Browns News

What to Watch: Browns vs. Packers

By Aaron Ziraks
NoLogoNeeded.com Staff Writer

The 2009 Cleveland Browns season has finally arrived. As discussed previously, this — without a doubt — is the best time of the year. Most of us have put the disappointment of 2008 behind us and are ready to move forward with 2009. Granted these next four weeks are practice. But practice football is better than no football. I will take what I can get.

To preview Saturday's game against Green Bay, we are bringing back "What to Watch," which was a weekly summary we did all last year. Right now, there are some hot button issues with the Browns that we will get into, but, for the most part, we are starting with a blank slate.

Click "Read More" below to continue reading "What to Watch."

Will there be a huge difference in how the team carries itself under Mangini?

This may be tough to see right off the bat, but I am hoping we see a marked improvement. At the end of last seson, it was obvious the team had quit on Romeo Crennel. Look for the Browns to play with energy and avoid silly mistakes. By all accounts they have had a tough camp so far, so I believe the team knows what is expected of them.

Brady vs. DA

At this point I trust whatever decision Mangini makes, I have to. I have to believe that he is the right coach to get this franchise out of the dumpster. By believing that, I have to believe that he will make the right choice at quarterback. I have gone on record saying that I do not think DA is an NFL quarterback, but I'm not sold on Quinn either. These next four games will say a lot about where this team is going this year. I think the position is truly up for grabs. Only time will tell who gets the reigns come Sept. 13.

The Browns defense vs. a formidable Packers offense

I will be watching Kamerion Wimbley and the defensive line to see if they can get a pass rush when Aaron Rodgers drops back in the pocket. Also, with a healthy Ryan Grant will the Browns front seven be able to step up and stop the run?

Youth movement

This game, more than any other, will showcase our young talent. I expect Alex Hall to get a lot of playing time. I also expect to see Kaluka Maiva and Beau Bell to get plenty of time to showcase what they have to offer in an NFL game situation. On offense, I would like to see Alex Mack get some time with the first team. Getting him on the same page with the rest of the group is essential if the Browns plan on starting him. I am also looking forward to seeing wide outs Mohamed Massaquoi and Brian Robiskie make plays. My guess is they will get plenty of opportunities.

Can I buy a touchdown for $100, Alex?

I know that the game doesn't count, but it sure would be nice to see the Browns get in the end zone a couple of times — Nov. 17, 2008 was a the last time it happened.

Cleveland Browns at Green Bay Packers
8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15
WKYC Channel 3
Of note: The Browns were 0-4 in the 2008 preseason.

In related NoLogoNeeded.com news, check out Don Delco's column, "Mangini's decisions making sense (so far)."

August 14, 2009 at 6:00 AM

Comments

I agree with all of this. What I really want to see touches on your 1st point - mental toughness. Will this team respond when its back is against the wall (please excuse the cliche). As Mike Tyson once said, "Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth." Obviously, I do not think that will be answered in any of the pre-season games. Still, I think the mental outlook and toughness of this team is more important than any scheme they run or even talent they have.

August 14, 2009 at 11:55 AM by Mark

Why no "What to Watch: Brady Quinn + AJ Hawk vs Derek Anderson"? I know that the supposed shennanigans from the White/Brown scrimmage were swept under the rug, but what are the possibilities that Quinn and his brother-in-law worked out some sort of defensive play tipping-off scheme? I realize that this isn't likely, but me likey conspiracies!

August 14, 2009 at 1:09 PM by The Voice of Reason

I am with you . I am taking a wait and see approach with this team from the top to bottom . I have been duped into buying the "in savage we trust " and the glitter is gold approach taken by multiple super bowl rings on coaches .

The proof will be in the pudding and served on the field . GO BROWNS

August 14, 2009 at 1:34 PM by Mike from Lima

What to Watch: Browns vs. Packers

Comments

Post a comment

NLN's Blog Roll

NFL Blogs