July 23rd is here. Season tix are in my desk all ready to be used.
Today is the beginning of the most anticipated Cleveland Browns season since they re-colonized in 1999 and maybe even since the Bernie Kosar years. At this time last year I wasn't too excited, because A) The Tribe was rolling and B) Every single "expert" nationally and locally said the Browns were lucky to win three games all year.
My excitement scares me. I had a similar Christmas Eve feeling back in March when the Indians were ready to take it to the next level and were picked by many to make it back to the ALCS and maybe World Series. That's not going to happen this year for many reasons. I hope the Browns don't get caught up in believing their own hype. I don't think they will because they've got the experience now and they know they controlled their own destiny last year and didn't get it done.
Good:
- Offensive Line: Joe Thomas, Eric Steinbach, Hank Fraley make up the best left side Cleveland has seen in a long time.
- Running Back: Jamal Lewis needs to stay healthy and this position should be okay thanks to the OL above.
- Quarterback: Derek Anderson, Brady Quinn, or even Ken Dorsey can be sufficient with this line and Chud's Offense. This position will be under a microscope all camp and Savage better be ready to handle the 2nd string QB's ego and feelings.
- Wide Receiver: Missing Jurevicius will hurt for that third down glue-handed receiver. However, adding Donte Stallworth to Braylon Edwards is going to make for some exciting plays. Donte gives some good Yards After Catch that we didn't have before
- Tight End: Kellen Winslow is going to be the star, however, I love Steve Heiden, because he's more consistent than Winslow and is a good blocker. Rucker will be fun to watch if WInslow's knee acts up.
- Romeo & Chud: Experience will help
TBD:
- Defensive Line: They made good moves in the offseason, but how does that translate on the field? Until Mel
- Linebacker: These guys will be stars if the D-Line stops the run. Kamerion Wimbley, D'Qwell Jackson, Antwan Peek, Andra Davis, Willie McGinest, Leon Williams, and Beau Bell. That's a nice group of players who know each other.
- Mel Tucker: Let's hope the D rallies around this guy. I feel they didn't like Grantham's Rah-Rah style.
Hold your Breath:
- Secondary: I like Sean Jones, but Brodney Pool, Brandon McDonald and the CBs are unproven. That could be trouble when teams air it out.
No predictions yet, but I'm excited. Go Browns!