Johnny Football plays back-up to Brian Hoyer in pre-season opener, but leaves as favorite for week one start.
Saturday, the Cleveland Browns played their first pre-season game leading up to the 2014 season. With the hiring of new head coach Mike Pettine, improved defensive acquisitions of Donte Whitner and Karlos Dansby, as well as an obvious upgrade with Ben Tate helping their run game – all focus last night was on the team’s quarterback situation.
The Browns have been undecided on 6-year veteran Brian Hoyer and newly drafted college sensation Johnny Manziel. Johnny Football made his NFL debut with the team, for pre-season play against the Detroit Lions. Although the team would lose in a valiant effort, Manziel made an immediate impact on the gridiron at the 7:32 mark of the second quarter.
After displaying a few moves most will remember from his days at Texas A&M, the 21-year-old player finished with 79.0 QB rating, completing 7/11 passes and led the team in rushing at 27 yards. He’s even been tapped to start their next pre-season game next Monday against the Washington Redskins and will have the chance to showcase his talents with the starting unit for a more successful performance.
Watch highlights from his first ever NFL game above.
“First NFL game in the books. Lots of room to get better but great to be back out on the field #StriveForGreatness #DawgPound“