Dawgs By Nature - Cleveland Browns vs. Detroit Lions - Week 1 of the NFL PreseasonA Cleveland Browns bloghttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/48679/dawgsbynature-fave.png2014-08-12T23:03:55-04:00http://www.dawgsbynature.com/rss/stream/57500962014-08-12T23:03:55-04:002014-08-12T23:03:55-04:00Pokorny's Game Review: Browns vs. Lions
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<figcaption>Leon Halip</figcaption>
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<p>Chris Pokorny breaks down the Cleveland Browns' 13-12 loss to the Detroit Lions.</p> <p>Take a look at the following opening-week preseason performances by <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/">Browns</a> quarterbacks since 2010:</p>
<ul>
<li> <b>2010:</b> <span>Jake Delhomme</span>, 6-of-7 for 66 yards.</li>
<li> <b>2011:</b> Colt McCoy, 9-of-10 for 135 yards, 1 touchdown.</li>
<li> <b>2012:</b> <span>Brandon Weeden</span>, 3-of-9, 62 yards, 1 interception.</li>
<li> <b>2013:</b> Brandon Weeden, 10-of-13 for 112 yards, 1 touchdown.</li>
</ul>
<p>Aside from when Weeden was a rookie, we've seen some pretty decent performances. As we later found out, statistical performances by <b>Jake Delhomme</b>, <b>Colt McCoy</b>, and <b>Brandon Weeden</b> weren't very indicative of how well things were going to go in the regular season.</p>
<p>That is why I decided to change my outlook heading into this year's preseason -- sure, it would have been nice to see <b><span>Brian Hoyer</span></b> and <b>Johnny Manziel</b> toss a bunch of touchdowns, but you can't expect such perfection in a quarter's worth of action. I don't envy head coach <b>Mike Pettine</b>, offensive coordinator <b>Kyle Shanahan</b>, and quarterbacks coach<b> Dowell Loggains</b> for having to choose a winner between the two quarterbacks, because you can make a legitimate case for both guys.</p>
<p>The quarterback battle wasn't the only thing I paid attention to on Saturday, though. Let's get to my first complete game review of the year.</p>
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<th style="font-size: 16px; background: #df6208; text-align: center; color: white;" colspan="6"> <span><span><span class="sbn-auto-link">Cleveland Browns vs. <span class="sbn-auto-link">Detroit Lions</span></span></span></span> </th>
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<th style="font-size: 14px; background: #64390a; text-align: center; color: white;" width="85"><br></th> <th style="font-size: 14px; background: #64390a; text-align: center; color: white;" width="67">1st</th> <th style="font-size: 14px; background: #64390a; text-align: center; color: white;" width="67">2nd</th> <th style="font-size: 14px; background: #64390a; text-align: center; color: white;" width="67">3rd</th> <th style="font-size: 14px; background: #64390a; text-align: center; color: white;" width="67">4th</th> <th style="font-size: 14px; background: #64390a; text-align: center; color: white;" width="67">FINAL<br> </th>
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<td style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/images/network_sports/logos/NFL/CLE.v66f65cd.png"></td>
<td style="text-align: center; vertical-align: middle; border-left: 1px solid black; font-size: 30px;">3<br>
</td>
<td style="text-align: center; vertical-align: middle; border-left: 1px solid black; font-size: 30px;">3<br>
</td>
<td style="text-align: center; vertical-align: middle; border-left: 1px solid black; font-size: 30px;">3<br>
</td>
<td style="text-align: center; vertical-align: middle; border-left: 1px solid black; font-size: 30px;">3<br>
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<td style="text-align: center; vertical-align: middle; border-left: 1px solid black; background: #ffffcc; font-size: 30px;"><b>12</b></td>
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<td style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/images/network_sports/logos/NFL/DET.v67456f2.png"></td>
<td style="text-align: center; vertical-align: middle; border-left: 1px solid black; font-size: 30px;">3<br>
</td>
<td style="text-align: center; vertical-align: middle; border-left: 1px solid black; font-size: 30px;">3<br>
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<td style="text-align: center; vertical-align: middle; border-left: 1px solid black; font-size: 30px;">0<br>
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<td style="text-align: center; vertical-align: middle; border-left: 1px solid black; font-size: 30px;">7<br>
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<td style="text-align: center; vertical-align: middle; border-left: 1px solid black; background: #ffffcc; font-size: 30px;"><b>13</b></td>
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<td style="background: #64390a;" colspan="6"><u><b><br></b></u></td>
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<p><u><b> </b></u></p>
<p align="center"><u><b>PRESEASON WEEK 1 - </b></u><u><b><u>CLEVELAND BROWNS</u> VS. DETROIT LIONS (COMPLETE GAME REVIEW)</b></u></p>
<ol>
<li> <b> Goat of the Game: </b>RB <b><span class="sbn-auto-link"><span>Dion Lewis</span></span></b> - We were on the verge of seeing the Browns put together their first touchdown-scoring drive of the game in the third quarter. QB <b>Johnny Manziel</b> had just scrambled for a first down on 4th-and-1, and on the next play, Lewis tried to do a jump cut through the line on a running play and had the ball poked away for a fumble and a turnover.<br><br>One fumble doesn't change my personal opinion of Lewis, who I think can still be a great change-of-pace receiving back for this team. Heck, even RB <b>Ben Tate</b> had a fumble with the first-teamers, and it kind of went under-the-radar because we recovered the ball. Lewis' fumble came at a time where Cleveland could have taken command of the game, and roster bubble players have a much less room for error.<br> <br> </li>
<li> <b>Awarding the Game Ball: </b>DE <b><span>Armonty Bryant</span></b> - When I looked at the Browns' roster this offseason, I pinned Bryant at the 7th defensive lineman. Although I liked what he brought to the table in limited action last season, my thinking was that with a new coaching staff in place, he might not have a secure spot, especially if an undrafted free agent steps up his game. Boy, was I wrong or what. <br> <a href="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/assets/4893056/def3a.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Def3a_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn1.vox-cdn.com/assets/4893056/def3a_medium.png"></a> <br id="1407893408391"> <br>Bryant finished the game with two quarterback hits but showed an impressive burst of speed that is just as dynamic as what I've seen from OLB <b>Barkevious Mingo</b>. The way he closed on backup QB <b><span>Dan Orlovsky</span></b> on a 3rd-and-1 play to prevent a completion is the type of finish that will warrant him receiving regular season reps in those situations.<br><br> </li>
<li> <b>Linebackers Who Can Cover:</b> This offseason, the Browns signed ILB <b><span>Karlos Dansby</span></b> and drafted ILB <b>Chris Kirksey</b> to improve the quality of coverage at the position, and it was certainly on display against the Lions. Kirksey helped defend two passes through the air, including one down the sideline, earning him a +2.3 coverage grade from PFF. Even ILB <b>Craig Robertson</b>, who struggled in coverage a year ago, did a good job distracting a Lions running back on a pass over the middle. For the moment, though, I want to showcase two plays involving Dansby.<br> <a href="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889556/def1a.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Def1a_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn1.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889556/def1a_medium.png"></a> <br id="1407847548847"> <br>In the screenshot above, the Browns bring a lot of defenders up to the line on 3rd-and-7 of QB <b>Matthew Stafford's</b> only drive of the game. There are two safeties back and out-of-the-picture. The Browns are going to bring a blitz from a defensive back at the top of the screen. To fill the void in coverage, Dansby is going to drop toward the middle to cover the tight end.<br id="1407847558862"> <a href="http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889564/def1b.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Def1b_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889564/def1b_medium.png"></a> <br id="1407847594079"> <br>OLB <b><span>Paul Kruger</span></b> gets good penetration, allowing a free lane for the defensive back. Dansby, on the far left side of the screenshot, is covering his man well enough to where Stafford has to chuck the ball out of the end zone, forcing Detroit to settle for a field goal.<br> <br> </li>
<li> <b>Dansby's Seen it Before:</b> Sticking with ILB <b>Karlos Dansby</b>, he recognized a screen pass during the game and nearly intercepted the pass.<br> <a href="http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889530/def2a.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Def2a_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889530/def2a_medium.png"></a> <br id="1407847929845"> <br>Dansby is the played I circled above. He is going to initially come forward as part of the pass rush.<br> <a href="http://cdn1.vox-cdn.com/assets/4893054/def2b.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Def2b_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/assets/4893054/def2b_medium.png"></a> <br id="1407893210616"> <br>Dansby spots the screen and puts on the brakes.<br> <a href="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889548/def2c.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Def2c_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn1.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889548/def2c_medium.png"></a> <br id="1407847952387"> <br>He immediately gets into position to intercept the pass, to the point where the running back grabs on to him to prevent it. The officials originally threw a flag for offensive pass interference, but picked it up because the ball was thrown behind the line of scrimmage, so the contact was legal. Dansby looked a little shaky with some of his tackling, but I liked the early instincts against the pass.<br> <br> </li>
<li> <b>First Offensive Play:</b> What is cool about going to so many training camp sessions is that you basically get to see the Browns run some of their basic practice plays during a preseason game.<br> <a href="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/assets/4893078/off1a.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Off1a_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/assets/4893078/off1a_medium.png"></a> <br id="1407893269803"> <br>QB <b>Brian Hoyer</b> and the Browns opened with a simple route. At the top of the screen and closest to Hoyer is TE <b>Jim Dray</b>. As you can see, the coverage is well off of Dray.<br> <a href="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889596/off1b.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Off1b_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889596/off1b_medium.png"></a> <br id="1407848054989"> <br>As soon as he takes the snap, Hoyer is committed to throwing the ball to Dray, who picks up four yards on the play.<br> <br> </li>
<li> <b>Big Plans for <span>MarQueis Gray</span>:</b> If we are going off of the first game only, then FB <b>MarQueis Gray</b> is going to be a significant part of the offense this year. I envision him being utilized in a role that would have been somewhat suitable for WR <b>Joshua Cribbs</b> back in the day, except that the coaching staff actually values Gray as someone who will see maybe 50% of the snaps per game. <br><br>We actually got to see quarterbacks get the ball to Gray in this game, as opposed to last year when it became a running gag that the ball would always sail 20 feet over his head despite being open. Besides that, though, Grey's blocking on carries by RB <b>Ben Tate</b> made me all-the-more impressed.<br> <a href="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/4893038/off2a.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Off2a_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/assets/4893038/off2a_medium.png"></a> <br id="1407893281811"> <br>I only took one screenshot of the play above, but Grey is going to meet the cyan defender in the hole, aiding Tate's ability to pick up 8 yards on his first carry of the game.<br> <a href="http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889604/off2b.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Off2b_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889604/off2b_medium.png"></a> <br id="1407848355356"> <br>Two plays later, Grey is going to cut down the defender on the end of the line. He has the quickness to get over there right away.<br> <a href="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889588/off2c.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Off2c_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn1.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889588/off2c_medium.png"></a> <br id="1407848367320"> <br>If you strain your eyes, you can see Grey eliminating the defender from the play. Tate only picks up a yard here, but Grey proved he can play a versatile role and be used both as a receiver and a blocker.<br> <br> </li>
<li> <b>Hoyer A Little High:</b> Nobody can deny WR <b>Josh Gordon</b> on the dig routes. I was amazed last year when teams continued allowing him to have one-on-one matchups in those situations, and that's what we had here.<br> <a href="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889606/off3a.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Off3a_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889606/off3a_medium.png"></a> <br id="1407848460710"> <br>WR <b>Miles Austin</b> is in the slot, running a deep pattern to clear out the middle of the field for Gordon, who is at the top of the screen. FB <b>MarQueis Gray</b> goes toward the sideline to occupy the underneath coverage.<br> <a href="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/4893030/off3b.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Off3b_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/assets/4893030/off3b_medium.png"></a> <br id="1407893292806"> <br>QB <b>Brian Hoyer</b> has a good pocket, but he uncharacteristically misses, throwing the ball well over Gordon's head. More times than not, Hoyer makes a good throw here, so I think a takeaway you have to make is that he had good protection and still recognized the best place to go with the ball.<br> <br> </li>
<li> <b>Hoyer Right on Target:</b> This is the type of consistency I've come to expect from Hoyer.<br> <a href="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889644/off4a.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Off4a_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889644/off4a_medium.png"></a> <br id="1407848540891"> <br>On his third drive of the game, WR <b>Josh Gordon</b> is at the top of the screen. He's going to be running a slightly shorter dig route than he did earlier in the game. The play itself is very similar, except that the receiver who runs deep down the middle is now at the bottom of the screen.<br> <a href="http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889656/off4b.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Off4b_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889656/off4b_medium.png"></a> <br id="1407848547717"> <br>Once again, Hoyer has a beautiful pocket to throw from. He will thrive off of this type of protection.<br> <a href="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889630/off4c.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Off4c_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889630/off4c_medium.png"></a> <br id="1407848556618"> <br>Bang -- there is the throw, right on target. I'm already getting spoiled thinking that we will have Gordon at our disposal this season. If Gordon's not available for an extended period of time, I don't know who tries to fill that void in the offense.<br> <br> </li>
<li> <b>The Attention Gordon Commands:</b> Sticking with Gordon, remember the play in which QB <b>Brian Hoyer</b> rolled to his left and threw a perfect pass to WR <b>Miles Austin</b>?<br> <a href="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/assets/4893022/off5a.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Off5a_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn1.vox-cdn.com/assets/4893022/off5a_medium.png"></a> <br id="1407893304965"> <br>Austin was facing a one-on-one matchup down the field. As Hoyer was rolling left, WR <b>Josh Gordon</b> was running a shorter pattern. Look at the amount of defenders who are swarming his way, vacating the open spot for Austin.<br> <a href="http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889652/off5b.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Off5b_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889652/off5b_medium.png"></a> <br id="1407848609235"> <br>From this freeze frame, you would have thought Austin caught the ball, but he didn't.<br> <br> </li>
<li> <b>Good Sell & Quick Release by Hoyer:</b> When the Browns put QB <b>Brian Hoyer</b> in for QB <b>Brandon Weeden</b> last season, one of the first things we noticed was that <b>Norv Turner</b> put in the WR screens and quick passes, because he knew how quickly Hoyer could make up his mind and get the ball out.<br> <a href="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889628/off6a.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Off6a_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn1.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889628/off6a_medium.png"></a> <br id="1407848678807"> <br>On this play, Hoyer sells a fake to the running back, which has the defense chasing RB <b>Terrance West</b>. All in a smooth motion, Hoyer has the ball darting out to (again) WR <b>Josh Gordon</b>, who picks up 10 yards and a first down.<br> <br> </li>
<li> <b>Can't Place the Ball Any Better:</b> Facing a 3rd-and-goal, QB <b>Brian Hoyer</b> went for WR <b>Josh Gordon</b> again.<br> <a href="http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889654/off7a.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Off7a_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889654/off7a_medium.png"></a> <br id="1407848732591"> <br>That's a tough throw, but the ball placement by Hoyer is perfect. Gordon couldn't come down with it, but when you look at the comfort level Hoyer had as the game went on, I don't see how he did anything to lose the starting role.<br> <br> </li>
<li> <b>The X-Factor of Johnny Manziel:</b> I've been impressed with how quickly QB <b>Johnny Manziel</b> has learned to stay in the pocket compared to the beginning of camp. However, if Manziel is going to beat out Hoyer, it will be because the coaches believe his threat of taking off and running is the right fit for what they want to do offensively right now.<br> <a href="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/assets/4893046/off8a.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Off8a_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/assets/4893046/off8a_medium.png"></a> <br id="1407893316109"> <br>On Manziel's first drive, a 3rd-and-1 read-option keeper did not work. In the third quarter in a different scenario (1st-and-10), it does work. The FB, <b>Ray Agnew</b>, will occupy the defender with the arrow. The circled defense is presumably the guy who Manziel is reading.<br> <a href="http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889684/off8b.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Off8b_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889684/off8b_medium.png"></a> <br id="1407848819133"> <br>The defender bites for RB <b>Terrance West</b>, and Manziel takes off for a nice gain of 8 yards. Despite the lack of points, Hoyer and Manziel both looked like they could lead the team. I was in favor of Hoyer starting heading into this camp, though, and he hasn't done anything to lose that lead in my book.<br> <br> </li>
<li> <b>The Phantom Blocking:</b> We're all obsessed with fullbacks here, right? Well, this play involving FB <b>Ray Agnew</b> stood out to me, because it resulted in a three yard loss for RB <b>Terrance West</b> right after Manziel's opening run.<br> <a href="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889690/off9a.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Off9a_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889690/off9a_medium.png"></a> <br id="1407848876613"> <br>First off, yes -- we know the second- and third-team offensive lines were not good for the Browns. As such, we see two unmarked defenders break through immediately. Agnew can't stop them both, but he needs to get in the way of one of them to give West a chance.<br> <a href="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889686/off9b.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Off9b_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/assets/4889686/off9b_medium.png"></a> <br id="1407848889605"> <br>Instead, and this is one of the oddest things I've ever seen, Agnew is doing jump cuts and sprinting through the open hole as if he's the running back with the football. He lets both defenders go by, and West is taken down for a loss of three yards.<br> <br> </li>
<li> <b>Notes on Roster Bubble Players:</b> Here are a couple of thoughts on potential roster bubble players who I have not already discussed:<br><br>-WR <b><span>Jonathan Krause</span></b> - I'm sure he just didn't see the ball, but when the opportunities are far and few between, it's the type of thing that will get his name listed in the first batch of roster cuts.<br><br>-WR <b>Willie Snead</b> - Although he got open in practice, in my mind, I always kind of thought "<b><span>Brian Robiskie</span></b>" to myself, meaning not impactful enough on game day. I hate to judge him on one game, but that's what I saw -- he became invisible when everything was at full speed.<br><br>-WR <b><span>Charles Johnson</span></b> - Johnson did turn it up a notch when the lights came on. It's still a limited sample size we're going off of, but I wouldn't mind him being sprinkled in for a few more reps this week. How do you find the reps, though, if WR <b><span>Nate Burleson</span></b> along with WR <b><span>Travis Benjamin</span></b>?<br><br>-WR <b><span>Taylor Gabriel</span></b> - He looked good not only on special teams, but for his small size, he didn't seem to be at a disadvantage catching the ball in traffic. Johnson and Gabriel improved their stock with this game.<br><br>-ILB <b><span>Zac Diles</span></b> - The Browns need a fourth inside linebacker, and Diles would figure to have the early lead. Granted, he was pedestrian, but that might be enough to win the gig.<br><br>-OLB <b>Justin Staples</b> - I still view Staples as a tweener -- I'm not really sure what position he is suited for. We saw him have a big game to start last year's preseason, only to fade over the rest of the weeks. He started with a good game again this year, so now he needs to build off of that.<br><br>-CB <b>Leon McFadden</b> - Fans who have been reading DBN for years know that I am a bit of a sucker for defensive backs who play tight coverage in the preseason. I'm talking about guys like CB <b><span>Coye Francies</span></b> and CB <b><span>Trevin Wade</span></b>. This year, that guy is apparently CB <b>Leon McFadden</b>. It was disappointing to see so many flags thrown on him for defensive holding, but I don't fault him for trying to play aggressive. I understand that the officials are trying to be more strict with their calls, but come on, that interception he had was a thing of beauty, and <b>Mike Pettine</b> gave him props for it after the game too.<br><br>-CB <b><span>Pierre Desir</span></b> - Yikes! The coaching staff has said that Desir has made progress in camp, but he was clearly in a funk for his first career NFL game. I'll gave him a temporary pass -- maybe the "big stage" caused it. However, the stage gets even bigger next week on Monday Night Football, and if Desir tackles as poorly as he did on Saturday, then he's going to be "red-shirted" on the inactive list for awhile.<br> <br> </li>
<li> <b>Preseason for the Officials Too:</b> This was not a good preseason performance for the officiating crew. I already mentioned the fumble call they blew on the kickoff, but there were more problems. The Browns were given a poor spot on at least one play that should have netted a first down. <b>Mitchell Schwartz</b> was called for hands to the face, while we watched the defender doing the same exact thing to Schwartz. <b>MarQueis Gray</b> took a shot that is the very definition of a "defenseless receiver," yet no flag was thrown.<br><br>Ah, it wouldn't be the NFL if we didn't start bitching about the officiating, eh?<br><br> </li>
<li> <b>Special Teams Tackles: </b>There were seven special teams tackles by the Browns with one tackle each from RB <b>Chris Ogbonnaya</b>, FB <b>MarQueis Gray</b>, WR <b><span>Anthony Armstrong</span></b>, WR <b>Taylor Gabriel</b>, S <b><span>Jim Leonhard</span></b>, S <b>Jordan Poyer</b>, and CB <b>Leon McFadden</b>. Armstrong's hit on special teams forced a fumble, but the officials blew the call on and field and on the replay.<br><br> </li>
<li> <b>Snap Counts on Offense & Defense:</b> If you missed them, here are the links to our snap count trackers for offense (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.dawgsbynature.com/2014/8/10/5988321/browns-vs-lions-analyzing-the-snap-counts-offense">link</a>) and defense (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.dawgsbynature.com/2014/8/10/5988779/browns-vs-lions-analyzing-the-snap-counts-defense">link</a>). On offense, RB <b><span>Isaiah Crowell</span></b> did not see any reps; he only played three snaps on special teams all game. RB <b>Chris Ogbonnaya</b> also did not see any reps on offense. On defense, S <b>Jordan Poyer</b> saw a lot of reps due to S <b><span>Tashaun Gipson</span></b> (knee) sitting out, and ILB <b>Craig Robertson</b> played well into the second unit.<br><br> </li>
<li> <b>Brownies (Part 1):</b> The backup offensive line play for the Browns was pretty bad. ... OLB <b>Paul Kruger</b> was on fire in terms of pass rushing to start the game. ... The Browns pulled off a lot of defensive back blitzes on third down, making me think I was watching <b>Ray Horton's</b> defense again. ... TE <b><span>Jim Dray</span></b> started the game with TE <b><span>Jordan Cameron</span></b> out. ... QB <b>Tyler Thigpen</b> was way too errant with his throws, so maybe we'll see QB <b>Connor Shaw</b> get a crack at things soon. <i>[Update: Thigpen was waived and QB <b>Rex Grossman </b>was signed since I wrote this]</i><br><br> </li>
<li> <b>Brownies (Part 2):</b> RB <b>Chris Ogbonnaya</b> had an awesome tackle on a punt return, as did SS <b>Donte Whitner</b> on a first-down catch by a Lions receiver. ... With OG <b><span>John Greco</span></b> getting all of the first-team reps at right guard, he figures to have the early advantage there. ... RB <b>Terrance West</b> seemed to have good instincts on his runs, or at least better instincts from our last drafted running back (<b><span>Trent Richardson</span></b>). ... K <b><span>Billy Cundiff</span></b> showed why the team doesn't need another kicker in camp, going 4-of-4 on field goals. ... WR <b>Marlon Moore</b> shot out like a cannon on one kickoff return attempt.<br> </li>
</ol>
<p align="left">Up next, the Browns take on the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/washington-redskins">Washington Redskins</a> on Monday Night Football. Keep it tuned to Dawgs By Nature for our coverage leading up to the game!</p>
https://www.dawgsbynature.com/2014/8/12/5993121/game-review-browns-still-face-a-tough-decision-at-qb-after-13-12-lossChris Pokorny2014-08-12T09:00:09-04:002014-08-12T09:00:09-04:00PFF: Notes from Browns vs. Lions Preseason Game
<figure>
<img alt="ILB Chris Kirksey" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/jlSHwuvUIVyUov-ep1vijuUcWn4=/370x0:3920x2367/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/36822916/453413968.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>ILB Chris Kirksey | Leon Halip</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Pro Football Focus evaluates a few key performances from the Browns vs. Lions preseason game.</p> <p>As with the regular season and postseason, Pro Football Focus evaluates all preseason games and analyzes team and player performances. I recap what they had to say in <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1641755&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.profootballfocus.com%2Fblog%2F2014%2F08%2F10%2Frefo-browns-lions-preseason-week-1%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dawgsbynature.com%2F2014%2F8%2F12%2F5993853%2Fpro-football-focus-notes-from-browns-vs-lions-preseason-game" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">their review</a> of the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/">Browns</a> vs. <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/">Lions</a> game and also add my take.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li>
<span>Who has a leg up in the quarterback competition? According to PFF, it is too close to call due in part to Manziel playing behind a second team offensive line that was "getting completely manhandled". They also mention that Hoyer was the victim of drops on two of his best passes (and I'd like to add that Johnny also got a taste of that when WR Willie Snead failed to stay in bounds on one of his best passes of the game). </span><span>The guys at PFF are looking forward to seeing Johnny get a chance to play behind a line that gives him consistent protection. I suspect that you would join me in echoing that sentiment.</span>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span>So what about the running backs? PFF is in firm support of RB Ben Tate and points to his body of work and track record in the league, noting that he has received positive grades from them each season of his career. They were impressed with RB <span>Terrance West's</span> athletic potential, but felt that he was too indecisive and spent too much time moving east and west when he should have focused on getting downhill as soon as possible. I agree with these assessments with a couple caveats: 1. Tate has a rock-solid performance record, but has not demonstrated the ability to either handle a full workload or to stay healthy over the course of a season. Therefore, I don't see this as an either/or competition but as a committee. 2. PFF noted how poor offensive line performance limited what QB Johnny Manziel could demonstrate in this game -- the same could be said for Terrance West, to some extent.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span>LG Joel Bitonio received a positive grade for his performance: </span></li>
</ul>
<blockquote style="margin: 0 0 0 40px; border: none; padding: 0px;">
<blockquote style="margin: 0 0 0 40px; border: none; padding: 0px;">
<p><span>Bitonio, the second round pick from Nevada, was easily the most impressive [of the Browns 2014 draft picks]. </span><span>The guard sealed out linebackers multiple times at the second level and had just one downgraded play on the day...</span></p>
</blockquote>
</blockquote>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li><span>CB Pierre Desir received a negative evaluation, but PFF attributed this to the gigantic step up in the level of competition from NCAA Division II football to the NFL and not to a lack of talent or potential.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span>To the majority of fans (including yours truly), ILB Chris Kirksey received rave reviews for his play. The guys at PFF agree...in the passing game. In the running game he did not fare nearly as well, was labeled a "complete nonfactor", and received a negative grade. In the end, they called it a mixed review.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span>In their analysis of the Lions' battle at right tackle, <span>Paul Kruger</span> was described as a "tougher assignment" and RT Corey Hilliard was "beaten quickly twice" when facing him in pass protection. My attention was primarily on the inside linebackers when the first team defense was on the field, so I'll have to hesitatingly take PFF's word for it when it comes to how Kruger looked vs. the Lions.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span>The backup and third-string offensive lines struggled mightily. In related news, human beings can't breathe underwater and microwaving your cell phone is not recommended (to really lock in the flavor, char broiling is preferred).</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span>PFF once again had high praise for DT <span>John Hughes</span>:</span></li>
</ul>
<blockquote style="margin: 0 0 0 40px; border: none; padding: 0px;">
<blockquote style="margin: 0 0 0 40px; border: none; padding: 0px;">
<div><span>John Hughes is starting to develop into one of the league’s premier run defenders. He was unmovable 1-on-1 and had three run stops to go along with a [positive] overall grade.</span></div>
</blockquote>
</blockquote>
https://www.dawgsbynature.com/2014/8/12/5993853/pro-football-focus-notes-from-browns-vs-lions-preseason-gameTim A. Miller2014-08-10T16:19:19-04:002014-08-10T16:19:19-04:00Analyzing Snap Counts: Browns-Lions (Defense)
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/XkF3LZyh8Zo3xVKtGQisT2927Eo=/0x70:4000x2737/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/36761960/453408430.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Leon Halip</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Looking at the defensive snap counts in the Browns' 13-12 loss to the Lions.</p> <p>Earlier today, we analyzed the snap counts for <a target="_blank" href="http://www.dawgsbynature.com/2014/8/10/5988321/browns-vs-lions-analyzing-the-snap-counts-offense">the Cleveland Browns offense</a> in their first preseason game against the Detroit Lions. Now, it's time to turn our attention to the defensive side of the ball.</p>
<h3>Defensive Line</h3>
<table class="dbn" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="0">
<colgroup>
<col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1060; width: 22pt;" width="29"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 4498; width: 92pt;" width="123"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1426; width: 29pt;" width="39"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1170; width: 24pt;" width="32"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 14555; width: 299pt;" width="398"> </colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td class="xl63" style="height: 15.0pt; width: 22pt;" height="20" width="29">Pos</td>
<td class="xl63" style="width: 92pt;" width="123">Player</td>
<td class="xl67" style="width: 29pt;" width="39">Plays</td>
<td class="xl64" style="width: 24pt;" width="32">%</td>
<td class="xl63" style="width: 299pt;" width="398">Stats</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">DL</td>
<td>Armonty Bryant</td>
<td class="xl66">28</td>
<td class="xl65">41%</td>
<td>1 assist (1 combined). 2 quarterback hits.</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">DL</td>
<td>Ishmaa'ily Kitchen</td>
<td class="xl66">24</td>
<td class="xl65">35%</td>
<td>1 tackle, 1 assist (2 combined).</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">DL</td>
<td>John Hughes</td>
<td class="xl66">24</td>
<td class="xl65">35%</td>
<td>4 tackles (4 combined).</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">DL</td>
<td>Calvin Barnett</td>
<td class="xl66">23</td>
<td class="xl65">33%</td>
<td>1 tackle (1 combined).</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">DL</td>
<td>Cam Henderson</td>
<td class="xl66">22</td>
<td class="xl65">32%</td>
<td>1 assist (1 combined). 1 fumble recovery.</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">DL</td>
<td>Jacobbi McDaniel</td>
<td class="xl66">20</td>
<td class="xl65">29%</td>
<td>No stats registered.</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">DL</td>
<td>Desmond Bryant</td>
<td class="xl66">16</td>
<td class="xl65">23%</td>
<td>1 tackle (1 combined). 1 tackle for loss.</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">DL</td>
<td>Ahtyba Rubin</td>
<td class="xl66">13</td>
<td class="xl65">19%</td>
<td>1 assist (1 combined).</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">DL</td>
<td>Phil Taylor</td>
<td class="xl66">13</td>
<td class="xl65">19%</td>
<td>1 assist (1 combined). 1 quarterback hit.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>There was not anything too surprising about the rep counts for the defensive line. <b>Billy Winn</b> missed the game with an abdominal injury, which probably allowed <b>Armonty Bryant</b> to get a few more opportunities. A. Bryant did a good job when he was in the game, so I won't make the mistake of thinking he's on the roster bubble again.</p>
<h3>Outside Linebacker</h3>
<table class="dbn" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="0">
<colgroup>
<col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1060; width: 22pt;" width="29"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 4498; width: 92pt;" width="123"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1426; width: 29pt;" width="39"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1170; width: 24pt;" width="32"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 14555; width: 299pt;" width="398"> </colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td class="xl65" style="height: 15.0pt; width: 22pt;" height="20" width="29">Pos</td>
<td class="xl65" style="width: 92pt;" width="123">Player</td>
<td class="xl69" style="width: 29pt;" width="39">Plays</td>
<td class="xl66" style="width: 24pt;" width="32">%</td>
<td class="xl65" style="width: 299pt;" width="398">Stats</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">OLB</td>
<td>Jamaal Westerman</td>
<td class="xl68">37</td>
<td class="xl67">54%</td>
<td>1 tackle (1 combined). 1 quarterback hit.</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">OLB</td>
<td>Justin Staples</td>
<td class="xl68">31</td>
<td class="xl67">45%</td>
<td>2 tackles (2 combined). 1 pass defended, 1 fumble recovery.</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">OLB</td>
<td>Jabaal Sheard</td>
<td class="xl68">21</td>
<td class="xl67">30%</td>
<td>No stats registered.</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">OLB</td>
<td>Keith Pough</td>
<td class="xl68">16</td>
<td class="xl67">23%</td>
<td>1 assist (1 combined).</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">OLB</td>
<td>Paul Kruger</td>
<td class="xl68">16</td>
<td class="xl67">23%</td>
<td>1 tackle (1 combined).</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">OLB</td>
<td>Barkevious Mingo</td>
<td class="xl68">15</td>
<td class="xl67">22%</td>
<td>1 tackle, 1 assist (2 combined). 1 sack, 1 quarterback hit, 1 tackle for loss.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Once again, the distributions here weren't too surprising. <b>Jamaal Westerman </b>and <b>Justin Staples</b> were the primary backups after the starting trio left the game, and newcomer <b>Keith Pough</b> got into the action a little bit too.</p>
<h3>Inside Linebacker</h3>
<table class="dbn" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="0">
<colgroup>
<col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1060; width: 22pt;" width="29"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 4498; width: 92pt;" width="123"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1426; width: 29pt;" width="39"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1170; width: 24pt;" width="32"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 14555; width: 299pt;" width="398"> </colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td class="xl65" style="height: 15.0pt; width: 22pt;" height="20" width="29">Pos</td>
<td class="xl65" style="width: 92pt;" width="123">Player</td>
<td class="xl69" style="width: 29pt;" width="39">Plays</td>
<td class="xl66" style="width: 24pt;" width="32">%</td>
<td class="xl65" style="width: 299pt;" width="398">Stats</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">ILB</td>
<td>Zac Diles</td>
<td class="xl68">32</td>
<td class="xl67">46%</td>
<td>4 tackles (4 combined). 1 pass defended.</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">ILB</td>
<td>Craig Robertson</td>
<td class="xl68">28</td>
<td class="xl67">41%</td>
<td>2 tackles, 1 assist (3 combined). 1 pass defended.</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">ILB</td>
<td>Chris Kirksey</td>
<td class="xl68">24</td>
<td class="xl67">35%</td>
<td>3 tackles (3 combined). 1 pass defended.</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">ILB</td>
<td>Tank Carder</td>
<td class="xl68">23</td>
<td class="xl67">33%</td>
<td>1 tackle (1 combined).</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">ILB</td>
<td>Karlos Dansby</td>
<td class="xl68">18</td>
<td class="xl67">26%</td>
<td>1 assist (1 combined).</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>The more time that ILB <b>Darius Eubanks</b> misses, the less likely he is to make the roster. <b>Zac Diles</b> did a fair job, capitalizing on the additional playing time. I was surprised that <b>Craig Robertson</b> played as much as he did -- you can tell the coaching staff wanted to get as many things on tape as they could for Robertson and <b>Chris Kirksey</b>. Both guys had pass defenses on plays down the field, but Kirksey's was probably more impressive.</p>
<h3>Safety</h3>
<table class="dbn" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="0">
<colgroup>
<col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1060; width: 22pt;" width="29"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 4498; width: 92pt;" width="123"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1426; width: 29pt;" width="39"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1170; width: 24pt;" width="32"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 14555; width: 299pt;" width="398"> </colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td class="xl65" style="height: 15.0pt; width: 22pt;" height="20" width="29">Pos</td>
<td class="xl65" style="width: 92pt;" width="123">Player</td>
<td class="xl69" style="width: 29pt;" width="39">Plays</td>
<td class="xl66" style="width: 24pt;" width="32">%</td>
<td class="xl65" style="width: 299pt;" width="398">Stats</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">S</td>
<td>Jordan Poyer</td>
<td class="xl68">41</td>
<td class="xl67">59%</td>
<td>3 tackles (3 combined).</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">S</td>
<td>Josh Aubrey</td>
<td class="xl68">34</td>
<td class="xl67">49%</td>
<td>1 tackle (1 combined). 1 pass defended, 1 forced fumble.</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">S</td>
<td>Johnson Bademosi</td>
<td class="xl68">24</td>
<td class="xl67">35%</td>
<td>1 tackle, 1 assist (2 combined).</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">S</td>
<td>Jim Leonhard</td>
<td class="xl68">24</td>
<td class="xl67">35%</td>
<td>1 tackle (1 combined).</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">S</td>
<td>Donte Whitner</td>
<td class="xl68">18</td>
<td class="xl67">26%</td>
<td>1 tackle, 1 assist (2 combined).</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><b>Tashaun Gipson</b> sat out with his knee injury, so <b>Jordan Poyer</b> not only started, but played into the second team as well. <b>Josh Aubrey</b> continued his reputation of being a playmaker. It'll be interesting to see which combination at safety <b>Mike Pettine</b> wants to go with for the backups. <b>Donte Whitner</b> had a great hit early in the game.</p>
<h3>Cornerback</h3>
<table class="dbn" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="0">
<colgroup>
<col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1060; width: 22pt;" width="29"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 4498; width: 92pt;" width="123"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1426; width: 29pt;" width="39"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1170; width: 24pt;" width="32"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 14555; width: 299pt;" width="398"> </colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td class="xl65" style="height: 15.0pt; width: 22pt;" height="20" width="29">Pos</td>
<td class="xl65" style="width: 92pt;" width="123">Player</td>
<td class="xl69" style="width: 29pt;" width="39">Plays</td>
<td class="xl66" style="width: 24pt;" width="32">%</td>
<td class="xl65" style="width: 299pt;" width="398">Stats</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">CB</td>
<td>Aaron Berry</td>
<td class="xl68">34</td>
<td class="xl67">49%</td>
<td>4 tackles (4 combined). 1 pass defended.</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">CB</td>
<td>Pierre Desir</td>
<td class="xl68">34</td>
<td class="xl67">49%</td>
<td>1 tackle, 1 assist (2 combined).</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">CB</td>
<td>K'Waun Williams</td>
<td class="xl68">19</td>
<td class="xl67">28%</td>
<td>2 tackles (2 combined).</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">CB</td>
<td>Buster Skrine</td>
<td class="xl68">18</td>
<td class="xl67">26%</td>
<td>No stats registered.</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">CB</td>
<td>Joe Haden</td>
<td class="xl68">18</td>
<td class="xl67">26%</td>
<td>No stats registered.</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">CB</td>
<td>Isaiah Trufant</td>
<td class="xl68">17</td>
<td class="xl67">25%</td>
<td>1 assist (1 combined).</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">CB</td>
<td>Leon McFadden</td>
<td class="xl68">17</td>
<td class="xl67">25%</td>
<td>3 tackles (3 combined).</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">CB</td>
<td>T.J. Heath</td>
<td class="xl68">17</td>
<td class="xl67">25%</td>
<td>No stats registered.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>We're pulling for <b>Pierre Desir</b>, but this was an ugly performance for him. If he doesn't continue to make steady improvement, the Browns will have to "redshirt" him for his first season. I still need to review <b>Leon McFadden's</b> outing, but being flagged as many times as he was is a downer.</p>
<p>
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https://www.dawgsbynature.com/2014/8/10/5988779/browns-vs-lions-analyzing-the-snap-counts-defenseChris Pokorny2014-08-10T13:37:05-04:002014-08-10T13:37:05-04:00Analyzing Snap Counts: Browns-Lions (Offense)
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/GvBRIvCgtzYLzmhQqhg5BmM1UiA=/0x650:3232x2805/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/36756418/453415370.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Leon Halip</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Looking at the offensive snap counts in the Browns' 13-12 loss to the Lions.</p> <p>Last year during the regular season, after each game, we would analyze how many snap counts every player on the team had. We will do the same thing this preseason, splitting the series up into offensive and defensive breakdowns, starting with last night's game between the Cleveland Browns and the Detroit Lions.</p>
<p>Because this is the preseason, you have to kind of understand the context of many of these snap count percentages. For example, it doesn't mean much that <b>Willie Snead</b> saw more snaps than any other wide receiver, because the third-team offense simply got a lot of plays late in the game. Game statistics are provided for each of the players.</p>
<h3>Quarterback</h3>
<table class="dbn" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="0">
<colgroup> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1060; width: 22pt;" width="29"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 4498; width: 92pt;" width="123"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1426; width: 29pt;" width="39"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1170; width: 24pt;" width="32"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 14555; width: 299pt;" width="398"> </colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td class="xl64" style="height: 15.0pt; width: 22pt;" height="20" width="29">Pos</td>
<td class="xl64" style="width: 92pt;" width="123">Player</td>
<td class="xl65" style="width: 29pt;" width="39">Plays</td>
<td class="xl66" style="width: 24pt;" width="32">%</td>
<td class="xl64" style="width: 299pt;" width="398">Stats</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">QB</td>
<td>Johnny Manziel</td>
<td class="xl63">25</td>
<td class="xl67">37%</td>
<td>7-of-11 for 63 yards. 6 carries, 27 yards.</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">QB</td>
<td>Brian Hoyer</td>
<td class="xl63">24</td>
<td class="xl67">35%</td>
<td>6-of-14 for 92 yards.</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">QB</td>
<td>Tyler Thigpen</td>
<td class="xl63">19</td>
<td class="xl67">28%</td>
<td>3-of-12 for 38 yards, 1 INT.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Neither quarterback set the world on fire, but I think that is OK. I think we're all a bit tired of guys like <b>Jake Delhomme</b>, <b>Colt McCoy</b>, and <b>Brandon Weeden</b> building our hopes up with touchdown-heavy stats in the preseason, only to be let down.</p>
<p>Against the Lions, I think <b>Brian Hoyer</b> and <b>Johnny Manziel</b> merely confirmed that they are the type of players we expected them to be. Hoyer can make the quick decisions and has a good level of comfort with the offense. Manziel adds the extra dimension of turning a dead play into a big gainer, but he doesn't have as a good of a grasp of the offense and doesn't seem to be selling the fakes very well yet. <b>Tyler Thigpen</b> was way off on too many of his throws, just like he was in practice.</p>
<h3>Running Back</h3>
<table class="dbn" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="0">
<colgroup> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1060; width: 22pt;" width="29"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 4498; width: 92pt;" width="123"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1426; width: 29pt;" width="39"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1170; width: 24pt;" width="32"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 14555; width: 299pt;" width="398"> </colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td class="xl66" style="height: 15.0pt; width: 22pt;" height="20" width="29">Pos</td>
<td class="xl66" style="width: 92pt;" width="123">Player</td>
<td class="xl67" style="width: 29pt;" width="39">Plays</td>
<td class="xl68" style="width: 24pt;" width="32">%</td>
<td class="xl66" style="width: 299pt;" width="398">Stats</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">RB</td>
<td>Terrance West</td>
<td class="xl65">29</td>
<td class="xl69">43%</td>
<td>10 carries, 22 yards, 2.2 avg. 1 catch, 8 yards (1 target).</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">FB</td>
<td>MarQueis Gray</td>
<td class="xl65">27</td>
<td class="xl69">40%</td>
<td>2 catches, 51 yards (5 targets).</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">RB</td>
<td>Dion Lewis</td>
<td class="xl65">23</td>
<td class="xl69">34%</td>
<td>3 carries, 6 yards, 2.0 avg. 1 catch, 2 yards (1 target). 1 fumble lost.</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">FB</td>
<td>Ray Agnew</td>
<td class="xl65">14</td>
<td class="xl69">21%</td>
<td>No stats registered.</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">RB</td>
<td>Ben Tate</td>
<td class="xl65">11</td>
<td class="xl69">16%</td>
<td>6 carries, 25 yards, 4.2 avg.</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">RB</td>
<td>Edwin Baker</td>
<td class="xl65">5</td>
<td class="xl69">7%</td>
<td>3 carries, 9 yards, 3.0 avg.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>The Browns let the rookie <b>Terrance West</b> get as many touches as he could over the first three quarters. His stats started off better, but then a couple of plays got him destroyed behind the second-team offensive line. <b>Dion Lewis</b> actually received a lot of reps and had a nice 12-yard burst on one carry, but the fumble will stand out like a sore thumb to the coaching staff. The fullbacks got plenty of work, particularly <b>MarQueis Gray</b>, who looks to be utilized heavily in the passing game this year. <b>Ben Tate</b> looked the part of a starting running back during his limited duty.</p>
<h3>Wide Receiver</h3>
<table class="dbn" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="0">
<colgroup> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1060; width: 22pt;" width="29"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 4498; width: 92pt;" width="123"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1426; width: 29pt;" width="39"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1170; width: 24pt;" width="32"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 14555; width: 299pt;" width="398"> </colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td class="xl66" style="height: 15.0pt; width: 22pt;" height="20" width="29">Pos</td>
<td class="xl66" style="width: 92pt;" width="123">Player</td>
<td class="xl67" style="width: 29pt;" width="39">Plays</td>
<td class="xl68" style="width: 24pt;" width="32">%</td>
<td class="xl66" style="width: 299pt;" width="398">Stats</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">WR</td>
<td>Willie Snead</td>
<td class="xl65">34</td>
<td class="xl69">50%</td>
<td>0 catches (3 targets).</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">WR</td>
<td>Taylor Gabriel</td>
<td class="xl65">31</td>
<td class="xl69">46%</td>
<td>3 catches, 32 yards (7 targets).</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">WR</td>
<td>Charles Johnson</td>
<td class="xl65">31</td>
<td class="xl69">46%</td>
<td>3 catches, 30 yards (6 targets).</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">WR</td>
<td>Josh Gordon</td>
<td class="xl65">18</td>
<td class="xl69">26%</td>
<td>2 catches, 32 yards (4 targets).</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">WR</td>
<td>Miles Austin</td>
<td class="xl65">16</td>
<td class="xl69">24%</td>
<td>1 catch, 13 yards (3 targets).</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">WR</td>
<td>Andrew Hawkins</td>
<td class="xl65">14</td>
<td class="xl69">21%</td>
<td>1 catch, 15 yards (3 targets).</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">WR</td>
<td>Anthony Armstrong</td>
<td class="xl65">12</td>
<td class="xl69">18%</td>
<td>1 catch, 6 yards (1 target).</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">WR</td>
<td>Jonathan Krause</td>
<td class="xl65">9</td>
<td class="xl69">13%</td>
<td>0 catches (1 target).</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">WR</td>
<td>Marlon Moore</td>
<td class="xl65">3</td>
<td class="xl69">4%</td>
<td>No stats registered.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Compared to what we've seen in practice, <b>Willie Snead</b> was a disappointment, and don't get me started about that one play with <b>Jonathan Krause</b>. Even <b>Josh Gordon</b> and <b>Miles Austin</b> dropped catchable passes. The amount of passes that <b>Taylor Gabriel</b> and <b>Charles Johnson</b> were targeted on gives you an idea of what the Browns' quarterbacks think of them. <b>Nate Burleson</b> sat out as he nursed a hamstring injury, and <b>Travis Benjamin</b> was given the game off.</p>
<h3>Tight End</h3>
<table class="dbn" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="0">
<colgroup> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1060; width: 22pt;" width="29"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 4498; width: 92pt;" width="123"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1426; width: 29pt;" width="39"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1170; width: 24pt;" width="32"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 14555; width: 299pt;" width="398"> </colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td class="xl66" style="height: 15.0pt; width: 22pt;" height="20" width="29">Pos</td>
<td class="xl66" style="width: 92pt;" width="123">Player</td>
<td class="xl67" style="width: 29pt;" width="39">Plays</td>
<td class="xl68" style="width: 24pt;" width="32">%</td>
<td class="xl66" style="width: 299pt;" width="398">Stats</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">TE</td>
<td>Emmanuel Ogbuehi</td>
<td class="xl65">24</td>
<td class="xl69">35%</td>
<td>No stats registered.</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">TE</td>
<td>Gary Barnidge</td>
<td class="xl65">20</td>
<td class="xl69">29%</td>
<td>0 catches (1 target).</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">TE</td>
<td>Jim Dray</td>
<td class="xl65">18</td>
<td class="xl69">26%</td>
<td>1 catch, 4 yards (1 target).</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">TE</td>
<td>Martell Webb</td>
<td class="xl65">1</td>
<td class="xl69">1%</td>
<td>No stats registered.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>With <b>Jordan Cameron</b> out of the lineup (shoulder), the regular tight ends barely saw any passes come their way. To an extent, you could also put <b>MarQueis Gray</b> here, because he lined up at multiple positions. Technically, <b>Jim Dray</b> was the guy who got the start in place of Cameron.</p>
<h3>Offensive Line</h3>
<table class="dbn" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="0">
<colgroup> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1060; width: 22pt;" width="29"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 4498; width: 92pt;" width="123"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1426; width: 29pt;" width="39"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 1170; width: 24pt;" width="32"> <col style="mso-width-source: userset; mso-width-alt: 14555; width: 299pt;" width="398"> </colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td class="xl66" style="height: 15.0pt; width: 22pt;" height="20" width="29">Pos</td>
<td class="xl66" style="width: 92pt;" width="123">Player</td>
<td class="xl67" style="width: 29pt;" width="39">Plays</td>
<td class="xl68" style="width: 24pt;" width="32">%</td>
<td class="xl66" style="width: 299pt;" width="398"></td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">OL</td>
<td>Jeremiah Warren</td>
<td class="xl65">44</td>
<td class="xl69">65%</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">OL</td>
<td>Martin Wallace</td>
<td class="xl65">44</td>
<td class="xl69">65%</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">OL</td>
<td>Keavon Milton</td>
<td class="xl65">44</td>
<td class="xl69">65%</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">OL</td>
<td>Garrett Gilkey</td>
<td class="xl65">35</td>
<td class="xl69">51%</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">OL</td>
<td>Paul McQuistan</td>
<td class="xl65">35</td>
<td class="xl69">51%</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">OL</td>
<td>Joe Thomas</td>
<td class="xl65">24</td>
<td class="xl69">35%</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">OL</td>
<td>Joel Bitonio</td>
<td class="xl65">24</td>
<td class="xl69">35%</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">OL</td>
<td>Alex Mack</td>
<td class="xl65">24</td>
<td class="xl69">35%</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">OL</td>
<td>John Greco</td>
<td class="xl65">24</td>
<td class="xl69">35%</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">OL</td>
<td>Mitchell Schwartz</td>
<td class="xl65">24</td>
<td class="xl69">35%</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">OL</td>
<td>Abasi Salimu</td>
<td class="xl65">9</td>
<td class="xl69">13%</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">
<td style="height: 15.0pt;" height="20">OL</td>
<td>Ryan Lee</td>
<td class="xl65">9</td>
<td class="xl69">13%</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>The starting offensive line played 24 snaps, which is the same amount of snaps that QB <b>Brian Hoyer</b> had. Contrary to what was reported right before the game, QB <b>Johnny Manziel</b> did not receive any snaps behind the first-team offensive line. Greco played with the first-stringers, so he appears to have the edge over <b>Garrett Gilkey</b>. The backup offensive linemen as a collective unit were pretty dreadful.</p>
<p>----</p>
<p>We'll have coverage on the defensive and special teams snap counts later on.</p>
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https://www.dawgsbynature.com/2014/8/10/5988321/browns-vs-lions-analyzing-the-snap-counts-offenseChris Pokorny2014-08-10T11:37:15-04:002014-08-10T11:37:15-04:00Browns-Lions Picture Recap: The Offense
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/lxnrcQfcCglnrHIOrsFwUeOfl_M=/0x107:4000x2774/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/36752242/20140809_jla_aw3_366.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Let's take a quick look at some pictures from last night's game to see what they can tell us.</p> <p>Hey there folks, I'm taking some time to walk through last night's game and though I would share some pictures with everybody to help illustrate what went right and what went wrong. This is not meant to be a comprehensive recap or anything, just a few quick thoughts with some examples. In part one I'll be going over the offense, with a heavy focus on the first and second teams. Sorry <span>Tyler Thigpen</span>.</p>
<p>First let's look at <span>Brian Hoyer's</span> second play from scrimmage. On second down with six to go, Hoyer hits <span>MarQueis Gray</span> in the flat for a 28 yard pickup. Awesome right? Yes and no. The play starts with Hoyer dropping back and looking down the middle of the field. After a second or two he immediately turns and checks to Gray. But take a look at this.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" href="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/assets/4883140/Screen_Shot_2014-08-10_at_9.31.10_AM.png"><img src="http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/assets/4883140/Screen_Shot_2014-08-10_at_9.31.10_AM_medium.png" class="photo" alt="Screen_shot_2014-08-10_at_9.31.10_am_medium" width="700/"></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">That player at the bottom right is <span>Andrew Hawkins</span>, sitting wide open twenty yards down the field. That's right where Brian Hoyer was looking before deciding to dump it off to Gray. Obviously the play worked out, and I don't claim to know Hoyer's progression, but I have a hard time believing it was to stare at Gordon for two seconds then dump it off.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Let's take a look at a run by <span>Ben Tate</span> two plays later. After an eight yard gain on first down, the <a href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Browns</a> continue to pound it. This run only goes for four, but I think it's a perfect example of what rufio talked about <a target="_blank" href="http://www.dawgsbynature.com/2014/8/8/5950881/alex-gibbs-one-play-outside-zone">here.</a> Tate takes the ball on what looks like an outside zone left, and cuts "back" up field behind right tackle Mitchell Schwartz. Notice the wall of white jerseys collapsing the defense toward the top of the screen. Expect to see this a lot from now on.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" href="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/assets/4883148/Screen_Shot_2014-08-10_at_9.51.05_AM.png"><img src="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/4883148/Screen_Shot_2014-08-10_at_9.51.05_AM_medium.png" class="photo" alt="Screen_shot_2014-08-10_at_9.51.05_am_medium" width="700/"></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">On this final example from Brian Hoyer, you can see some other elements that rufio talked about in his article on the outside zone. Hoyer fakes the handoff, and rolls to his left. This is the kind of play the Browns need to run to keep defenses honest. Notice how the defense has over-pursued and leaves Hoyer plenty of space. This type of play will be very important for the Browns this season, and it's nice to see that Hoyer is capable of executing it. He gets his head turned around and makes a nice throw, which unfortunately <span>Miles Austin</span> drops. Still, this should encourage Browns fans, even if the result wasn't what we wanted.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" href="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/4883156/Screen_Shot_2014-08-10_at_9.49.04_AM.png"><img src="http://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/assets/4883156/Screen_Shot_2014-08-10_at_9.49.04_AM_medium.png" class="photo" alt="Screen_shot_2014-08-10_at_9.49.04_am_medium" width="700/"></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Now for the part I'm sure you're all waiting for, Johnny Manziel. First the bad. On his first pass as a pro Manziel connects with <span>Anthony Armstrong</span> for a six yard gain. That's good, but one of Manziel's issues from college follows him to the pros. Manziel has a reputation for not always stepping into his throws, and you can see here he's fading away from the thorw, even though he has a clean pocket. This keeps him from getting a lot of zip on the ball, and in the future could result in tipped passes or interceptions.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" href="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/assets/4883180/Screen_Shot_2014-08-10_at_10.12.50_AM.png"><img src="http://cdn2.vox-cdn.com/assets/4883180/Screen_Shot_2014-08-10_at_10.12.50_AM_medium.png" class="photo" alt="Screen_shot_2014-08-10_at_10.12.50_am_medium" width="700/"></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Now for the good. Perhaps the biggest question so far for Manziel is how quickly he will pick up the playbook. This next play is a positive indicator. On third and five, Manziel hits <span>Charles Johnson</span> on a quick hitch for a seven yard gain and a first down. The best thing about the play is when Manziel makes the throw. He's already made his decision and thrown the ball before Johnson comes out of his break. He doesn't wait for his receiver to come open, he knows what is going to happen and he's able to make a perfect throw in rhythm. If Manziel can do this type of thing consistently he'll be in good shape.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" href="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/assets/4883188/Screen_Shot_2014-08-10_at_10.09.07_AM.png"><img src="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/assets/4883188/Screen_Shot_2014-08-10_at_10.09.07_AM_medium.png" class="photo" alt="Screen_shot_2014-08-10_at_10.09.07_am_medium" width="700/"></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">This final play is from Tyler Thigpen and the third/fourth teamers. Screen plays have been completely absent from the Browns offense in recent years. On this play the Browns are trying to set up a screen to <span>Charles Johnson</span>, and things are looking perfect. There are four linemen and a fullback out to block, and only three <a href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Lions</a> near the ball. This is going to be a huge gain. Then the ball is knocked down before it can get to Johnson. Thigpen needs to get this ball through to his receiver. This is an example of how throwing from different angles can be helpful to a QB. If last night's game is any indication though, expect screen passes to finally be a part of the Brown's offense.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" href="http://cdn1.vox-cdn.com/assets/4883196/Screen_Shot_2014-08-10_at_10.20.13_AM.png"><img src="http://cdn3.vox-cdn.com/assets/4883196/Screen_Shot_2014-08-10_at_10.20.13_AM_medium.png" class="photo" alt="Screen_shot_2014-08-10_at_10.20.13_am_medium" width="700/"></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">So all in all, the offense looks rusty. There were lots of little mistakes and missing details. But the framework is there. The team looks able to run the ball behind the starting line using the outside zone, and we caught glimpses of what can happen when a defense over-commits to that. There's a long way to go, but football is back people, and it's shaping up to be a fun season.</p>
https://www.dawgsbynature.com/2014/8/10/5988007/cleveland-browns-vs-detroit-lions-quick-image-recap-part-onenotthatnoise2014-08-09T22:36:54-04:002014-08-09T22:36:54-04:00Instant Recap: Browns Lose 13-12 to Lions
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/zf0kZMpDBUwxEst1y0oUspvxUSg=/0x0:3990x2660/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/36739296/20140809_jla_af2_415.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/">Cleveland Browns</a> fell to the Detroit Lions by a score of 13-12 in their first preseason game of the year. The Lions got a last-second drive from QB <b>Kellen Moore</b>, who connected with WR <b>Corey Fuller</b> for the only touchdown of the game. Here are some quick hitter observations from the game:</p>
<ul>
<li>QB <b><span>Brian Hoyer</span></b> played into the second quarter and finished the game 6-of-14 for 92 yards. All things considered, this wasn't a bad performance for the veteran quarterback. Guys don't need to light it up in the preseason to keep their job. Hoyer overthrew the ball twice on his first two drives. On the third drive, he was more crisp, but unfortunately, WR <b><span>Miles Austin</span></b> and WR <b><span>Josh Gordon</span></b> both missed opportunities at big plays.<br> <br>
</li>
<li>QB <b><span>Johnny Manziel</span></b> only got one drive in the first half, and it ended after the read-option on 3rd-and-1 failed to get any yards on a quarterback keeper. Playing behind a shoddy offensive line in the second half, Manziel showed glimpses of why he was drafted -- bootlegs, rollouts, a laser arm, etc. His best drive of the game was stalled when RB <b><span>Dion Lewis</span></b> fumbled. Like Hoyer, Manziel was also victimized by some drops by his receivers. Manziel finished 7-of-11 for 63 yards. He also had 6 carries for 27 yards.<br> <br>
</li>
<li>The running game had its moments. RB <b><span>Ben Tate</span></b> looked comfortable in the system, having 6 carries for 25 yards. RB <b><span>Terrance West</span></b> showed impressive moves and power, but his stats were skewered a little bit by poor offensive line play. West finished the day with 10 carries for 22 yards. The wide receivers were a bit shaky, but on the bottom end of the depth chart, WR <b><span>Taylor Gabriel</span></b> and WR <b><span>Charles Johnson</span></b> made some good grabs.<br> <br>
</li>
<li>The Browns had their moments defensively, but despite the lack of touchdowns allowed, the tackling needs some improvement. OLB <b><span>Barkevious Mingo</span></b> and DE <b><span>Armonty Bryant</span></b> were highlights in pass rushing, while CB <b><span>Pierre Desir</span></b> didn't have the best of days in coverage.<br> <br>
</li>
<li>Before the game, NFL.com reported that QB <b>Johnny Manziel</b> will start next week on Monday Night Football against the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/washington-redskins">Washington Redskins</a>. ... We'll see if head coach <b>Mike Pettine</b> confirms that or not. ... I can't complain about K <b><span>Billy Cundiff</span></b> going 4-of-4 on the night. Awesome hit by RB <b>Chris Ogbonnaya</b> on a punt return at the end of the game. ... Lastly, we definitely need <b>Bernie Kosar</b> back in the announcers booth for the Browns.<br>
</li>
</ul>
<p>We'll have our full review of the game up over the next few days, but let us know what your instant reaction to the game was.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en">
<p>HERE'S JOHNNY <a href="https://t.co/4NQh7nR0rq">https://t.co/4NQh7nR0rq</a></p>— SB Nation GIF (@SBNationGIF) <a href="https://twitter.com/SBNationGIF/statuses/498280000265543680">August 10, 2014</a>
</blockquote>
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https://www.dawgsbynature.com/2014/8/9/5987113/instant-recap-browns-lose-13-12-to-lions-in-johnny-manziels-debutChris Pokorny2014-08-09T21:49:39-04:002014-08-09T21:49:39-04:00Browns vs. Lions - 4th Quarter Game Thread
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/DTJh5MtG5sWiiFAItL0d62Tik-c=/270x0:3892x2415/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/36738796/453410628.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Leon Halip</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Jump down to the comments section to discuss the Browns vs. Lions game each quarter with a bunch of other Browns fans!</p> <p>Cleveland Browns fans were treated to a little bit of excitement from QB <b>Johnny Manziel</b> in the third quarter, as he used his legs to move the chains a couple of times. Just as the drive was looking promising, though, RB <b>Dion Lewis</b> fumbled and the Lions recovered. It remains 9-6 Cleveland as we head into the final quarter of play.</p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph" id="paragraph2" align="center"><a href="http://www.dawgsbynature.com/"><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/1343810/large_dawgsbynature.com.full_medium.png" style="vertical-align: middle;" width="180"></a><b><span>VS.</span></b><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/"><img src="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/uploads/blog/sbnu_logo/63/large_prideofdetroit.com.full.43974.png" style="vertical-align: middle;" width="180"></a></p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph" id="paragraph3" align="center"><b>Game:</b> <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/">Cleveland Browns</a> vs. <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/">Detroit Lions</a><br><b>Date/Time:</b> Saturday, August 9, 2014 at 7:30 p.m. ET<br><b>Local Television:</b> WKYC, Channel 3 (Cleveland) - Jim Donovan & Solomon Wilcots<br><b>Local Radio:</b> ESPN 850 WKNR, 92.3 The Fan, 98.5 FM WNCX - Jeff Phelps & Doug Dieken</p>
https://www.dawgsbynature.com/2014/8/9/5987099/cleveland-browns-vs-detroit-lions-4th-quarter-game-threadChris Pokorny2014-08-09T20:56:03-04:002014-08-09T20:56:03-04:00Browns vs. Lions - 3rd Quarter Game Thread
<figure>
<img alt="We've got the field goal kicking down pat." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/QkFx-XIEkvvhyarzOyY2aeLjsYU=/0x0:3990x2660/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/36737754/20140809_jla_af2_295.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>We've got the field goal kicking down pat. | Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Jump down to the comments section to discuss the Browns vs. Lions game each quarter with a bunch of other Browns fans!</p> <p>The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/">Browns</a> let QB <b><span>Brian Hoyer</span></b> stay in to begin the second quarter. He led another field goal drive against the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/">Lions</a>' second-team defense, but there was a big drop by WR <b><span>Miles Austin</span></b> on the drive. The Browns had a 6-3 lead, and the Lions fumbled the ensuring kickoff -- well, they should have, but they retained the ball because of poor officiating.</p>
<p>The Browns' defense forced a 3rd-and-1 stop when DE <b><span>Armonty Bryant</span></b> put a big hit on QB <b><span>Dan Orlovsky</span></b>. That's when it was <b>Johnny Football</b> time. Unfortunately, Manziel went three-and-out; on a third-down run, he took off on the read-option, but was a dead duck and was stopped for no gain. The Lions drove down the field just before the end of the first half for a field goal, tying the game at 6-6. We expect to see QB <b>Johnny Manziel</b> for most of the third quarter.</p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph" id="paragraph3" align="center"><a href="http://www.dawgsbynature.com/"><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/1343810/large_dawgsbynature.com.full_medium.png" style="vertical-align: middle;" width="180"></a><b><span>VS.</span></b><a href="http://www.prideofdetroit.com/"><img src="http://cdn0.sbnation.com/uploads/blog/sbnu_logo/63/large_prideofdetroit.com.full.43974.png" style="vertical-align: middle;" width="180"></a></p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph" id="paragraph4" align="center"><b>Game:</b> Cleveland Browns vs. Detroit Lions<br><b>Date/Time:</b> Saturday, August 9, 2014 at 7:30 p.m. ET<br><b>Local Television:</b> WKYC, Channel 3 (Cleveland) - Jim Donovan & Solomon Wilcots<br><b>Local Radio:</b> ESPN 850 WKNR, 92.3 The Fan, 98.5 FM WNCX - Jeff Phelps & Doug Dieken</p>
https://www.dawgsbynature.com/2014/8/9/5987017/cleveland-browns-vs-detroit-lions-3rd-quarter-game-threadChris Pokorny