understands that, and we would expect the situation is resolved moving forward. We’ve also reached out to the Rams organization and have shared those same sentiments."</p>
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<p>The Browns dropped the ball here. Kosar was no different commentating during Thursday's broadcast against the Rams as he's been for over five years now. Fisher and the Rams are an organization that screwed over the Browns for <b><span>Robert Griffin III</span></b> a year ago. Fisher took a personal jab at Kosar, as did national writer <b>Peter King</b> of Sports Illustrated.</p>
<p>We wrote a <b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.dawgsbynature.com/2013/8/11/4611368/browns-bernie-kosar-the-real-representation-of-his-commentary-against">comprehensive article transcribing what Kosar <i>actually</i> said</a></b>, something that should have vindicated him. Instead, the Browns' statement gives some form of <b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.dawgsbynature.com/2013/8/10/4610102/browns-bernie-kosar-gets-criticized-by-jeff-fisher-peter-king">validation to the disgraceful remarks resorted to by Fisher and King</a></b>. I have been behind pretty much every move that the Browns' organization has made thus far, but they really dropped the ball here.</p>
<p>It would have been much more appropriate for Banner to release a statement saying that they have discussed the issue with Kosar, and anticipate that there won't be any issues moving forward. To refer to his remarks as personal and unprofessional? Terrible, terrible move that doesn't show support for a guy who doesn't deserve to be reprimanded whatsoever.</p>
<p>King has yet to apologize for insinuating that Kosar was drunk, either.</p>
<p><b>Memo to the Browns:</b> don't desensitize Kosar's preseason commentary. It is one of the few things that Browns fans have been able to look forward to during a decade of misery.</p>
https://www.dawgsbynature.com/2013/8/11/4612526/browns-drop-the-ball-in-reprimanding-bernie-kosarChris Pokorny2013-08-11T14:04:13-04:002013-08-11T14:04:13-04:00Kosar: A True Representation of His Commentary
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<figcaption> Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>People have misrepresented the context of Bernie Kosar's comments, acting like he just rambled a few of his quotes out of no where. Here, we will present many samples of Kosar's commentary throughout the game, which builds up to some of his critiques.</p> <p>Thanks to<a target="_blank" href="http://www.dawgsbynature.com/2013/8/10/4610102/browns-bernie-kosar-gets-criticized-by-jeff-fisher-peter-king"> the criticism by head coach <b>Jeff Fisher</b>, <b>Peter King</b></a><b></b>, and a few other members of the national media, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/">Cleveland Browns</a> color commentator <b>Bernie Kosar</b> has been painted as some "incoherent, drunken fool who has issues and went <i>way</i> too far with his criticisms of <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/st-louis-rams">Rams</a> players."</p>
<p>This should already be a candidate for the most absurd story of the year. Anyone who <i>actually listens</i> to Kosar's commentary and the game itself would know that his analysis is top-notch, his criticisms are justified (and sometimes tongue-in-cheek), and he knows just how to bring the right amount of humor to make preseason games watchable late into the second half.</p>
<p>The biggest deals have been made about Kosar calling the Rams receivers "horrible" and poking fun at QB <b>Kellen Clemens</b>. People have misrepresented the context, acting like he just rambled a few of his quotes out of no where. Here, we will present many samples of Kosar's commentary throughout the game, which builds up to some of his critiques. Enjoy.</p>
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<h3>Part 1 - Good Analysis and Insight<br>
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<p> </p>
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<a href="http://www.dawgsbynature.com/2013/8/10/4610102/browns-bernie-kosar-gets-criticized-by-jeff-fisher-peter-king">
<h2>Bernie Kosar Criticized by Jeff Fisher, Peter King<br>
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<img src="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/17697465/20120909_lbm_ar7_363.0_standard_709.0.jpg" width="200"></a> <span>St. Louis Rams head coach Jeff Fisher heard some of Kosar's critiques and responded to his remarks, as did Sports Illustrated's Peter King.</span>
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<p><br id="1376244672208"> The purpose of Part 1 is to disprove the fact that Kosar is some drunk, rambling fool who offers no analysis. These are just the first couple of plays of the game for the Browns and the Rams, and you can see the type of analysis that Kosar provides is nothing like what you would hear on regular CBS or FOX broadcasts for national games.</p>
<p>This first quote comes when the Browns bring their first blitz of the game on a 3rd-and-7. Bradford completes the pass to the sideline for a first down:</p>
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<p><b>Bernie Kosar:</b> "You could see the Browns, showing blitz there. <span>Sam Bradford</span>, going into his fourth year, should be able to easily read that that was a bluff on the blitz by the way the safety and the cornerbacks. Safety was way off, cornerbacks had outside techniques on both outside receivers. The linemen were fooled, as they usually are."</p>
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<p>Many people have acted like that Kosar isn't aware of the fact that this is just a "preseason game" and that things can and will play out differently during the regular season. Kosar acknowledges this fact early on, just like he's done for years:</p>
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<p><b>Bernie Kosar:</b> "Both defensive coaches, and this is for the first preseason game, won't be like this in the regular season. You can very easily read these coverages, so both Brandon [Weeden] and Sam Bradford should have a very good feel before the snap as to what the coverage is and where your open receiver could be."</p>
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<p>The Rams convert a successful screen play on the Browns, and Kosar describes what went wrong defensively. On the next play, the Rams fumble, and Kosar describes why he feels the play had no chance of working:</p>
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<p><b>Bernie Kosar:</b> "You can get away with this in preseason. That's man coverage -- in the NFL in the regular season, that guy is going to be tight on him, not typically letting the back get free like that. But, like D'Qwell had pass protection there, in man coverage, everybody just runs off. So if [Jackson] misses him, it's clear sailing to the second level of running."</p>
<p><b>Bernie Kosar:</b> "Yeah, definitely a fumble, as I was trying to say before the break, to see the overhead view, they're basically on the left hash, and into the boundary they put all of the receivers. In the NFL, every defensive guy is going to scrape and run right to that. That has no chance of success."</p>
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<p>With the Browns on offense, Kosar again goes into more detail on a few plays, first crediting <b><span>Brandon Weeden</span></b> for turning a called run play into a quick pass to a receiver, and then pointing out the usage of <b><span>Gary Barnidge</span></b> in a tight end competition:</p>
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<p><b>Bernie Kosar:</b> "That was actually a running play to the left. This is eye contact between the quarterback and the receiver. When you have a defensive back off 8-10 yards like that on your receiver, you can get the ball up and down to him quick before the linemen get down field and the refs call illegal man downfield on the running back."</p>
<p><b>Bernie Kosar:</b> "Also here, notice that Barnidge is in. He comes over with Chud from Carolina. He's probably one of the better blocking tight ends that we have. And, Jordan Cameron drops that ball (brief laugh) in the red zone. Now he's not in the game and Barnidge is."</p>
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<p>On these next two plays, first Kosar praises the Browns' coaching staff for having a similar look on the play the Rams fumbled on earlier, but doing it the correct way with a screen. Then, he breaks down <b><span>Jordan Cameron's</span></b> big 30-yard catch-and-run:</p>
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<p><b>Bernie Kosar:</b> "That was the formation I was just complaining about with St. Louis. But here, you see Coach [Norv] Turner calls it the way you're supposed to -- the ball is on the left hash, you have all the receivers to the right. St. Louis is thinking the ball is going to be coming to the right, then you do a little playaction pass screen back to the right side, catches St. Louis undisciplined in the rush lanes. That's why you see a big play like that."</p>
<p><b>Bernie Kosar:</b> "Nice timing on just a basic crossing route here. You can see St. Louis and Coach Fisher's a man-coverage, pressure team. They've been playing a lot of base cover-3 today, they just don't have the discipline and structure to play zone coverage and blow the slot flat coverage lane. Cameron's able to catch the ball, and not only catch it, but turn it up and make a big play."</p>
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<h3>Part II - Dropped Passes<br>
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<p>This next part is a combination of Kosar's takes on QB <b>Sam Bradford</b>, some drops by Rams receivers, and a few other nuggets. What has been portrayed is that Kosar offers no praise toward the Rams' players and is only interested in slamming them. We'll see.</p>
<p>On this first case, the Rams' running back who just fumbled almost makes a huge mistake by taking a kickoff out of the end zone. He drops to a quick knee about one centimeter away from coming out of the end zone, while looking up the whole time. Very risky:</p>
<p><a href="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/3040345/ramspead2.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Ramspead2_medium" class="photo" src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/3040345/ramspead2_medium.jpg"></a> <br id="1376242038979"></p>
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<p><b>Bernie Kosar:</b> "Well, look at his head (laughing), look at his head the whole way. He must be very religious, or he needs to be. That was very fortunate to stop that quick."</p>
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<p>Here goes the first drop by a Rams receiver. Kosar praises Bradford for the throw and understands where he's at in his career. He doesn't harp on the receivers yet, because this is just the first drop. That's fair. Well, there <i>was</i> actually a drop by a wide open running back on the previous possession which Kosar also let slide by, so we'll put the tally at two drops so far:</p>
<p><a href="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/3040333/ramsdrop3.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Ramsdrop3_medium" class="photo" src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/3040333/ramsdrop3_medium.jpg"></a> <br id="1376242138528"></p>
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<p><b>Bernie Kosar:</b> "Just basic cover-3, only rushing four. Horrible job by the offensive line, and a BEAUTIFUL throw by Sam Bradford under pressure. "<br><b>Jim Donovan: </b>"Do you like Bradford?"<br><b>Bernie Kosar:</b> "I like that play right there. I haven't seen enough of him. He's really at the crossroads of his career. Does he take that next step to get into the level that his athleticism says he should be?"</p>
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<p>Next up, on a third-down play, WR <b><span>Tavon Austin</span></b> has a chance at making a third-down catch, but can't catch the pass. As a former quarterback, Kosar offers some sympathy for Bradford. It's justified, too -- the Rams receivers have been notoriously bad for the past few years. It's not like he's going out on a limb here:</p>
<p><a href="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/3040335/ramsdrop4.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Ramsdrop4_medium" class="photo" src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/3040335/ramsdrop4_medium.jpg"></a> <br id="1376242286696"></p>
<blockquote>
<p><b>Bernie Kosar:</b> "Again, nice job by Bradford standing in there. I really think that he didn't overthrow him, and that Austin has to make that catch in the NFL. And I see why Sam's been struggling watching how bad these receivers are for him. Those are two outstanding throws, those last two."</p>
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<p>Bradford then completes a bomb on our secondary, and Kosar again praises Bradford for a great throw:</p>
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<p><b>Bernie Kosar:</b> "There's going to be a lot of grumpy defensive coaches here. That's just base cover-3, that's a zone coverage. There should be a weak safety in the middle of the field there. Beautiful throw by Sam Bradford there, that's awesome."</p>
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<p>Lastly, Bradford finishes off the drive with a touchdown pass, and Kosar again compliments him for a fantastic series, in spite of what his receivers did:</p>
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<p><b>Bernie Kosar:</b> "Sam had the guy wide open in the flat for the easy touchdown. He purposely throws this high to get it over the linebacker's head. This is perfect accuracy. I loved watching him throw the ball, that was a fantastic series. That'll be the last we see of Sam tonight."</p>
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<p>We're only in the second quarter here, and this is when one of Kosar's most criticized quotes takes place. This early in the game, he has already seen <u>four drops</u> by receivers, all of which were pretty open and would have moved the chains. What is wrong with being critical? As for the joke at the end, Kosar was asked about it and just responded in an amusing way. Players are going to face criticism their whole career. This was <i>nothing</i>, yet for some bizarre reason, Kosar is being painted as the most vile commentator in the history of all of football? If you're looking for over-the-top reactions, that falls on the shoulders of some Rams fans, <b>Peter King</b>, and <b>Jeff Fisher</b>:</p>
<blockquote>
<p><b>Jim Donovan:</b> "Davis, throwing, incomplete, off the hands of his intended receiver, <span>Nick Johnson</span>, who was free out over the 35-yard line. St. Louis will have to give the ball back on a punt."<br><b>Bernie Kosar:</b> "Yeah, a blitz to the top of the screen. It's actually not a bad throw...these St. Louis receivers are horrible. That's a drop there on the out-and-up on the go. The guy does his break four yards in front of the DB."<br><b>Jim Donovan:</b> (laughing) "What if some of their parents are watching?"<br><b>Bernie Kosar:</b> "(laughing with him) I would be embarrassed."</p>
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<p>Again, a funny remark that helps make preseason games entertaining for the audience, rather than a snooze-fest:</p>
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<p><b>Bernie Kosar:</b> "I'm checking through the itinerary of guys and coaches to see who the receivers coach is, to make sure I don't know who this guy is, because he's not doing very good either."</p>
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<p>To dispel the belief that Kosar never criticizes Cleveland players, here is a critique he had for WR <b><span>Cordell Roberson</span></b> on the Browns. There were other quotes regarding the Browns, but I did not transcribe all of them. This one represented my point well enough:</p>
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<p><b>Bernie Kosar: </b>"I'm not trying to be a homer to take care of our quarterback here. This young receiver's been doing a nice job in camp on the outside routes. Here he is coming out of a six route, coming out of a square in, he came out, but he didn't get out of it sharply. Actually, Brian Hoyer's pass was perfect if the receiver runs the route the way an NFL receiver is supposed to run routes."</p>
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<p>Here is yet another drop by a Rams receiver, again right in his hands. We can't allow Kosar to be critical of poor receiver play? Why wasn't he more critical of the Browns in this game? Because there might have only been one drop by our unit the whole game. We're already up to about six dropped passes by the Rams:</p>
<p><a href="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/3040343/ramsdrop6.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Ramsdrop6_medium" class="photo" src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/3040343/ramsdrop6_medium.jpg"></a> <br id="1376242748673"></p>
<blockquote>
<p><b>Bernie Kosar:</b> "Again, I've been harsh on these receivers. This is a very nice throw, it's where it's supposed to be. God (sigh). Geez, he puts it in his pocket, what more do you want? Although I do like the way <span>Trevin Wade</span> stuck in there and hit his arm a little early to throw his balance off. But still, you have to catch that ball."</p>
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<h3>Part III - Kellen Clemens<br>
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<p> </p>
<div class="sidebar">
<a href="http://www.dawgsbynature.com/2013/8/10/4608684/game-review-browns-look-impressive-in-27-19-preaseason-win-over-rams">
<h2>Pokorny's Game Review: Rams vs. Browns<br>
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<img src="http://cdn2.sbnation.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/17681365/20130808_gav_aa1_025.0_standard_709.0.jpg" width="200"></a> <span>The Cleveland Browns opened the preseason with a 27-19 victory over the St. Louis Rams. Chris breaks down a few of the key plays that led Cleveland to victory.</span>
</div>
<p>Now we get into the fun of ragging on QB <b>Kellen Clemens</b>. Kosar explains his pre-formed opinion about Clemens, but that part (of course) gets left out by the critics. Kosar starts off by criticizing the Rams' No. 2 quarterback (not Clemens) for making a throw into double coverage, and wishing he had a telestrator. That's when his play-by-play man chimes in, and Kosar retorts about his desire not to have to watch Clemens soon:</p>
<blockquote>
<p><b>Bernie Kosar:</b> "I'm going to trade any amount of money I get to announce these games for a telestrator. For that read (laughing) to be thrown into double coverage like that, I mean that's blatantly man underneath, safety over the top. No good coordinator wants that on film that that's how you coach things."</p>
<p><b>Jim Donovan: </b>"(laughing) Now if you're a good boy the rest of the night, maybe we'll get the telestrator."<br><b>Bernie Kosar: </b>"(laughing) I won't be because the next quarterback in [Clemens], me and him haven't done too well with each other too."</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Before we get to the Clemens talk officially, here's one more humorous situation:</p>
<blockquote>
<p><b>Bernie Kosar:</b> [pre-snap] "They've got press coverage outside. St. Louis hasn't taken advantage of it all day." [QB turns and hands the ball off] "And they still don't."</p>
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<p>Here is the explanation of why he has a negative opinion on Clemens already. Remember, he had seen Clemens five years earlier face the Browns in 2008:</p>
<blockquote>
<p><b>Jim Donovan:</b> "Kellen Clemens is in at quarterback."<br><b>Bernie Kosar:</b> "I've been waiting for this one all day. The last time I was a bad boy and I was punished (laughing) to watch him play quarterback, was the day <span>Brett Favre</span> was traded to the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.ganggreennation.com/">New York Jets</a>. The Jets were playing the Browns in the preseason game. Kellen Clemens was supposed to be their starting quarterback and I saw why they traded for Brett Favre."</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Kosar's commentary is nothing new, so why is a big deal being made of it now? Because Fisher and the Rams fanbase is soft? I went back to my DBN archives in 2008, and I actually made a bullet point note on Kosar's commentary from that Jets game:</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Bernie Rules: All hail Bernie Kosar again for his beautiful work in the announcer's booth Thursday night. His constant bashing of the Jets' plays, intelligence on plays that were/should be run, and all-around wit made the game worth watching until the final seconds. One thing though: his man-crush on <span>Ken Dorsey</span> remains, even though the guy went 0-for-12 in his last 12 attempts and was sacked numerous times in between.</p>
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<p>It doesn't take long for Kosar to soften up a bit on Clemens, saying that he wants to see if things have changed:</p>
<blockquote>
<p><b>Bernie Kosar:</b> "He's been in the league for quite a few years. I hope things have progressed. That day, he was playing with the first-teamers against the first-teamers. Now, as a veteran quarterback, playing against the third- or fourth-string guys, he should have an opportunity to steal completions like the veteran quarterbacks for the Browns have the last few quarters."</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Here is the context of what was said regarding the Pope:</p>
<blockquote>
<p><b>Jim Donovan:</b> "Now I want to throw a trivia question at you. Who is the most famous person who Kellen Clemens has given an autograph to? I don't think you'll ever guess."<br><b>Bernie Kosar:</b> "(laughing) I don't think I'd ever want his. Geez, we've got press coverage here, please throw the ball up the field."</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Before the trivia question is answered, Kosar explains why he thinks Clemens made a bad decision, despite lucking out a first down completion:</p>
<blockquote>
<p><b>Bernie Kosar: </b>"Even though that pass is completed, even though its a first down, you see all that traffic in there. There's freed up linebackers and the extra safety in there. There's double coverage, in and outs, on all that underneath stuff. And there's two single receivers, both on the outside, and he throws the ball in the middle. You can't make a living doing that."</p>
</blockquote>
<p>And now the stuff on Clemens:</p>
<blockquote>
<p><b>Jim Donovan:</b> "The most famous person who got an autograph from Kellen Clemens? Pope Benedict is the answer."<br><b>Bernie Kosar:</b> "(laughs) Bless me father, for I have sinned. I have to watch him the whole fourth quarter."<br><b>Jim Donovan:</b> "He was at a mass celebrated by the Pope at Washington National Stadium. The Pope reached out and grabbed his child and kissed his child, and he signed the Pope's mitar."<br><b>Bernie Kosar: </b>"God, you're killing me. My Catholic guilt here, I'm talking that I can't stand watching him play and he does such a nice thing like that. That's great...but he still can't play quarterback."</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Less than three seconds later, Clemens throws a pass that gets tipped at the line and intercepted. Poetry at its finest, folks.</p>
<p>A little bit later, Clemens makes a good, strong throw one play after he also avoided a sack. Kosar backs off on his earlier jabbing and gives him his props:</p>
<blockquote>
<p><b>Bernie Kosar:</b> "Ok, I've been rough on Clemens here, but you see why he gets drafted high in the second round and people like him. The play before, he does have the physical strength to get rid of the sack, and then the arm strength to make that throw."</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Oh, boy. The Rams have a chance to tie the game in the final minute, and we have <i>another</i> drop by a wide open Rams receiver on a deep pass:</p>
<p><a href="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/3040351/ramsdrop7.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Ramsdrop7_medium" class="photo" src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/3040351/ramsdrop7_medium.jpg"></a> <br id="1376243444426"></p>
<blockquote>
<p><b>Bernie Kosar:</b> "That's the man coverage I was just talking about. You give him an opportunity for a big play like that. This is absolutely perfect (the throw), after the comment about the Pope on [Clemens], some divine intervention is helping out. He does a beautiful throw, that kid [Radway], if he wants to make the team or any team, you just can't do that."</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Lastly, on the final Hail Mary attempt of the game, the Rams' receiver has the ball at first, but a Browns linebacker rips it away for an interception.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><b>Bernie Kosar:</b> "That's so appropriate for the game to end like that. On a Hail Mary, the Rams receiver Blake -- it hits him right between the 1 and the 6, he has it in his chest. That's really bad if you're a St. Louis fan."</p>
</blockquote>
<h3>In Closing</h3>
<p>There you have it. Kosar was at his finest again, but he wasn't drunk and he wasn't incoherent. He catered to a Cleveland audience, but was justified in his criticisms or explained some of his pre-formed opinions. I'd listen to Kosar call Browns games every week if I could, and I hope he doesn't change a bit for the rest of the preseason and moving forward in wake of the criticisms by people who, quite frankly, either don't know what they are talking about or jumped the gun without actually giving Kosar a fair listen.</p>
https://www.dawgsbynature.com/2013/8/11/4611368/browns-bernie-kosar-the-real-representation-of-his-commentary-againstChris Pokorny2013-08-10T21:44:06-04:002013-08-10T21:44:06-04:00Bernie Kosar Criticized by Jeff Fisher, Peter King
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/zjYKhcBxs-PGVDEetJ6ZKDb3Kx8=/0x111:4000x2778/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/17697405/20120909_lbm_ar7_363.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>David Richard-US PRESSWIRE</figcaption>
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<p>St. Louis Rams head coach Jeff Fisher heard some of Kosar's critiques and responded to his remarks, but not in a very kind fashion. Peter King of Sports Illustrated then jumped in, without listening, and accused Kosar of being drunk.</p> <p>There is an affection that <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/">Cleveland Browns</a> fans have for quarterback <b>Bernie Kosar</b>. He is beloved by many not only for his time as a player and some of the personal interactions he has had with fans, but also for the commentary he has provided on the team's preseason broadcasts, along with Jim Donovan, for years.</p>
<p>When someone first listens to Kosar speak, they are under the impression that he is drunk, based on the speech he has. We are well aware of the personal issues Kosar has had, but the fact is <i>this is how he speaks</i>, plain and simple. It grows on you. His commentary and analysis is very good, from explaining some pre-snap reads and coverages to telling a few personal stories based on interactions with players.</p>
<p> </p>
<div class="read-more">
<b>More</b>: <a target="_blank" href="http://www.dawgsbynature.com/2013/8/10/4608684/game-review-browns-look-impressive-in-27-19-preaseason-win-over-rams">Pokorny's Game Review: Rams vs. Browns</a>
</div>
<p>Then, the best part comes when he criticizes players down the depth chart -- particularly those on the other team -- for making mistakes that could cost them a roster spot. Are families of opposing teams listening, hoping their "kid" can make it? Maybe, and I understand why they don't <i>want</i> to hear criticism. But guess what? Kosar's criticism is <i>nothing</i> compared to what these players will face in their career. I've always felt it's a little bit tongue-in-cheek, too -- Kosar knows very well that he's being a little over-the-top critical, but it's part of what makes...<i>the second half of a preseason game watchable</i>. I don't tune out because I <i>want</i> to hear what Kosar has to say.</p>
<p>What is the point of all of this? Apparently, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/st-louis-rams">St. Louis Rams</a> head coach <b>Jeff Fisher</b> heard some of Kosar's critiques and responded to his remarks, but not in a very kind fashion (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.stlouisrams.com/media-center/videos/Head-Coach-Jeff-Fisher-Press-Conference/ae5bff26-0d19-494e-a0b0-7943f9cce87e">you can listen to Fisher's comments here</a>):</p>
<blockquote>
<p>"First off, let me say this: the Cleveland Browns' organization is a first class organization from top to bottom and it has been that for years and years and years. I guess I'm a little disappointed. I feel bad for them that they had someone doing their broadcast feel the need to speak that way about players, specifically on our team and coaches for that matter.</p>
<p>I'm just surprised that Bernie has such a lack of respect for players and this game. To be honest with you, I lost a lot of respect for him. It's highly unlikely he knew anything about our football team, but felt the need to make those comments. I don't think they were justified.</p>
<p>Bernie's got his issues; they're well documented. Kellen [Clemens] played well, he played hard, he made plays."</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Maybe Fisher should have had his backup quarterback and receivers more prepared? To provide some context, Kosar prefaced his criticism of <b>Kellen Clemens</b> with the fact that he had an opinion of him from a terrible preseason outing he had a member of the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.ganggreennation.com/">New York Jets</a>. That came back in 2008, when Clemens went 4-of-6 for 31 yards. What did Clemens do five years later, right after Kosar announced his displeasure at having to watch Clemens? He got hit and threw an interception. Choice.</p>
<p>Also, is Fisher okay with half of his receivers dropping easy passes? Kosar calling the players out made him lose respect for him? I thought Fisher of all people would have some thick skin.</p>
<p>And then, there is Peter King of Sports Illustrated. I have been a big supporter of King for over a decade, while others on here have expressed their disdain for him. I was set off by his take on the Kosar situation, though:</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p>EARTH CITY, Mo.--My question for Kosar after comments in Cle-StL preseason game: Were you drinking? Good guy. But waaay over the top here.</p>
— Peter King (@SI_PeterKing) <a href="https://twitter.com/SI_PeterKing/statuses/366353095086710784">August 11, 2013</a>
</blockquote>
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<p>Kosar called WRs, including 1st-rd pick <span>Tavon Austin</span> "horrible.'' Said their parents "would be embarrassed'' if they were watching game ....</p>
— Peter King (@SI_PeterKing) <a href="https://twitter.com/SI_PeterKing/statuses/366357835161931776">August 11, 2013</a>
</blockquote>
<p>
<script src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p>Kosar on <span>Kellen Clemens</span>: "Bless me Father for I have sinned. I have to watch him the whole fourth quarter."</p>
— Peter King (@SI_PeterKing) <a href="https://twitter.com/SI_PeterKing/statuses/366357977931857921">August 11, 2013</a>
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<p>
<script src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p>If Kosar's judgment has been impacted by concussions, then the Browns should be heavily criticized for putting him on a 3-hr telecast,</p>
— Peter King (@SI_PeterKing) <a href="https://twitter.com/SI_PeterKing/statuses/366359380603568128">August 11, 2013</a>
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<p>
<script src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
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<p>Don't go saying, "Bernie doesn't know what he's saying because of concussions." Doesn't work that way. If you're on air, you're responsible.</p>
— Peter King (@SI_PeterKing) <a href="https://twitter.com/SI_PeterKing/statuses/366359781537095681">August 11, 2013</a>
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<p>
<script src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p>King is way out of line with his comments for a few reasons. Here is the <i>actual</i> exchange and context between the Browns' announcers, after a drop by a St. Louis receiver:</p>
<blockquote>
<p><b>Jim Donovan:</b> "Davis, throwing, incomplete, off the hands of his intended receiver, <span>Nick Johnson</span>, who was free out over the 35-yard line. St. Louis will have to give the ball back on a punt."</p>
<p><b>Bernie Kosar:</b> "Yeah, a blitz to the top of the screen. It's actually not a bad throw...these St. Louis receivers are horrible. That's a drop there on the out-and-up on the go. The guy does his break four yards in front of the DB."</p>
<p><b>Jim Donovan:</b> (laughing) "What if some of their parents are watching?"</p>
<p><b>Bernie Kosar:</b> "(laughing with him) I would be embarrassed."</p>
</blockquote>
<p>First off, Kosar never said anything about WR <b>Tavon Austin</b> being horrible. He was generalizing about the receivers based on a few drops and poorly run routes. I guarantee you that King did not listen to what Kosar actually said, and is just going based off Fisher and a few other people who are being critical of him. If King had a shred of journalistic integrity left in him, he would apologize for making such hack comments and failing to do any true digging into the matter. Also, maybe Sports Illustrated should be heavily criticized for giving King "his own website." Does anyone actually care about that thing besides his standard Monday column?</p>
<p>A few other media members wanted to jump in on the "let's slam Kosar" party:</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p>Bernie Kosar the QB > Bernie Kosar the talent evaluator.</p>
— Daniel Jeremiah (@MoveTheSticks) <a href="https://twitter.com/MoveTheSticks/statuses/366362729151332353">August 11, 2013</a>
</blockquote>
<p>
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<p>Really, Daniel? <a target="_blank" href="http://www.dawgsbynature.com/2012/8/25/3268765/bernie-kosar-tried-to-get-browns-to-draft-te-jimmy-graham">Ever heard of <b>Jimmy Graham</b></a><b></b>? Sounds like we've got another hack on our hands who didn't bother to do any actual digging.</p>
<p>Even if Kosar is biased toward the Browns...<i>who cares</i>? <b>This is a Cleveland Browns preseason feed</b>. This is not a national broadcast on CBS, FOX, NBC, or ESPN. He is under no obligation to be impartial, nor should he be. These preseason games are being <a target="_blank" href="http://www.dawgsbynature.com/2013/8/9/4606644/how-many-people-in-cleveland-watched-the-browns-first-preseason-game">heavily watched in the Cleveland market</a>. Shouldn't that be the audience he caters to?</p>
https://www.dawgsbynature.com/2013/8/10/4610102/browns-bernie-kosar-gets-criticized-by-jeff-fisher-peter-kingChris Pokorny