Mike from Rochester

Why Quinn Will Be THE GUY

2007-12-24T14:29:00Z

First I want to get something out of the way. This Sunday we play all of starters as usual and we go for our 10th win of the season. We do it for two reasons, first winning 10 games is a pretty good accomplishment and secondly and most importantly--WE CAN'T ASK THE COLTS TO PLAY THEIR BIG GUNS IN WHAT IS A MEANINGLESS GAME FOR THEM WHEN WE ARE NOT WILLING TO DO THE SAME. It is that simple. So that means Derek Anderson plays Sunday against the 49ers. We can't make it look to the rest of the league that we are using this as an experimental game in anyway. So Brady Quinn goes his rookie year without taking a snap. We have made our bed, now we have to sleep in it. That's reality and that leads me to the main point of this post.

The Browns made the decision this year to sit Quinn. Anderson played at times very well and at times very poorly. He was at his worst when we needed him most. I would be very curious to see what his QB rating is beginning with the second Steeler game to this point. I am sure it is in decline.

In my humble opinion Anderson's biggest flaws lie in three areas--decision making, accuracy and leadership. He does not seem to go through his progressions properly and we have seen how he struggles with putting the ball on the mark. Most of the time you see our receivers having to make acrobatic catches to keep drives alive. They have to go up and take big hits, rather than catch the ball in stride. But I don't want to dwell on this part of Anderson's game, rather I want to look at what leadership means to the quarterback position.

If you look at Pittsburgh, their best player clearly is Ben Rothlisberger. He is carrying them right now. And he is tough to beat when it counts the most. He is the leader of their team, the guy everyone else looks to in the huddle, the guy leading the charge. It pains me to write this, but they are our chief rival and we have to look at who is keeping us from getting where we want to go. Hines Ward is not the leader of the Steelers. Willie Parker is not the leader of the Steelers etc...etc...

Now take the Colts or the Patriots, two other obvious rivals the Browns have to overcome if they want to someday get to a Super Bowl. Who are the leaders of that those teams. The answer is obvious, Peyton Manning and Tom Brady, respectively. It is not Joseph Addai or Randy Moss etc..etc...

My point is THE LEADER on the Browns should not be a wide receiver (Braylon Edwards) or a tight end (Kellen Winslow), regardless of how talented they are. It just isn't healthy for a team and the main reason for that is the quarterback is the one person who handles the ball on every snap. Think about it. The best designed play can be aborted by a dropped snap from center, a missread of coverages, an errant throw, by not getting the offense out of bad play call or alignment etc...

The quarterback should be the "bell cow" of the franchise. He should be the leader of the offense. If you think of the Patriots who comes to mind first--Tom Brady, the Colts--Peyton Manning, the Steelers--Rothlisberger, the Packers--Favre.

As the leader, the quarterback has to have the personality for the job. His temperment is critical. Others in the huddle have to know they can have an opinion, they can offer advice, but the buck stops with the QB--and it helps if he has star quality. There is a pecking order in any organization or team, and the offense of a football team is no different. the QB in almost all cases has to be the guy. Super Bowls are usually won by a team that has that kind of guy (Elway). There have been exceptions (Dilfer), but that dynasty didn't last very long.

Everyone knows who on this Browns team has the POTENTIAL to be the biggest star. It helps that he has the most jersey sales on the team and he hasn't even taken a snap yet. Stars don't get questioned as much. In part because they are stars and mainly because they are leaders.

You know where I am going with this. Brady Quinn is a no nonsense guy. He will take command of his huddle and run the show. He won't panic and I believe he will play his best when it means the most. Some will argue why didn't he win against SC or in big bowl games. He just did not have the supporting cast. His last game against SC he played his ass off. He carried Notre Dame. Granted that was college and this is the pros. I am the first to admit he has not proved it at this level. Whether he will be accurate enough with his throws remains to be seen.

But I firmly believe when Quinn takes the reigns. This will be his team. Others will have to defer to his judgement on what has to be done. He will carry the team and that is the way it should be. Anderson is a good quarterback, better than half the starters in the NFL, perhaps better than two-thirds. But the Browns need and deserve better than that. Quinn might be that guy. He has the higher ceiling.

Browns fans know what made Bernie Kosar great. It was his leadership, smarts and toughness. It wasn't the physical side of his game. That's the model. Quinn is like that, except his physical tools are better. We haven't had a leader on this team where it needs to be--at the quarterback position--since Kosar. I believe we have that guy now.

So Phil, go ahead and tender Anderson at the highest level. Take that first and third if someone bites and go ahead and work your draft magic. Decision made and we will be a better team for it.

GO BROWNS...

A Browns Fan in Rochester

2007-12-18T02:45:00Z

I know in some corners it has been written that their is some kind of kinship between the Buffalo Bills and Cleveland Browns. That the cities are similar and the fan bases are very much alike. I won't dispute how people feel about Browns opponents, but I can tell you this--beating the Bills in such a meaningful game is just as sweet as whipping the Steelers for many Browns fans living in Rochester, NY.

The bottom line is Browns fans here in Rochester have taken a ton of crap over the years from probably the most arrogant NFL fan base I have ever been exposed to. And I lived near Pittsburgh in the 70s. Think about it--the Bills dominated the AFC in the 90s and the Steelers the entire NFL in the 70s--and I lived near both places. I must be doing something wrong.

At any rate, I heard alot of talk last week about how our defense was soft, we can't run the ball and they have a new all star quarterback. Well, we all saw how soft our defense was; how we couldn't run on the Bills and whose QB played better. Their two best players Donte Whitner, and Lee Evans, are from Cleveland and they want to play for the Browns someday. Need I say more...

As for other matters, my daughter attended the game against Buffalo, and her friend came home with a game ball. Yes, he caught the ball that was kicked in the stands by the Bills punter. Pretty cool huh...

Some quick personnel notes:

Chaun Thompson continues to shine with his limited opportunities. I think he can bring more to the table. He made a great stop on fourth down at the end of the game.
There is great chemistry with this team and in a physical game like football, that means a lot. Team unity can take a team to new heights. Kudos to Romeo for this fact.
I am starting to love our D-line, especially Shaun and Robaire Smith and Ethan Kelly.
Our secondary is suddenly one of the deepest in the NFL. Kudos to Mel Tucker--again.
All apologies go out to Steve Marshall. Remember how we all ripped the Browns for tapping him as our line coach? Sorry Steve, count me among the guys who didn't want you here. I was soooo wrong!!!! You have put in a great blocking scheme that relies on athletic linemen instead of maulers. Just like the old days with Shaf, Hickerson, Morrow, Wooten and Clarke.
I think what I would do with the Anderson,/Quinn situation is sign Derek (if he is open to it) to a two-year deal with all guaranteed money--say in the $7 million dollar a year range. This way we are guaranteed to have depth at the position for at least 2 more years, Quinn at some point will get an opportunity to play either through injury (gulp) or based on various game situations. I am thinking that Anderson would be happy with $14 million guaranteed while still being quite young when that deal is done. I don't want to let him go. I want to buy more time with him. What do you think???
This game coming up with the Bengals reminds of the game when we went down to Cincy late in '86 and bombed them. Let's hope for the same result.
You gotta love Jamal Lewis' attitude and running style. His professionalism is really rubbing off on the younger guys too.
Phil has done an awesome job bringing in talent the past couple of years. As he says, we are primed for a big run of success based on the players age and contract status. A few more horses and we could be a contender for years to come.
Here's a guy I like in next years draft--Trevor Laws of Notre Dame. A DE who can get up field and he plays in the 3-4. No one is talking about him. Maybe I should keep quiet.

Finally, SIT BACK AND ENJOY THIS RUN. THIS IS A GREAT BUNCH OF GUYS TO CHEER FOR AND THEY ARE CLOSE TO BECOMING SOMETHING VERY VERY SPECIAL...

GO BROWNS!!!!

We Must Stop Coaching With Fear--Playing From Ahead

2007-11-19T02:36:00Z

It's funny how a win makes you forget about the blunders the Browns committed Sunday against the Ravens. The euphoria is awesome to say the least, but I want to do my small part to make sure (as if it will really help) these things are corrected.

The heroics of Cribbs, Anderson, Lewis, Edwards, JJ, Winslow and Dawson in those final two possessions pulled out the game for us. But that only became necessary because of changes in our defensive philosophy in the Ravens 2nd and 3rd last possessions of the game.

The Browns, inexcusably stopped blitzing! They played safe. We didn't go for the jugular. Our front line rush combined with the blitzing secondary and linebackers gave Boller fits. Why did we stop? I can make an educated guess Crennel told Grantham to dial up his defense sans the extra rushers. Romeo is the head coach. He makes that call. He is not an innocent bystander. For this game we used the defensive scheme that beat Boller and the Ravens in the season finale from '05. Remember the game saving pick by Brian Russell? By rushing only four men Boller had just enough time to get downfield with the ball.

On the Ravens final possession we blitzed when we had no choice but to--when Baltimore was in field goal range. At that point I yelled at the TV--"thanks Romeo, it is a little too late for that now." And it was, as Stover kicked what could have been the all too familiar game winning field goal.

Bottom line--coach without fear, play to win in all cases and usually you will.

This fear thing underlines the biggest problem the Browns now have. Playing with the lead, playing as a favorite. It is an unfamiliar role in these parts. Well, we better learn how to do it, cause we are good enough now to be in the lead, to be a favorite. Do you agree? And eliminating this "fear thing" starts and ends with the coaching staff and ultimately the head coach. Come on Romeo, for a guy who acts so cavalier all the time you'd think you wouldn't have any problem coaching with some guts!!!

The defense isn't the only unit guilty of this. Early in the season when we were an unknown commodity and searching for an identity we went for the jugular on offense. It seemed everytime we came up with a turnover in the opponents half of the field we threw one in the end zone. Where was that attempt when Wimbley sacked Boller and McGinnest recovered the fumble? We did the same thing in Pittsburgh last week after a turnover.

Why am I writing this after such an exciting win? Because we don't have to win every game like this. Once we build a two score lead, let's ice the game, lest we loose again. We were not lucky to win this. The field goal at the end was good, we went down and scored in OT, and besides, we are the better team.

One final thought...what was up with that no call by the officials on Ray Lewis' tackle of Jason Wright in overtime. He not only grabbed Wright's face mask, but he committed a horse collar tackle on the same play!!! And he did it in space where a blind person could see it. The refs were not calling anything on Baltimore and it was disgusting--unlike the holding call late on the punt return last week against Pittsburgh.

Go Browns

Extra Points--At The Bye Week

2007-10-16T01:31:00Z

Under no conditions can we allow Chudzinski to leave this team for a promotion elsewhere. He is under contract for two more years which is good. He is Lindy Infante. He is a breath of fresh air. He is the Browns future. He get's it.

Do you believe it, we have a player controversy brewing in Cleveland--at right tackle of all places. I never heard of such a thing. Shaffer or Tucker? Shaffer is the better choice. He is much younger, can play some left tackle and he hasn't had the problems Tucker has had. However, Tucker is a great guy to have around. What depth! If an injury comes, plug him in. He is an excellent 6th man. He's John Havlicek! Now there is name out of the past and a Brown too! Whatever you do Phil, don't trade either of these guys before the rapidly approaching trade deadline, unless you can "rape" somebody of course.

Jerome Harrison has to dress from now on. No more inactive list for him. He can scoot. He seems to have learned to protect the ball too when contact nears. Did you see that limp leg he used at the second level Sunday? We will have to find someone else to deactivate--perhaps Ali or depending on the injury situation of the week.

Speaking of the deactivation list, what's up with that? What is the purpose of that dumb list anyway? The players are getting paid regardless. Why can't they dress? Does it exist to keep the better teams from being able to use their depth in a given game? And yes, we are one of the better teams and I am sure it is difficult each week for the Browns staff to select who is deactivated. So if anyone has an answer for me on this goofy situation, I am all ears.

One thing this defense lacks for sure (in addition to not being able to tackle, stop the run or pass, prevent scores etc..) is a fiery leader on the field. Every strong defensive unit has one (eg. Ray Lewis). We have no one like that. McGinest is a good leader but he is more of a teacher type as far as I can tell. All of our linebackers appear to be laid back guys and usually the leader comes from that corp. Our d-lineman--forget it. Since we don't have a rockem, sockem safety, it isn't coming from their either. This is a hole we have to fix for next year. We need to get someone nasty. This is football you know.

Someone please explain to me the RFA status of Derek Anderson. He doesn't walk either.

The Browns brass had better use this Bye week to come up with some different schemes that will yield better results. For one, I would like us to press with our corners. We play too passive. I think Bodden, Wright (who is improving before our eyes), and Holly do a good job. They are the strength of our defense. Maybe Baxter will be a savior at the safety position. Now that would be a good story!

I like when we play McGinest with his hand down. He played pretty well Sunday and he seems to be moving better than he was last year. Him, Wimbley, Peek and R. Smith on paper aren't a bad pass rush unit in obvious passing situations. At times they have done pretty well together.

We have 10 games left folks, and we are going to win between 5 and 7 of them. Six may get us in the playoffs, 7 will for sure. We're going to the playoffs this year, and next year we are going to do serious damage there.

This team reminds me of the Browns of the 60s, when they had a prolific offense and a suspect defense.

Let's see how things develop.

Paging Joey Porter, Paging Joey Porter...

Go Browns!!!

At The Quarter Pole

2007-10-04T03:02:00Z

First off I have got to clean up some old business. I was wrong about Charlie Frye. I thought he was going to surprise this year. He didn't. He played to his past form. I wrote months back that I saw the Browns having a "poor man's" San Diego situation from a few years back. I think I was correct on that view, I just got the quarterbacks mixed up. With a little bit of luck, Anderson and Quinn might turn out to be for us what Breese and Rivers were for the Chargers.

Now on to new business. As I was leaving the Stadium Sunday I heard a fan shout out "you better get used to this!" I think he is right. These Browns are developing. They are showing an energy and determination and belief that we have not seen here in decades. Gus like Winslow and Edwards; the passion that Lewis brings etc...will not allow the Browns to go down without a fight. And when you have playmakers-- the Browns could end up winning alot of games.

Most of all, the offensive line is fast becoming the kind of unit that leads teams to titles. I was pumped when the Browns drafted Thomas. I remember being at Shula's for the Draft bash and running around like a nut when we picked him. The kid has got it. He is going to have some growing pains but it is obvious he is a fast learner.

As for the defense, don't panic yet. Football seasons are journeys. Sometimes a teams' weakness evolves into a strength over the course of a season. Peek's foot injury set the defense back some. McGinnest's return is going to help. But we have to shelve Big Ted. He is done and he is hurting the team mightily. Look for improvement in the coming weeks from Eric Wright (maybe not against Moss) and the rest of the secondary.

Trust me when I say this, that opening game we played against Pittsburgh gave us some false reads. The Steelers are not as good as they looked that day, and we have proven to be not as bad we played on Sept. 9.

If you are old enough to remember this, we are the Browns of 1985. And we know what came after that.

Yes, the Browns are 2-2 at the quarter pole, and it is a solid 2-2. We didn't win games by lucky brakes, scooping up fumbles to steal games. We won by solid o-line play, great special teams (Cribbs) and an occasional stop or two on defense.

I really believe the Browns will win AT LEAST 8 GAMES, and be involved in the playoff talk in early December--and who knows??? What I am certain of is that there is a power shift going on in the AFC. Look at it. The Broncos are a weak 2-2; the Chiefs and Dolphins stink in my book. The Chargers are adrift with "Mush" from the Bronx Tale coaching them (everything Norv Turner touches turns to mush); the Jets got by with a weak schedule last year and they are showing their true colors now. The Bengals, at 1-3, will make a run, but their defense is a mess and they will fall short.

The biggest improvement in the Browns can be attributed to the offensive system employed by Chud. When coaches and players talk about a vertical passing attack they are talking about downfield routes, seam patterns, receivers catching the ball while facing the opponents goal line netting yards after catch. Not the system (Carthon) where Winslow had to battle three defenders off while catching a dump off with his back to the defense. Look at the mileage we are getting out of our passing game! It makes you wonder why more coaches don't run this system. I am sure the O-line has something to do with it.

I would start thinking about extending Jamal Lewis' contract. I like what I see out of him. We have played 3 tough defenses; one weak one, and he has more than held his own overall. He is far from washed up. If he plays well in October, I would lock him up.

Finally, look for the Browns to force the Patriots to make a play late to beat them.

Remember, this is 1985 and we put a real scare into the undefeated Dolphins---sound familiar?

Browns NOT Hurt By Injuries

2007-08-10T01:47:00Z

Other than the pain and suffering incurred by the player and their families (and I don't mean to minimize that on a human level), the rash of training camp injuries are a non issue. So don't panic. I take the view that these injuries are a blessing in disguise.

And here is why.

I have felt for a long time that Chaun Thompson was a solid defender. A guy who for some reason was always being jerked around by the coaching staff and a guy who certainly was not given the chance to play for the current regime. In fact, our buddy Jeff Schudel, has shared that view for some time. On the Tuesday night radio shows he used to say Chaun would be snapped up the next day if the Browns released him. And he would have been!

Matt Stewart, not a bad guy and an OK player, would have struggled to make the team this season. McGinnest's playing days are over. Other than recovering a key fumble last year he basically gave us nothing. Our linebacking corps is set. We are better off with Thompson in the mix. He has paid his dues. He can help us. You watch.

I like Williams, Davis, Jackson, Peak, Thompson, Wimbley and perhaps McMillan, Unck and another special team's type to round out this corp.

I disagree with those who say we have to go out and sign a veteran. No way. We are good. But Peak has to rehab his leg and the rest of the group needs to stay healthy.

As for Roye's injury, we need him. So he misses the preseason! He doesn't need it. He isn't going to play every down this year anyway. We will use a rotation. Savage has built this team with an eye towards versatility and he has that in S. Smith. Yes, D-line is an area of concern, and we can't take hits there, but I think we will be OK.

THE ONE GUY WE CAN'T LOOSE IS STEINBACH, but all reports are that he will be back in a few weeks. We have Friedman to hold the fort plus some young bucks who will get to play in the preseason. The starters don't have to play a ton together in exhibition games. As long as they are practicing they will be fine.

In no way do I want to release Ryan Tucker once he is eligible to come back. That is short sighted thinking. It is the same as if we had released Thompson after last season as was speculated. Where would we be now? Beating the waiver wire for guys that haven't played in a year?

THE MORAL OF THE STORY IS YOU NEVER RELEASE GOOD PLAYERS, NEVER! You don't know what the future holds. having Tucker ineligible for 4 weeks saves us cutting perhaps a Steptoe or Ali or some other young buck who might be able to help us. At least we can take a look at someone else for a few weeks longer. And besides, we might loose somebody to injury in the first 4 weeks and then we can activate Tucker. He is not going to forget how to play just because he missed 4 games--don't overact to this.

Coaches live in the moment. You are as good as your last game, your last play etc. So now Tucker is a non entity. He will be an entity again when that "next coaches moment comes".

One last thing, and I have said this a million times before. Charley Frye is going to surprise. I think he will be our starting QB on opening day. Just how some argue Crennel deserves a chance to show what he can do with this improved roster, so does Frye. He will hold down the job until the day Quinn is ready--and I am in no hurry for that to happen. Quinn will play when the situation is right.

Watch and see. Good things are happening.

GO BROWNS!!!

Buffoonery in Berea?

2007-05-07T02:03:00Z

I'm nervous. I'm nervous.

I didn't like what I heard out of Berea this weekend and it has NOTHING to do with the players particpating in the rookie mini camp.

It's the coaches.

Did you catch the comments made by Crennel? Did you hear Joe Thomas say that his technique was being tweaked by Steve Marshall. My God, it is the first day of camp and Marshall is changing what has been successful for Thomas. And then we hear Doug Dieken give a ringing endorsement to Bob Palcic, Thomas' college line coach, saying that Palcic knows what he is doing. Conversely, does that mean Marshall doesn't? Could Dieken have been giving Marshall a left-handed compliment? As you know, Marshall's track record is not stellar.

Maybe.

I don't want to be negative, but I am worried about this staff. Not to mention Crennel's low-key approach when speaking about the performance of his players. Now is the time for the coaches to be positive in their comments about their new players--not start tearing them down. After all, it is the new guys who are giving this team and city hope, something that has been missing in Cleveland, oh say for about 20 years.

Then there is our QB coach changing the trajectory of Quinn's throws. Please, I know I was concerned about his accuracy, but offensive guru Charlie Weiss got Quinn to where he is today, I don't want Scherer changing things right out of the shoot for crying out loud.

Then there is Crennel wondering out loud what he will learn about his staff as they work with the players for the first time. You think he would have a good feel for that going in!

My God, it is the first weekend with the coaches and the buffoonery is already starting. About the only guy I have a good feeling about on this staff is Chudzinski.

I wrote in my last blog that Phil Savage has done his job--and he has. He has given the Browns the best talent they have seen in Cleveland since perhaps the late 80s. Now he has to turn that talent over to this coaching staff.

Phil you are the right man for the job. You work the draft, convince high priced free agents to come to Cleveland, you don't just dump players without getting something in return (Droughns for Carter etc..) But please...DON'T BE OVERLY PATIENT WITH THIS STAFF. Nobody wants to go through a coaching change, but under the circumstances you cannot afford to be overly pataient with Crennel.

This team is not void of talent. Remember the old phrase Bum Phillips used to say about Don Shula 'he could beat you with his or he could beat his with yours."

Trust me, alot of coaches could beat "theirs" with ours--and that is what worries me. I hope my initial feelings prove incorrect.

Go Browns!

Phil's Belief System / Our '08 First Round Pick

2007-04-30T01:39:00Z

I had the opportunity to represent the OBR at the Shula's Steak 2 Draft Bash. The Sports Talk Cleveland gang was there in full force broadcasting the events of the day.

What I will take away from draft '07 is the knowledge that Phil Savage gets it. He knows how to go about building a football team. Phil drafting Thomas number one shows that he realizes nothing matters unless you fortify the trenches of your football team. I am happy he made that choice.

As soon as Miami passed on Quinn, a shocker to anyone I am sure, the buzz started about Phil moving up to grab Quinn. Joe Savage, Phil's brother was in attendance, he shared the anecdote that his mother called to say Phil was moving up to draft Quinn. Something about his mom being in tune with the going's on as they happened struck me as being a real positive thing. It's part of that support system that Phil often mentioned and called upon when he was going through hard times during the John Collins fiasco.

It is support like that which enables you to make bold moves and lead an organization--and make no mistake about it, Phil Savage is the leader of this organization. Even if some of these players don't end up cutting it on the field, Phil still is the right man for the Browns. He has the knowledge, determination and proper character traits for the job.

Even though making these two first round moves was the right thing to do for the Browns in general, a byproduct is Romeo Crennel gets rewarded for his loyalty to Phil during the Collins power struggle. Loyalty is big to Phil and ultimately he understands that his first loyalty and committtment is to Randy Lerner and the fans of the Cleveland Browns.

The pressure now will build on Crennel. He has some horses now. Yes, some of the horses are young and unproven (Thomas, Quinn, Wright etc...), but there is talent on this team. Phil went for it on draft day and free agency, now Crennel has to go for it on the field. He has to "coach em up".

Other draft reflections:

I honestly believe our team is nearing completion. The units on both sides of the ball are coming together. With some good health we can do some serious damage this year; '08 the latest. In fact, I think if we had two more solid veteran peformers, one at running back and a good defensive end who could rush the passer, the puzzle would be complete. I am talking about people of the caliber of an Aaron Smith of the Steelers or a Travis Henry of the Titans. Not that these guys are available, they aren't. But players at their talent level are about all that is needed for us to be a solid playoff contender.Chris Brown is still out there isn't he? Maybe that is asking too much at this point?

We will have a first round pick in 08. And his name is--LeCHARLES BENTLEY. Get well LeCharles, take your time, don't rush things and we will see you soon!

As I stated in my last blog, we do not need a team president. The Browns are doing just fine without one.

I like the Chase Pittman selection. He could be a good rotation guy.

Wouldn't it really be something if Thomas and Quinn really make it big, it could be Clay Matthews and Ozzie Newsome all over again!

You got to be kidding me, two of the Fab Five on the Browns!!!

The national talking heads still are not giving the Browns enough credit for our draft.

I look for Charley Frye to step up his performance level and take advantage of the improved supporting cast. No more excuses and no need to rush Quinn. When the time is right he will play.

Go Browns!!! And they did!!!

Must Predraft Read!!!

2007-04-28T01:18:00Z

I am punchy. This predraft stuff is killing me, it is all a blur.

Why am I even bothering writing anything when it is just hours before the draft and now one is going to read this?

Because I guess I always wanted to write one of those articles where you don't have to have a train of thought--where you don't have to make things sound right.

So here are some random thoughts just hours before the 2007draft.

Ryan Kalil is still my favorite player in this draft...with Laron Landry a close second.

Does anybody really think that John Beck of the dreaded WAC is better than Troy Smith? Come on!!!

I am sure Beck would have been terrific against Florida after a 60 day layoff--or whatever it was.

do yourself a favor and watch the draft on the NFL Network and bag ESPN. Have you ever seen (or unfortunately heard) a bigger bunch of blowhards than that all star cast assembled this year? The ex 49er QB, I can't even remember his name. I told you I was punchy. Keshawn Johnson, now there's a guy who adds alot of credibility to the show...Chris Berman, who never saw a pick he didn't like..now he is a real controversial guy! He should be doing the NBA draft with that coach with the gray perm.

Kiper, though, is making a comeback in my mind. He has taken on all comers, Todd McShay, Mike Mayock etc. and he still has good opinions in my book. He knows where the players should be bought and he is not afraid to offer a take--hello Chris Berman.

Mel also knows who we are taking. Phil told him and he ain't sharing...but he has Quinn in his mock.

If the Browns take Quinn first they had better take a quality offensive lineman in the second round...hold off on the corner...YOU WIN WITH BIG PEOPLE!!! But please take Thomas in one. I hope Adam Caplan is right on this one.

Thomas will succeed because of his work ethic and athleticism.

You know what, alot of the guys drafted over the weekend will fail because of poor positional coaching in the NFL...Robert Gallery just went back to Iowa to get some good coaching. He ain't getting it in Oakland.

Who is going to coach up Crennel on challenges?

And last but not least...I don't want to hear anymore how the Browns need a team PRESIDENT. Where is all the talk now about a team PRESIDENT?

Did he Browns need a team PRESIDENT to add all those free agents? to trade Reuben? to prepare for the draft? No, No and No.

I am sure John Collins would have been a great help through this process.

Lastly, I will be at Shula Steak 2 for the OBR, how to see you there!

Go Browns...

Connect the Dots & My Picks

2007-04-18T03:00:00Z

Connect the dots.

That's what you have to do when you try to figure out a football team's secret strategy regarding the NFL draft. Here is a small example of that based on recent statements made by the Cleveland Browns front office.

Today Phil Savage repeatedly emphasized in his press conference that in team meetings it is made clear that the club will NOT be able to fill every need and that the coaches better be prepared to work with what they have on hand. It is similar to when you made your christmas wish list when you were a kid. You wanted everything, and if you were like most us, you got some of those things, not all.

In reality, I think the Browns believe they can fill most of the balance of the holes on the team in this draft, given free agency on paper plugged many gaps.

The Browns are in need of another quality offensive lineman, preferably a left tackle, another stout defensive end, a running back, quarterback and corner. Mind you, they don't need just bodies, but rather quality at each of those positions.

Recently Browns player personnel assistant TJ McCreight went on record to say that after this draft the Browns troubles on the offensive line will be a thing of the past. In other words, the Browns are going to put that unit to bed. So connect the dots. The Browns can't solve all the problems, but they are saying the o-line is one unit that will be taken care of. Alleluia! That is putting priorities in order. I therefore expect the Browns to address the offensive line with quality in either the first or second round. I believe the position that will be somewhat sacrificed--or where the coaches will have to "make do" is the cornerback or running back positions.

With all this in mind, below are three different seven round draft scenarios that I think would work for the Browns. I have them listed in my personal order of preference (A, B and C) and I attempted to slot the players in the rounds they would realistically be selected in. Trades were not considered, though moving down is a viable option.

CHOICE "A" CHOICE "B" CHOICE "C"

1. JOE THOMAS ADRIAN PETERSON BRADY QUINN

2. JUSTIN HARRELL BEN GRUBBS BEN GRUBBS

3. TONY HUNT RAY McCDONALD TONY HUNT

4.TROY SMITH TROY SMITH KAREEM BROWN

5.DAVID IRONS DAVID IRONS DAVID IRONS

6. TRAVAROUS BAIN TRAVAROUS BAIN TRAVAROUS BAIN

7. JEFF SAMARDZIJA JEFF SAMARDZIJA JEFF SAMARDZIJA

Go Browns!

What! No Carr or Green!

2007-03-28T01:18:00Z

What? No David Carr, no Trent Green, no veteran quarterback for the Browns in '07! We're doomed!

Okay, I know I wrote about this previously, but the topic of who is going to start at QB for the Browns continues to be a hot topic in these forums and especially now that Savage and Crennel addressed the issue at the NFL owners meetings.

I am pleased to say that our GM has not brought in a veteran quarterback from the outside, nor does he have plans to do so. His approach is the sensible one, build a team around the quarterback, not the other way around. That way has failed far too often.

There is no need to bring in a veteran retread with concussion issues (Green), bad wheels (Green), a lame brain (Carr) or whatever. Look, I respect the opinion of fellow bloggers and the fine writers and astute football analysts you hear from on this wonderful site. BUT WE HAVE A VETERAN QUARTERBACK ON THIS TEAM AND HIS NAME IS CHARLIE FRYE. This is his third year in the league and he has a real offensive coordinator to work with this season, even though this will be Chud's first full year directing an NFL offense. I believe Charlie will show one way or the other in '07 whether he can do the job. I think he will prove alot of people wrong.

Savage basically said he wants his quarterbacks to have some mobility and possess an arm good enough to combat the winds of Lake Erie. Charlie has at least the former and perhaps he can make do with his arm. It wasn't a lack of arm strength that hurt him last season, rather it was his decision making and overall pocket presence. Those are things that come with experience, and at times he was good in those areas and at other times he was not. I am counting on the fact that with another year under his belt, Browns fans will indeed see solid performances more often than not.

Tied to all this quarterback banter is the question of who will the Browns select with their first round pick. My choice all along has been Joe Thomas, so we can complete the last piece of the puzzle on that problematic line. Now, if the Browns do not select Thomas, I will not have a cow, PROVIDED THEY ADDRESS THE 0-LINE IN THE SECOND ROUND with a quality pick, such as Joe Staley, Aaron Sears, Justin Blaylock etc. Remember, the Patriots nabbed starting left tackle Matt Light in round two and the Chargers grabbed Marcus McNeill there also.

So that means I won't go nuts if they do take a quarterback with their first choice, as long as they couple it with that lineman in the second. Picking a quarterback first (Russel or Quinn) and stating that Frye could be solid in '07 is not a contradiction nor an indictment on Frye. It is just saying that Frye is the guy in '07 and we hopefully have a future franchise QB in waiting who can sit and watch for a year.

Think of it this way, it is kind of a POOR man's Drew Brees and Phillip Rivers situation. I know you are all gasping on that one!

As I have stated before, if the Browns do take Thomas first, they have alot of options in round two. They can go D-line (Justin Harrell) or perhaps corner (Aaron Ross, Marcus McCauley). Ross, if he was still available at pick 36 could also plug the hole that exists in the punt return role.

Don't be surprised if the Browns do pass on a QB in the first round that they take a good look at our friend from Cleveland via Columbus--Troy Smith in the third. Again, taking a quarterback in the draft is not a slam that Frye definitely won't make it. Rather it is saying a Smith, Quinn or whomever just might develop into something special. Keep in mind, Smith is mobile, has a very good arm and his release is better than people think contrary to reports you may have read. Kind of sounds like Savage's desired quarterback skill sets to me! Quarterbacks taken in later rounds all have some question marks (Smith's height, Montana's size and arm, Brady's whatever) that is why they weren't selected in the first.

So go ahead and make your choice. I've made mine, and it does not include a retread. I think the Browns agree with that.

Go Browns!

Injuries, Systems & Savage's Dream Draft

2007-03-19T11:06:44Z

The storm has settled down. The first frenzied days and weeks of free agency are over and with it the Cleveland Browns can look back and say they had quite a haul.

Besides Steinbach, the brown and orange did not reel in many big names, rather Phil Savage concentrated on bringing in players to fit the team's system, whether those players have shown "star" potential or not.

We all joke around here that this is the best time of year to be a Browns fan. We haven't lost any games, the injured players are getting healthy, we had money to spend and we capitalized on that fact.

But is there really reason to be optimistic?

Yes. Absolutely. Like everyone else in this league, the players we sign have to come through, perform the roles they are supposed to and most of all stay healthy. The biggest thing for these eight additions--Steinbach, McKinney, S. Smith, R. Smith, Lewis, Peek, Wright and Carter, is that they all have to stay healthy. Did I already say that?

One of the main reasons the Browns have always looked so disjointed since 1999 is the injury factor. Teams use systems and you can't run the system you install in March if the personnel to run it in October are recovering from surgery in Florida!

The teams that march through the regular season and deep into the playoffs do so in large part because the key ingredients to do so are available to the team on a weekly basis. When you see the Browns going with third string personnel, that is not Browns, rather, it is Phil Savage doing his best to plug holes with street free agents--guys that almost always are gone the next season or as soon as the regulars come back. Occasionally you get lucky with a street free agent, such as Daven Holly, who I think has huge upside and showed quite well last year.

To judge this free agent class we need to see Steinbach at left guard, McKinney at right guard, S. Smith spelling Washington, Robaire starting at right end next to Wimbley, Peek rushing the edge from the left, Lewis pounding the ball and making those cut back runs, Carter stretching the field and Wright in the dime.

I believe if these guys are available to Romeo for the majority of the season, we will see quite a difference in the team's performance. It is time to be optimistic. It is time we stay injury free for a change!

Draft musings...

For the Quinn haters out there (and I am not one of them), I don't believe you have to worry about him coming to Cleveland. The Lions will take him and the quarterbacks will go 1 (Russell) and 2 in this draft like they always do.

Barring Detroit being bowled over by a blockbuster trade offer, Quinn is their guy. They signed a starting tackle (Foster) and picked up running backs (Bell and Duckett)... they have Kitna, the fourth quarter or end of the half interception machine..they have Martz on their staff--need I say more.

I am guessing Savage's day one dream draft would be Quinn in one and Joe Staley (Central Michigan OT) in two and perhaps Taynard Jackson (the corner from Syracuse in three). I don't think Savage will be able to see that dream become a reality for the reasons stated above.

If the QBs go 1 and 2, Savage will trade down and still get one of the three other members of the Fab Five--Thomas, Peterson or Johnson, plus an extra second or third round pick. I believe this is his plan B. Remember, he always talks about having alternate plans.

Two of my favorite players in this year's draft are Ryan Kalil (the USC center) and LaRon Landry (LSU safety), but neither player fits our needs any longer. I am sure they will torment us in the future.

Thomas is the Pick

2007-03-10T03:56:00Z

Let's face it, no one really knows for sure which players at the top of the draft are going to make it big, bust or just be mediocre.

In this year's edition we have five players who have separated themselves from the pack-- J.Russell, B Quinn, A.Peterson, C. Johnson and J.Thomas.

Back in 2000 there was a big debate amongst Browns' fans--do we go with Courtney Brown or Lavar Arrington? I was an Arrington guy. With the benefit of history, we realize now that neither lived up to expectations.

So, how should history, uncertainty and the role that potential plays effect the Browns first pick in '07?

Simple. Look at the positions the top five guys play and use that as a key ingredient in making your choice as to whom the Browns should take in round one. We have two quarterbacks, one running back, one wide receiver and one offensive left tackle.

Free agency is barely a week old. Who were the first players signed? Which position garnered the most money? Right out of the shoot Steinbach, Dockery, Davis all signed for $50mm. Yes, Clements had that record contact, but I would argue that was more of the exception than the rule. The point is, linemen, good ones and average ones for that matter, are hard to find and they are in high demand. Today we see running back movement in free agency--Henry, Lewis etc. That is because GMs around the league took care of the priority first, the offensive line.

For years Browns fans have lusted for the Orlando Paces, Walter Jones and Tony Bosellis to shake free in free agency. It never happened. That is why if Joe Thomas is available at three he should be the pick. A good line makes the skill positions better. Don't get me wrong, there isn't one player of the Fab Five that I wouldn't want to have on our roster. They all played great in college. They all have the prototype numbers, but they don't all play offensive left tackle. This could be the first year that we finally can get our hands on that left tackle that has eluded us since Doug Dieken retired. Do you remember there once was a time when for over 30+ years the Browns had only three left tackles--Groza, Schafrath and Dieken. Now it seems we have a different left tackle each season. It is time to bring stability to that position once and for all.

If Thomas is all that he is supposed to be, he should step in and start from day one. Then you could leave Steinbach at his natural left guard position, Fraley at center, perhaps Tucker at right guard and Shaffer at right tackle. Not bad huh?

As for Droughns and Lewis... I see where the Browns are going to move Droughns one way or the other. I would have preferred to keep both and put that position to bed. We could have had two power backs. Now with just Lewis (and I do think he has a bit more talent than Reuben) we have to go out and get another running back. This is an example of spinning your wheels. You don't give away good football players. This reminds me of the Jeff Faine move last year.

On another subject. Admit it. Isn't this time of year like Christmas for us Browns fans? We wait breathlessly for news of the next possible signing. Then when you get one it gives you a high for about 24 hours. Then you come down and you need another rumor that turns into reality. Yes we are all geeks in our own way. At least this is the fun time of year for Cleveland fans. Lord knows when May 1 rolls around the fun ends. Why May 1? That is about the time the first minicamp is held and surely this year's Sean Jones will tear up a knee in a non-contact drill--gosh I shouldn't have said that.

Don't Give Up on Frye

2007-02-27T14:17:00Z

Pretty much most Browns fans and a majority of the media (both national and Cleveland area) believe Charlie Frye isn’t the quarterback for the Browns. The Browns brass is also very lukewarm concerning Charlie’s ability to be the man for the Browns.

Don’t count me among them. Do I think Charlie has proven he is the guy—no way, but I am convinced now is not the time to give up on him. His year to prove he can be player is coming this fall. This will be his third year. He has some much needed experience behind him. He needs a fair look. Our line was miserable last year, our running game non existent. He looked very good against the Ravens in Cleveland. It wasn’t his fault our pass protection scheme was all wrong on that slant pattern to Edwards. Go look at the tape. He did well against the Chiefs, when he finally had a running game.

Another thing, we played against some of the best defenses in the league last season. Everyone up my way was talking about the progress Bills QB JP Losman was making. Well he was, until he played a defense like the Ravens.

It is not that I think Charlie is definitely the guy; it is just the wrong time to write him off. Phil Savage says a lot of things, playing both sides of the fence on key issues concerning the team.

This is understandable given it is draft time and Brady Quinn may be on the horizon. When Savage says Frye (or possibly Anderson for that matter) may be capable of doing the job with the right support system, he may indeed be correct and telling the truth.

There is pressure for the Browns to win now—at least for Crennel if not Savage. A rookie QB won’t provide that, nor will any of the low ranking free agents out there. I say try to pick up Troy Smith, perhaps in the third round. I think he can play. Develop him. Let Frye be the veteran in ’07 and build a real team around him and whoever eventually takes the reigns at QB.

In terms of Smith, I am concerned he will be picked right in front of us by Tamba Bay with the last pick in the second round. Sobo had that in his mock draft a few weeks back and it could happen. I don't want Smith to show too well right now, that is better for us. This way he will be there in the third round.

On thing I would like to express, I am not an Ohio State fan, though I like their program, I actually am a big Notre Dame fame. I like Quinn alot, but I am not 100% sold on him. It is that accuracy thing. I will never forget the SC game at ND when he was a junior. All he had to do was hit his back out of the backfield on third down to run the clock out and he missed him. If he makes that throw the back walks in and SC's late Leinert score is meaningless.

At his time we really don’t know who to draft with our first round pick until the first wave of free agency ends. Let’s see how that plays out before we lock into a certain player. Right now, my first choice would be Joe Thomas, my second choice would be to trade down and my third choice would be AP.

If ever there was an opportunity to trade down it is this year. Most observers believe Tampa Bay covets Calvin Johnson. Good. Let’s move down if Thomas isn’t there to about 7, 8 or nine. The Vikings would love Johnson and the Dolphins allegedly want Quinn.

But first let’s see how things shake out with the early signings of free agency.

Are you going to tell me, if the Browns somehow got lucky and signed BOTH, YES I MEAN BOTH, Steinbach and Diehlman and drafted Thomas, Charlie wouldn’t be able to get the job done? Think about it. It is possible. Sign both guards, draft Thomas, pick up Michael Bush in round 2, and now you have something. Maybe Steinbach and Diehlman are a bit of a dream, but Savage did say he could very well sign two offensive linemen.

Go for it Browns and don’t right Charlie off yet. With experience under his belt he may yet prove to be the guy.

Very few quarterbacks ever looked good in their first and second seasons regardless of what type of mechanics they had, good or bad. If Charley bombs, and the rest of the offense is in place, we can pick up a veteran in ’08 or perhaps Smith might be ready to take over. At the very least Smith can be the backup in ’08. That is assuming Smith won’t go to Tampa at 64.

I will have more to offer in my next entry regarding who I think we should look at in a trade down scenario.

A CASE FOR COLLINS

2007-02-10T22:41:05Z

Like all Browns fans everywhere I rejoiced over the fact that Gene Hickerson finally made it to the Hall of Fame in Canton. Any fan of football who saw Gene play knew that the selection to Canton was long, long overdue. As many writers have pointed out lately, it is a shame it did not occur much earlier. Frankly, my heart did not bleed that Michael Irvine had to wait "three long arduous" years to be selected for a trip to Canton. Three years? Compared to Gene? You have to be kidding me. At the same time, I was heartened by the fact that two other "old timers" or senior players, Roger Wehrli and Charlie Sanders were also tapped for the hall. It was good to see that the media of today is starting to realize that football actually existed before the likes of Troy Aikman, Steve Young and Howie Long.

Perhaps now there is a chance that other former Cleveland Browns could get the call to the hall. Players who come to mind include Jerry Sherk and Clay Mathews. A compelling argument can be made for both those defensive stalwarts. However, there is one name that never seems to get any mention whatsoever, and yet it is so obvious that he belongs with the elite of his position. And that player is Gary Collins.

Consider the following comparison:

For years Browns fans had to endure former media darling Lynn Swann. Boy, how the media gushed over him. Do you recall? Why he was the MVP of the Super Bowl. He made 336 catches for 5,462 yards and 51 touchdowns over a 9-year career. He was selected to the pro bowl three times, averaged 16 yards per catch and was a top punt returner early in his career. He was known as a clutch performer who made acrobatic catches.

Hmm..Let's look at Collins. He was MVP of the 1964 NFL Championship game (the then super bowl--and don't tell me the AFL was on par back then, it wasn't). Over his ten-year career he had 331 catches for 5,299 yards and 70 touchdowns--that's right 70!!! And he did that in an era that wasn't pass happy with relaxed rules to protect the wideouts. He played in two pro bowls and was a top special teams performer as a punter from 1962-1967 with a 41.1 yard average. When he was back in punt formation he was known to take off and run for key first downs, if I recall correctly he did that twice in the same game. As for being a clutch performer, well, his nickname was Mr. Clutch. Once Gary's hands were on the ball it was a catch. It was that simple. You could not jar the ball loose from him--it was impossible. He went over the middle constantly, his favorite pass route was the post pattern. If you protected against that route, he faked it and went to the corner. Just ask Herb Adderly of Green Bay (see '65 title game). He went against Wehrli, had fierce battles with Hall of Famer Larry Wilson and Pat Fischer etc. etc...Even by today's standards, he would still be a big receiver at 6'4", 215lbs.

The bottom line is if you look at statistics he deserves to be in the hall. If you look at his performance when it mattered most he deserves to be there. If you compare him to other receivers in the hall he deserves to be there. When you look at the defensive backs he went up against he deserves to be there. When you look at the success of his team, he deserves to there.

Collins' partner, Paul Warfield is in the hall, Swann's Stallworth is in the hall. Put # 86 in.

I for one am sick and tired of "media darlings" and players turned lousy broadcasters receiving recognition, when others who are just as deserving are being ignored. Let's make a Case for Collins and get him in the hall before it is too late for him and us to enjoy.

MikeFromRochester