The Cleveland Browns fell to 7-5 on the season after Sunday’s loss at the Buffalo Bills. Starting quarterback Brian Hoyer had another rough game, only completing 18 of 30 passes. In addition to that, Hoyer threw two key interceptions. Hoyer hasn’t really been under the microscope this season because of the simple fact that the Browns have continued to win games, but after Sunday’s defeat, head coach Mike Pettine certainly has a decision to make.
More from Cleveland Browns
- Cleveland Browns have built a formidable defensive line
- Ranking the 5 best NFL uniform changes for the 2023 season
- 2023 NFL Season: Evaluation 3 darkhorse MVP candidates
- Stop sleeping on Deshaun Watson and the Cleveland Browns
- NFL: Predicting the top 5 running attacks for the 2023 season
Rookie Johnny Manziel entered Sunday’s contest in the fourth quarter, after Hoyer was benched, and immediately led the team on an 80 yard drive, which resulted in Manziel scampering for a ten-yard score. Manziel finished the game completing 5 of 8 passes for 63 yards, along with 13 yards on the ground and the touchdown.
I have been advocate for Manziel since he was drafted by the Browns back in May, and it appears that he may finally have his chance to start come next Sunday when Cleveland takes on Andrew Luck and the Indianapolis Colts. Johnny Manziel provides a spark to this team, that Hoyer simply can’t compete with. Over the past three games, Hoyer has thrown six interceptions, while throwing just one touchdown pass.
Johnny Manziel scores his FIRST NFL TD. And busts out the $$$ sign!!! #BreakTheInternet #CLEvsBUF http://t.co/xLYMhG0DH5
— NFL (@NFL) November 30, 2014
Watching Manziel operate the offense in the fourth quarter, against a very talented defense, gave me the belief that he can be the quarterback that this franchise has so desperately been seeking. Obviously the Bills didn’t have to prepare for Manziel this week because they didn’t believe that he would play, but the former Texas A&M Aggies star performed at a very high level when thrown into action. Manziel looked very comfortable in the pocket, going through his progressions, and tucking the ball to run only twice.
With Josh Gordon back in the lineup, and Jordan Cameron likely to return in coming weeks, the Browns have the pieces in place to assist Manziel down the stretch. Cleveland is still firmly a contender in the AFC playoff hunt, despite the loss to Buffalo, and making the switch to Manziel makes a lot of sense. Opposition will now have to prepare for a versatile quarterback, who is also a more than capable passer. We’ll see what decision Coach Pettine makes in the coming days, but riding the ship with Hoyer would be a travesty.