The Donovan McNabb Experiment - A Cleveland Browns Dynasty (1999)

[SKA]

For the first time since 1995, the Cleveland Browns were to be back on the field, sporting their classic uniforms and immersing helmets. Since 1944, the Cleveland Browns have been a force in football. They dominated the AAFC early on in the 1940's, and would proceed to jump to the NFL to capture the 1950, 1954, 1955, and of course, 1964 NFL Championships. The Browns would continue their success without reaching the ultimate goal, with plenty of fumbles, interceptions, and bad luck to get in the way. But the worst would come in 1995, when that bastard Art Modell took this city's heart and opened shop in Baltimore.
Of course the Baltimore Ravens would go on to sport one of the most dominating defense's in NFL history and would win a Super Bowl as well, but this is not that story.

This is a different story. The story of how one decision can impact the rest of history for one franchise.

This is the story of Tim Couch.

And Donovan McNabb.

It was actually three men, however, who were the story of the 1999 NFL Draft.

Real life history would watch the Browns take their pick at either Couch or his reported competition for the number one spot, Akili Smith.

Of course both Couch and Smith would go on to lead failures of a career, while both are also regarded as two of the biggest draft busts, especially for the quarterback position, in recent and entire NFL history. But the other man, Donovan McNabb, would go on to a very productive career with the Philadelphia Eagles, playing with the team for ten straight years, and leading his team to a Super Bowl loss during his most impressive 2004 season. Although he would fail to win the big one, and would also succumb to very unforunate injuries which would stump the end of his career, McNabb had finished with an impressive six Pro Bowl selections at the QB position, and has certainly had a far more successful career than both Couch and Smith combined.

Well what if, just what if the Browns hadn't counted out McNabb?

What if they built their team differently and selected McNabb number one overall?

What is the story...?

[SKA]

Re: The Donovan McNabb Experiment - A Cleveland Browns Dynasty (1999)

1999 Cleveland Browns Roster/Depth Chart

OFFENSE
QB. Donovan McNabb (R) (76/91)
RB. Terry Kirby (81)
FB. Marc Edwards (75/76)
TE. Irv Smith (76)
WR. Leslie Shepherd (75)
WR. Kevin Johnson (74)
LT. Lomas Brown (92)
LG. Jim Pyne (76)
C. Dave Wohlabaugh (81)
RG. Steve Zahursky (R) (63)
RT. Orlando Brown (81)
BENCH
QB. Ty Detmer (73)
RB. Karim Abdul-Jabbar (76/81)
RB. Rashaan Salaam (73)
RB. Madre Hill (R) (74)
RB. George Jones (70)
RB. Sedrick Shaw (63)
FB. Tarek Saleh (75)
TE. Randy Palmer (R) (70)
TE. Mark Campbell (R) (63/68)
TE. James Dearth (R) (63)
WR. David Dunn (75)
WR. Ronnie Powell (R) (74)
WR. Zola Davis (R) (67)
WR. Damon Dunn (R) (60/67)
WR. Darrin Chiaverini (R) (58/64)
T. Chris Ruhman (67)
T. Roger Chanoine (R) (64)
G. Scott Rehberg (68)
G. Orlando Bobo (64/74)
C. Ryan Kheul (70)
C. Jim Bundren (R) (60/63)

(R) denotes first-year rookie

DEFENSE
DE. John Thierry (75)
DT. John Jurkovic (75)
DT. Hurvin McCormack (72)
DE. Tyrone Rogers (R) (68/73)
LB. Wali Rainer (R) (70/74)
LB. Jamir Miller (81/87)
LB. James Williams (74)
CB. Ryan McNeil (81)
CB. Antonio Langham (75/78)
S. Marquez Pope (84)
S. Corey Fuller (81)
BENCH
DE. Derrick Alexander (72)
DE. Arnold Miller (R) (68/74)
DT. Bill Duff (R) (74)
DT. Darius Holland (70)
DT. Marcus Spriggs (R) (74)
DT. Mike Thompson (70)
LB. Rahim Abdullah (R) (74)
LB. Lenoy Jones (63)
LB. Kendell Ogle (R) (67/68)
CB. Daylon McCutcheon (R) (74/76)
S. Earl Little (79)
S. Ray Jackson (74)
S. Marquis Smith (R) (70)
S. Marlon Forbes (63/64)
S. Tim McTyer (64/67)

SPECIAL TEAMS
K. Phil Dawson (78)
P. Chris Gardocki (79)

[SKA]

Re: The Donovan McNabb Experiment - A Cleveland Browns Dynasty (1999)

Seattle Seahawks (0-0) at the Cleveland Browns (0-0)

The Cleveland Browns faced a very difficult challenge as the season was to begin. They were to start a rookie quarterback in Donovan McNabb, in the first ever Browns game in Cleveland, OH since the team's Week 15 victory against the Cincinnati Bengals on December 17th, 1995. The team had been forced to build through an Expansion Draft, and certainly didn't have any real valuable pieces besides a handful of players. Coach Chris Palmer had yet to head coach a regular season game, and quite frankly, was probably as nervous as any one of his players come Week 1.

But they were to prepare for a tough Seattle Seahawks team, which was led at the helm by quarterback Jon Kitna, now entering his first season as well as the Seahawks starter from Week 1 and on. Luckily for Kitna, he is surrounded with weapons such as Ricky Watters at the halfback position, as well as wide receivers Joey Galloway and Sean Dawkins. Even more impressive is the team's defense and its frontline, featuring the likes of Mike Sinclair, Cortez Kennedy, Sam Adams, and Phillip Daniels. While their linebacking core appears to be its weakest part, it also features the team's defensive captain, 29-year old linebacker Chad Brown, while the team also sports an impressive backdrop with Jay Bellamy and Merton Hanks at the safety positions.

Cleveland certainly earned the game as remarkable underdogs, but the atmosphere was second-to-none. Before and after the first kickoff, the fans were lively and joyous, their beloved Browns were finally back in front of thousands and thousands of dedicated and loving fans. The wounds would officially begin to heal today, and a new era could officially begin.

But not unexpectedly, the Browns defense got off to a terrible start, giving up five straight passes to start the day off, leading to a six-yard touchdown toss to Dawkins. As for the Browns, the offense's first step would result in a 5-yard dump pass to running back Terry Kirby, receiving perhaps the loudest cheers a first-down screen pass well ever receive. Kirby would proceed to run for another first down, but the Browns would lose possession on their next set of downs. The Seahawks would then go on to close out the first quarter with another quick touchdown pass, this time from 4-yards out to Seattle running back Ricky Watters.

Quickly down 14-0, McNabb would officially get his name in Cleveland Browns' record books recording the team's first touchdown and pass touchdown since their second inception, with a 7-yard driller to the team's tight end, Irv Smith. But in typical Browns fashion, the team's punter and back-up kicker Chris Gardocki would bust the team's extra point attempt, putting the line at 14-6 SEA.

But even quicker, the team's and fans celebrations would be cut short by Seattle kick returner Charlie Rogers who would return Gardocki's boot all the way to the Cleveland 35-yard line. A few plays later, they were back in the end zone again, with another touchdown pass from Kitna to Dawkins. For Cleveland fans, it was good to see the offense respond well to a quick and heart-wrenching touchdown. A solid mix of run and pass plays to keep the defense on their toes would allow the Browns to drive a whole 80-yards for another touchdown pass from McNabb, this time to receiver Leslie Shepherd from 7-yards out. now at 21-13 SEA, the Browns would head into the second quarter with a successful defensive stop and some momentum going their way.

It wouldn't take long for things to get out of hand, seriously, just one play. A pass from McNabb would get tipped at the line and scooped up by defensive end Mike Sinclair, giving the Seahawks excellent field position and unexpectedly offensive possession to pretty much start off the second half. They would fully capitalize, as Ricky Watters would put in his first rushing TD of the year from 5-yards deep. A few series' later, right as the fourth quarter began, the Seahawks would tack on another three points with a field goal from 26-yards. The Browns would come back with a score of their own, however, with a six-minute drive completed with McNabb's third TD pass, this time to fellow rookie, receiver Kevin Johnson. In an act of guts and desperation, coach Palmer would call for the two-point conversion, and would successfully score with a fading catch by Leslie Shepherd. At 31-21, the Browns were only down a touchdown and a field goal with under ten minutes left, however, the next Seattle possession would both eat the clock and result in the final score of the game, Kitna's fourth touchdown pass on the day. The Browns would proceed to run out of time as the ball was nearly pushed into the end zone.

QUOTES OF THE GAME

"I mean we had a lot of bad spots, we also showed a lot of good ones too. I mean McNabb looked confident, you know, head up, head in the game ... Donovan seemed on line with our guys [receivers] all game, so I'm looking forward to his progression with our receivers ... Terry Kirby showed signs of versatility ... but again, our defense was out of form and Kitna had the upper-hand on our guys all night. I mean they have a potent offense, and they gave our guys some trouble. But you know we push 'em back out there and fix the mistakes. We have a fresh team of guys who can only get better..." - Head Coach of the Browns, Chris Palmer

"Oh yeah, I felt real comfortable out there. You know, I've been doin' this thing for awhile so I tried to treat it like any other game, but yeah, I definitely had the shakes goin' in to it, you know? How can't ya at some point. But with that first touchdown, yeah, I could just settle in real nice, no problem." - Rookie quarterback of the Browns, Donovan McNabb

"Well I thought he [McNabb] looked real good. He's got such a great [physical] build, he's got a real variety of ways to beat you. We tried not to let him scramble too much today, but when he snuck out you could tell he could do some real damage..." - Head Coach of the Seahawks, Mike Holmgren

...

[Jemmie]

Re: The Donovan McNabb Experiment - A Cleveland Browns Dynasty (1999)

Very cool.. Do we know where Couch ended up!?

[SKA]

Re: The Donovan McNabb Experiment - A Cleveland Browns Dynasty (1999)

Very cool.. Do we know where Couch ended up!?

Tim Couch went #2 overall to the Philadelphia Eagles...

Every four weeks I will do updates on both Couch and Akili Smith, in comparision to McNabb's success or failure in Cleveland.

[SKA]

Re: The Donovan McNabb Experiment - A Cleveland Browns Dynasty (1999)

Cleveland Browns (0-1) at the Pittsburgh Steelers (0-1)

For the first time since November 26th, 1995, the Cleveland Browns and Pittsburgh Steelers were back on the field with one another, reviving a modern-day classic football rivalry between two organizations and cities with bad blood between one another, excited to kick start another year of Browns/Steelers football. But too many as well, they knew they would be witnessing the restart of a rivalry dating back to an original Browns victory, 30-17 on October 7th, 1950.

49 years later, the Browns were back in Pittsburgh, and their presence would be felt. The Steelers came into the game with one of the best running backs in the game, the 27-year old Jerome Bettis entering his fifth season in the NFL and fourth with the Steelers (it's always forgotten Bettis actually played his rookie season with the St. Louis Rams). Leading the huddle is quarterback Kordell Stewart, who was just a rookie in 1995, but was now on the opposite end of the spectrum when it came to Browns rookie quarterback Donovan McNabb. The Eagles sport an impressive left side of the offensive line, but their receiving core is only sub-par led by Courtney Hawkins and Bobby Shaw. Defensively the Steelers would enter the game with one of the best linebacking cores in the game, led by both Joey Porter and Jason Gildon, as well as Mike Vrabel and Levon Kirkland. Unfortunately, for the Steelers, they would have to open their first home game of the '99 season with a loss already suffered in the season opener in Jacksonville, losing to Mark Brunell's Jaguars, 14-0.

The Steelers certainly wouldn't have an easier time with the Browns, getting held to a three-and-out their first time up, while proceeding to give up an 8-yard TD pass from McNabb to fellow rookie Kevin Johnson after a long 8-minute drive to cough up most of the first quarter. But they would almost fit time in to score once more, as Steelers quarterback Kordell Stewart would throw a deadly interception to the way of cornerback Ryan McNeil, who provided his rookie QB with field position inside of Pittsburgh territory. McNabb would continue to show signs of real consistency, successfully leading his team down the field once again, but would suffer a 7-yard sack at the hands of linebacker Jason Gildon, leading to a 10-yard pass to Johnson which would fall two-yards short of the first down. With that, the Browns would throw up a successful 32-yard field goal from Phil Dawson (his first game of the season), to take a 10-0 CLE lead.

Pittsburgh finally got some offense flowing in the beginning of the second quarter, but failures to convert on second-and-one as well as third-and-one, led to a field goal attempt which sliced just to the right from an easy 29-yards out. Luckily the team would hold the Browns to a three-and-out, and would drive down for another field goal attempt, this one from 39-yards out. And once again, kicker Tony Robinson would muff it, and Steelers fans knew they would be in for a long, hard day of watching their team.

Next series saw a first-down run from Terry Kirby go 32-yards, eventually setting up another big first-down play, this one going for a touchdown as McNabb would make contact with Leslie Shepherd in stride on the sideline, putting Cleveland up 17-0 CLE. Clearly the Cleveland bench was fired up, as the defense would come up to bat next, and would hold the Steelers to an immediate three-and-out. And right then and there more hearts would break at Three Rivers Stadium, as punt returner David Dunn of the Cleveland Browns would run a complete 74-yards to put his team up in surprising fashion, now at an unexpected 24-0 CLE.

The teams headed into halftime with two completely different mentalities. For Cleveland, everything was going on way, their quarterback was on point, the running game was very effective, receivers were making their catches, and even special teams had contributed some points. For Pittsburgh, everything had gone wrong, and they found themselves down now by four scores. A very, very, tough mountain to climb.

The third quarter didn't see much improvement, although the Steelers would get some points on the board. The Browns would actually score first, with a 42-yard field goal from kicker Phil Dawson, straight off their first set of possession. But finally, Stewart would get himself a touchdown pass, this time with a 45-yarder to receiver Courtney Hawkins, all thanks to a quick trip, and slip of the foot by cornerback Antonio Langham giving Hawkins wide-open position.

But a lot of work was still to be done. For the Browns, their offense kinda stalled for a bit, including a failed 37-yard shot from kicker Dawson. That would end the first possession of the fourth quarter, giving the Steelers an important chance to respond. But not surprisingly, they would fail to do so with another missed field goal, this time from 38-yards out. The fourth quarter would end up as the least entertaining of them all, with the Browns proceeding to punt after killing some clock, and the Steelers would fail to manage another score before the clock was out.

QUOTES OF THE GAME

"Things just went well for us today, not much else too it I'd say. We executed our game plan, came out strong, we tried to get Donovan going before Kordell could get on the board, and that worked out really well since our defense really improved themselves compared to last game ... They knew how I felt after last game, I wasn't too pleased with 'em givin' up 38 points, and you know what, they showed me a little somethin' today. But you know, we'll go through the game like any other and pick out the mistakes and failures that go along with a win on the road ... you know, use that to get these guys through the next one at home." - Head Coach of the Browns, Chris Palmer

"Yeah, hahaha, it's a little intimidating lining up against that Steelers' defense, not just with what they got now but with the history surrounding it all. Really an incredible experience if you're askin' me, I was just breathin' in the moment and just tried to have fun out there. You know, me and Kordell have been in touch ever since things were leading into the NFL Draft, and we got a lot of similarities in how we play and who we are and where we've come from, so he's been a lot of help since transitioning into the league. But hey, tonight, you know, everything was clickin', and our defense was playing great. We're just tryin' to play winning football." - Rookie quarterback of the Browns, Donovan McNabb

...

[SKA]

Re: The Donovan McNabb Experiment - A Cleveland Browns Dynasty (1999)

Detroit Lions (1-1) at the Cleveland Browns (1-1)

Week 3 would see the Cleveland Browns take on another old-time opponent, the next-door neighboring Detroit Lions. Cleveland media would see this is a great opportunity for the Browns to tack on another win, while the Detroit Lions had a different story planned out. But first, let's get to a little scouting report on this Lions team.

At quarterback is Gus Frerotte, playing in his third game as Detroit's starter having played in Washington for five years prior. Week 1 saw the Lions suffer a tough outcome against the Green Bay Packers, losing a toughly contested game 17-14 in Green Bay. The next week however, the team bounced back dandily, taking down a superstar cored Dallas Cowboys team (seemingly on their last legs), with an impressive 31-22 come from behind victory in Detroit. Their running back Greg Hill has played well these past two games, while Frerotte himself has played relatively mediocre thanks to a subpar receiving core. Although he has quite amount of talent in Herman Moore (who has had a poor start to the year), the rest of his options aren't too impressive with Johnnie Morton, Germane Crowell, and Brian Stablein on point. The Lions defensive line, however, is a completely different story. They're built for complete domination, led be defensive end Robert Porscher, alongside blossoming 26-year old Luther Ellis, and Pro Bowl caliber veterans James Jones and Tracy Scroggins. Back deep is another great athlete and safety, Mark Carrier alongside Ron Rice.

But quickly back to the game...Gus Frerotte would finally have himself a dandy time, finishing with 212 yards and going 20/32 on the day. But the tough Cleveland crowd would get to him to start things off, as the Lions would go three-and-out in the first series. One, however, could question if the end result was as good as it seemed, as rookie linebacker Wali Rainer left the game for good with an injury. That seemed to be the theme of the night for the Browns, who would suffer six injuries throughout the game with six different players. The second would come during the first play of Cleveland's first series. Starting center Dave Wohlabaugh would get a major charlie horse and suffer thigh bruises forcing him to leave the game as well. The Browns would chug on, however, as Terry Kirby produced a highlight 35-yard touchdown run on a sweep to the left, catching the Lions defense off guard and providing for an impressive run.

Next up the Lions couldn't get anything going again, even though they would drive down the field a good bit. The Browns would go three-and-out the following series, but would quickly seize another chance after a Frerotte pass was picked off by safety Corey Fuller. Unfortunately, Cleveland could only milk the possession for a field goal starting the second quarter off with a 10-0 lead. That wouldn't hold up for long, as the Lions would respond with a nice drive down most of the field finishing off with a 1-yard TD rush from Greg Hill. Following another three-and-out from Cleveland, the Lions would produce a field goal to tie things up, but it would create more buzz than usual, as Browns cornerback Ryan McNeil left the field for another quarter with an arm injury. But that wouldn't be it for the quarter, as the bad luck continued for Cleveland when tackle Orlando Brown had to leave the game with an injury of his own, with less than a minute in the half.

Tied 10-10 entering the second half the Browns were kicking themselves and cursing lady luck, as they hadn't seized their chances to hold on to the lead and prevent the Lions offense from starting to roll. Things didn't look too bad as the Browns would get a field goal off their first series of the third quarter, but would quickly give up another tying field goal after a hard-hitting run stop on 3rd and 3 at the CLE 22. Cleveland would go on to blow another opportunity, this time with a field goal chipped hard left from 43-deep, while the Lions would respond to start the fourth quarter with a great punt return from Lions receiver Iheanyi Uwaezuoke, putting the Lions up by seven points in a flash.

Donovan McNabb just couldn't get things going late in the game, failing to connect on too many passes, resulting in another field goal for Cleveland, putting them down by four. And even though they were able to get the much-needed defensive stop, they would fail to produce a touchdown on their last possession, while the defense would give up one last touchdown with 0:49 left on the clock with a second touchdown run from Greg Hill.

At the end of the day, Browns fans went home sulking with a second loss on their first year back, and in poor fashion. The team was able to get going early, but adjustments on Detroit's defensive side were too hard to beat for Cleveland's offensive coordinator and its rookie quarterback, Donovan McNabb.

QUOTES OF THE GAME

"It just didn't click today, dat's it. I ain't worried 'bout it man ... I just gotta keep workin' man, you know, a bad game isn't the death of 'ya. Heads up baby, heads up ..." - Rookie wide receiver of the Browns, Kevin Johnson

"I know it ain't college anymore man, you think I don't get that? [in response to reporter's question] You're gonna have bad games in the NFL, and it's not always on you. It's always on a team. One man doesn't lose a football game, and if he did, his team didn't do enough to win anyways. I ain't used to losin' like this but that's life in the NFL." - Rookie quarterback of the Browns, Donovan McNabb

...

[jct32]

Re: The Donovan McNabb Experiment - A Cleveland Browns Dynasty (1999)

Maybe I missed this. What game is this? Also, your boxscore looks terrific where did that come from?

[SKA]

Re: The Donovan McNabb Experiment - A Cleveland Browns Dynasty (1999)



Browns Make First Trade of Season, Acquire Right Guard
Sometime between Weeks 3 and 4 ...

The Cleveland Browns made their first team-to-team transaction of the 1999 season with a two player trade involving the team's 2000 NFL Draft 5th Round Pick. The Browns have apparently made the move to re-buff the team's offensive line, in efforts not only to protect rookie quarterback Donovan McNabb better, but also to help the right-side of the rush game where the team has a weaker spot.

As the season began, the coaching staff seemed satisfied sending rookie right guard, Steve Zahursky, in as the games starter at right guard the first three games of the season. In those three games, the rookie has averaged a poor 2.62 yards per rush average, with an even worse 3.75 sacks allowed average, clearly providing his team more of a liability than a benefit. Considering Zahursky was the team's go-to guy for the right guard spot since the start of the season, there's as some expectation of them going to the bench, but instead the resurrected franchise and it's front office decided to hit the open market and shop for a replacement. Negotiations purportedly took place with the Washington club, as well as the Miami Dolphis and New York Giants, but were happy with a trade involving the Green Bay Packers.

The team's new starting right guard, Jon Andruzzi, made his arrival early this morning, and went through formalities for joining the team, as well as participated in a press conference alongside Browns Head Coach, Chris Palmer, and team president Carmen Policy. Nothing of real noteworthy dictation happened during the press conference, as the team just reaffirmed it's direction in building a solid offensive line for their number one overall pick behind center. Andruzzi was a perfect choice considering his young age of 24 (replacing a 22-year old Zahursky), his great start to the season in Green Bay, and his work done last year (his rookie season). Although he admitted he was prepared to really settle into Green Bay, he just hopes he can quickly get to that here in Cleveland, a city he likens to the Green Bay town, with his cold-hearted weather but absolutely loyal fan base. Andruzzi mentioned his excitement to be a part of rebuilding such a historic franchise in football, and to be a real part of that process in the forthcoming years.

The question was asked about Andruzzi's contract situation, as his $782,000 contract is due to expire at the end of the season. Team President Carmen Policy make sure to affirm the choice of re-signing Andruzzi's when that time comes around, but isn't too worried about that situation at the present time. There shouldn't be hesitation from the team to due so, although time will tell when it comes to how much Andruzzi and his agent will demand from the Cleveland club. In the mean time, the team says goodbye to their rookie of a short-time, Steve Zahursky, and his $182,000 contract, while also throwing the Packers the team's upcoming 5th Round Pick to close the deal. Andruzzi brings to the team a 2.13 yards per rush average, while having allowed no sacks in the first three games of 1999 with Green Bay.

Zahursky have been unable to be reached for a statement, while his press conference with the Packers is set for tomorrow at 12:30 pm.

[SKA]

Re: The Donovan McNabb Experiment - A Cleveland Browns Dynasty (1999)

Maybe I missed this. What game is this? Also, your boxscore looks terrific where did that come from?

This is being played out in Football Mogul 2012. Check out it's website for a free download (probably for a short time). SportsMogul creates the best box-scores and recaps you just open in your browser, and with little time spent in Photoshop ... wah-lah!

[SKA]

Re: The Donovan McNabb Experiment - A Cleveland Browns Dynasty (1999)

Cleveland Browns (1-2) at the Jacksonville Jaguars (2-1)

The Cleveland Browns faced a tough battle as they headed into Jacksonville, the NFL's previously newest team having joined the league in '95, the last year the Cleveland Browns were in town before vanishing to Baltimore. The Jaguars were 2-1 heading into the home contest, behind quarterback Mark Brunell and running powerhouse Fred Taylor. Now the team had a serious receiving core, with Jimmy Smith and Keenan McCardell, as well as a formidable defense led by linebacker Bryce Paup, defensive end Tony Brackins, and safety Carnell Lake.

This time 'round, the Browns had to respond to a poor performance at home against the Detroit Lions, as the season starting rolling into motion and routine. But things were out of whack from the start as the Jaguars returned the kick-off all the way to the CLE 36 yard-line. This gave the defense a tough challenge from the get go, but they were able to step up for the three-and-out, minimizing as much damage as they could, having to settle with the easy field goal.

Things would get even worse for Cleveland, as Donovan McNabb's first pass would result in an interception. His frustration was quite apparent as he stormed off the field in disbelief. The ball would be tipped as it zipped out the pocket, vollyed twice in the air, and somehow snatched up by defensive end Tony Brackins. So once again, the Jaguars were in great field position, but just couldn't reach the end zone, and would have to choose a field goal to go up a quick six points.

The rest of the first quarter saw the Browns finally get some flow to their game, with a good series from McNabb featuring consistent completions, complemented by a running game securing the first or final yards in a general set of downs. Unfortunately, McNabb and his army couldn't push back the JAX 13 yard-line, and were forced to settle for a field goal of their own.

The next offensive possessions for both teams would result in punts, while the Jaguars would come back second time 'round mid-way through the second quarter for the first touchdown of the afternoon. The team would once again have decent field position, and this time had the upper-hand on the Browns defense, as several passes from Brunell to his main weapon Jimmy Smith, would really hurt Cleveland's chances, especially with a 30-yard dagger setting up the 3-yard TD pass to running back Fred Taylor.

Now up a touchdown, it was important for McNabb to respond appropriately, and nothing was more appropriate than a touchdown of his own. The Browns were able to speed down the field with great pass plays of their own, with everyone going to McNabb's number one guy, Leslie Shepherd. The two would hook up seven times during the possession, resulting in a 12-yard touchdown pass to fire up both the players and coaches. McNabb was quick to reach Shepherd after he landed the ball in the end zone, as the two slapped helmets, certainly pleased with their burning chemistry at the moment.

With one more failed go-around per team, the game was at 13-10, advantage: home team.

The second half saw an immediate loss of control, beginning the third with a three-and-out, and proceeding to give up another Jacksonville touchdown pass, this time from Brunell to McCardell, from 11-yard out. But that wasn't all too bad, until less than thirty-seconds later, McNabb would throw another interception on first down, this time a toss snagged by safety Carnell Lake, who would dodge a tackle or two before leaping into the end zone with a feeling of enlightenment. In the span of one-minute, the Browns were now down 17 points, with a quarter and a half to go.

Donovan seemed to keep his head high, and marched down field for another score, thanks to two big passes. The first was a 27-yard connection with fellow rookie Kevin Johnson, which was immediately followed by a touchdown pass from 29-out, once again to Shepherd. Unfortunately, the defense wouldn't hold up their end of the bargain, allowing the Jags to seemingly do as they please, taking another touchdown of their own at the start of the third with an eight-yard run from back-up James Stewart.

Another rally was in the works from the Browns, thanks to a kick-off return putting them on the JAX 44 yard-line. McNabb was then able to get his offense on the JAX 10-yard line, but would fail in four attempts to get into the end-zone, with a fourth-and-16 situation at hand following an impressive six-yard sack from Tony Brackins.

Welcome to the NFL, McNabb ...

The end of the game would actually see another score from the Browns, but an unimportant one at that. McNabb was able to find tight end Irv Smith, who pounded his way for the 15-yard TD as the clock ran out ... but Jacksonville fans were already celebrating, a long time ago ...

...



...

HEY! WHAT ABOUT THAT OTHER GUY?

In Philadelphia, the number two overall pick is facing a much different, and perhaps tougher reality. The Eagles haven't the confidence to put Tim Couch in as their starter, for now ... Four games into the season, Couch has only two completions on two attempts, including one touchdown, for a total of 57 yards. In the meantime, the Eagles have enjoyed below par success behind quarterback Koy Detmer, enjoying the starting quarterback position in only his second year in the NFL, while he was featured in only eight games in his rookie year. Behind Detmer, the Eagles are only 1-3 on the year, while Detmer has only thrown for 623 yards, with absolutely zero touchdowns, but six interceptions to show for it.

Certainly the media, especially the locals in Philly, have been feigning for a new era to begin in Philadelphia, and most feel Koy Detmer is not the man to trigger that start. The calls are already coming for Couch ... How long until rookie head coach Andy Reid gives in?

WAIT! WASN'T THERE ANOTHER GUY?

Why yes! There was a third member to this story! His name is Akili Smith, otherwise known as the Cincinnati Bengals third overall pick ... and their back-up quarterback ...

So far Smith has seen a bit more action than his counterpart Couch, having thrown 27 regular season passes, but has only completed 10 so far ... He has also collected only 87 passing yards, along with no touchdowns and two interceptions ... Meanwhile, Cincinnati has enjoyed a 2-2 run so far behind starter Jeff Blake, who doesn't seem to be giving up his starting role any time soon. So far Blake has completed 64% of his passes, 746 yards, 6 TD's, and 1 interception ...

It's only been four weeks into the season, but have the Browns made the right choice thus far? You be the judge.

...

[SKA]

Re: The Donovan McNabb Experiment - A Cleveland Browns Dynasty (1999)

San Diego Chargers (3-0) at the Cleveland Browns (1-3)

Ah, another season of Cleveland Browns football, another season of disappointment.

That's something my family used to say a lot, and this game, as a prime example of it. Picture it now, a Week 5 game against a solid San Diego Chargers team, led by Erik Kramer trying to legitimize himself in the NFL, alongside halfback Natrone Means, backed up behind a defense with a legitimate linebacking core, featuring the head of class Junior Seau, as well as Eric Hill, as well as defensive linemen Chris Mims, Norman Hand, and Raylee Johnson. Imagine an intimidating Chargers team, trying to prove themselves in a hotly contested AFC West, with many so-called experts calling their 3-0 start to the season, nothing but a fluke. They were luck with a bye week coming in week three. They had a lot of rest.

Perhaps this is what the Chargers were thinking to themselves all along ...

After the game started with a San Diego three-and-out, Cleveland slowly built some confidence with a big 50-yard field goal from Phil Dawson, hopefully instilling some confidence in the rookie kicker (yes, Dawson's a ****ing rookie in this franchise diary!) Another forced turnover-on-downs would result in another Cleveland score, this time a fully fledged touchdown thanks to a 1-yard banger by Terry Kirby, who truly deserved the TD after putting in the hard work on a drive that jumped ahead with a 40-yard play action pass from McNabb to Leslie Shepherd. Now up two possessions, the Cleveland crowd started to get a little groovy ... another good start let's see what else is going on ...

Well the Chargers offense would continue to stall, just barely unable to enter field goal territory. The Browns on the other hand ... well ... their offense would play similar to the Chargers this time, but everything changed next possession, as linebacker James Williams was able to pick off Kramer and return the interception all the way 64-yards for another touchdown, giving the Browns a 17-point lead ... and a party was pretty much underway ...

Unfortunately, the Browns players themselves started to get way to comfortable themselves, and would end up giving up a vital touchdown pass from 2-yards out with only 0:28 left on the clock. The Chargers were able to secure themselves hope heading into half time, as the fans in Municipal Stadium still had no idea what was coming.

That's what's so sad about a victim's story. Really. Usually they just don't see it coming. Especially this time, when Cleveland came out as strong as before, securing another touchdown with a 7-yard rush from Kirby, all thanks to a nice 17-yard completion the play before from McNabb to Shepherd. Now up 7-24 CLE, the Browns continued their relaxed style of play, as Palmer perhaps began coaching not to lose the game. And we all know how that story goes ...

The rest of the third quarter was uneventful, but things all changed with ten minutes left. After a five-minute plus drive from the Chargers, another touchdown was put on the board, thanks to an 11-yard zinger to Jeff Graham, putting San Diego only down by ten. Ten points, ten minutes? Could it really be that hard?

Depends on who you're asking ... Things were looking sketchy after the Browns went for a three-and-out right after, giving the Chargers as much time as they needed to work the clock and field, playing chess all the way down field for another ****ing touchdown! ****! You can't be serious! They said ...

Quite frankly, quarterback Erik Kramer was just on fire. He had just completed seven straight passes, including the touchdown, and was really feeling it. The rally was on. Now it was just a matter of time ...

How did Donovan McNabb respond? Things looked promising with a good play action to go 22-yards. But with two incomplete passes and a measly 3-yard rush, the team was forced to punt, and the Chargers were saddling the horse ... Their leader? Erik ****ing Kramer. Forget about the 15-yards roughing the passer call mid-way through the drive, even though it really got Cleveland Brown Stadium on fire. Kramer would continue his incredible finish, throwing another eight completions, with only one tipped miss, finishing things off with a 5-yard touchdown toss to second receiver Chris Penn!

But he didn't finish the game there. Cleveland was put in two-minute drill mode, with only 1:40 left in the game, down now, 27-24 SD. Four straight completions from McNabb gave the city some hope, but with three straight incompletions to follow that, the fans would have to grumble and settle with a 29-yard field goal to tie things up.

Honestly though, that could be any game for the Browns, on any day. But this game had a little something extra to it.

One hell of an overtime.

In what could have been the story of the game, head coach Chris Palmer really went out of his style, and took a major risk. Opting for a surprise onside kick to start the extra time. It's not a popular call, and certainly not one Palmer would make, but afterwards it was revealed to be the special teams coach's call, who had complete confidence in his guys, but executed poorly. Obviously, this gave San Diego incredible field position to start things off, needing only a field goal to win it, but destiny had other plans, as the second play of their drive featured an incredible interception by cornerback Antonio Langham.

The crowd and team went absolutely ballistic. Not only was Palmer bailed out of such a stupid call, but now the Browns were in near perfect position to lock things up. Things were handed off to Terry Kirby who would run things six times in order to set up the 42-yard game winner. Having already hit a 50-yarder, as well as a 29-yarder way early, you'd think rookie Phil Dawson would have it in the bag. Really, you would. I mean, he's only a rookie, but he's been kicking 42-yarders for years. Over and over and over again.

Not this time. To everyone's amazement, Dawson would barely crease the outside of the right pool, as he stood in disbelief.

But a team has to back-up a kicker when he's down, and Cleveland's defense did just that. They somehow held the Chargers to a three-and-out, setting up the Browns for another great chance to take this one for good.

But the Chargers were determined to prove everyone wrong ... right?

I mean, they're overrated ... right? Look at 'em now, they could have easily settled with a blow-out loss on the road to a Cleveland team looking to make something of themselves ... right?

But maybe they knew what perception held, and was determine to change things ...

Or maybe it's just damn luck.

Whatever it is, something was certainly having it's way that afternoon, as a simple third-and-four play would see defensive end Chris Mims, by the grace of god, somehow, literally pick the ball out of the air, falling straight to the floor to give his team vital possession. Now in Cleveland territory, the Chargers used two play to get themselves in range for the 34-yard field goal, game winner, bada bing bada boom.

**** that.

QUOTES OF THE GAME

"Now I ain't never been a man for excuses, so that's that. I'm not gonna give you and come up with some stupid excuse for why we lost. We just didn't finish. That's that. We got too high on ourselves, forgetting we're coming into this game with only one win, and were ready to take our paycheck by the third quarter. But you know, San Diego had some *** **** balls out there, that's something I'll really take away from this one. I'm not saying we gave up, but the Chargers made sure they didn't, and sometimes the heart of a player pervails ..." - Rookie quarterback of the Browns, Donovan McNabb

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[SKA]

Re: The Donovan McNabb Experiment - A Cleveland Browns Dynasty (1999)

Cleveland Browns (1-4) at the Cincinnati Bengals (3-2)

Another classic rivalry was re-birthed come Week 6, as the Cleveland Browns headed down state to the river-city of Cincinnati to do battle with a 3-2 Cincinnati team. While the Bengals soon followed the Browns at pick number three, selecting another high profiled college quarterback, Akili Smith, they honestly have a great quarterback already behind center, with Jeff Blake, backed up by running back Corey Dillon as well as receivers Darnay Scott, Carl Pickens, and Willie Jackson. Defensively, however the Bengals are much weaker, with the only real notable name coming from linebacker Brian Simmons.

Both teams would actually start off with punts, while the Browns would come back their second time to put seven points on the board, thanks to a 2-yard stamp from Terry Kirby. Unfortunately, the Browns would already suffer some bad, bad luck, losing their newest acquisition, right guard Joe Andruzzi mid-way through the drive due to injury.

The very next drive, the Browns would suffer a defensive injury, but this one coming after a great play by defensive end John Thierry to catch a tipped ball for an interception. However, he short return would see rookie linebacker Wali Rainer forced to leave the game due to injury suffered on a hard hit during the confusion and attempted return. Thierry's hard work would go to waste however, as the Browns would get only one first-down before having to settle for a long, long 55-yard field goal attempt, which kicker Phil Dawson just couldn't complete.

That was unfortunate, considering the Bengals would go on to score early in the second quarter after a long drive all the way from their own 29-yard line, topped off with a 2-yard touchdown run of their own from fullback Clif Groce. And how would the Browns respond? Well with a nicely timed three-and-out, of course.

So once again Cincinnati had the ball, and were proceeding to move things down the field. They would suffer an even worse injury, however, as half-way down the field, running back Corey Dillon was forced to leave the game for good thanks to injury suffered while banging around the CLE 14-yard line. With that, the Bengals were forced to settle with a field goal, going up only three points. Now quarterback Jeff Blake would have to carry the heavy load, but so far this season Cleveland hasn't presented much of a problem as far as quarterbacks getting, hot hot hot, later in the game ...

Now Cleveland would make good work of getting their way down field, and were happy to get a field goal of their own to tie things up. Expect ... that didn't happen. Instead, Dawson's woes continued with another miss from only 35-yards out! Shaking their heads, the Browns would watch the first half expire in time, having missed out on a great opportunity to put this bad boy back to even.

But hey, you know, another half of football, a lot of time for quarterback Donovan McNabb to work some magic, you know, put some points up, settle down a bit more, no big deal right? Well he was already go out, on the field, but not so quickly in the third. Cleveland's special teams continued in their breakdowns, this time giving up the second half's opening kickoff to a touchdown return, all performed by the agile cornerback, Tremain Mack.

Now it was 7-16 CIN, and the Browns would come back with one decent 15-yard run from Kirby, and no other movement on four other tries. With that, another punt was in the air, and Bengals QB Jeff Blake began to lock-in with real solid throws, completing four strong passes on their next drive, while back-up running back Ki-Jana Carter would punch in a 5-yard touchdown to put his team up 7-23 CIN. But things really stung during the Browns very next possession, as the second play would result in an interception by linebacker Steve Foley, who would also return the ball to the end zone to put Cincinnati up by a very large margin of 23-points.

You can give Donovan McNabb a certain amount of credit however, as he would throw a touchdown pass once the Browns got the ball back. A play or two into the fourth quarter, he would throw a six-pointer to Kevin Johnson from 6-yards out, after completing a successful drive all the way down from the CLE 20-yard line.

And then, after a stop from the defense ... the Browns would do the same thing again, this time starting from their own 13-yard line. It would take three plays with only the goal to go, but McNabb would punch in another touchdown pass, this time finding second-string tight end Randy Palmer to make it a nine point game with six-and-a-half to go. With another defensive stop and score, it was gonna be a one possession game.

However, things would never go that route, as the Browns defense couldn't stop Cincinnati to help their offense have a real chance, giving up a drive taking up the rest of the quarter, resulting in a 24-yard field goal to put the Bengals up with little over a minute left, and giving them the 21-33 CIN result.

QUOTES OF THE GAME

"It's not just the opportunities we're not taking, but it's the opportunities we're not making. These guys know who we are, and I can see them preparing for every game, and we go in with confidence. Sometimes it doesn't work out, but when you're trying to fix it on the field, you have to fix it. That's how this game works. Today our adjustments just didn't have the full affect we wanted, and our game suffered as a result." - Head Coach of the Browns, Chris Palmer

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[SKA]

Re: The Donovan McNabb Experiment - A Cleveland Browns Dynasty (1999)

Baltimore Ravens (0-6) at the Cleveland Browns (1-5)

Talk about a game to remember. The new Cleveland Browns, led by new rookie quarterback, first overall pick Donovan McNabb, taking on the old Cleveland Browns ... the Baltimore Ravens ...

The Dawg Pound was as rowdy as it could have been, as the Ravens team spilled out to the field to a chorus of boos and jeers that woke up anybody accidentally sleeping through the start of the game. Baltimore entered the games with hopes their defense would really give McNabb some problems, led by a linebacking core with serious attitude, starring Peter Boulware and Ray Lewis, alongside perhaps the best safety in the game today, Rod Woodson. Their offense, however, is not as strong, with its best weapon being running back Priest Holmes, huddled around quarterback Scott Mitchell, entering his first season as Baltimore's starter. So far Mitchell is fourth in the AFC in passing yards, while Holmes fails to make the conference's top ten in rushing yards, with only 328 rushed for throughout all seven games thus far.

Cleveland fans and their team, certainly thought this one would be exciting, and was very winnable. Baltimore came in with no wins recorded, and six losses on the season. And things started off the right way with a Baltimore punt after receiving the opening kickoff. However, the Browns couldn't get anything going either, which led to the first score of the game, off a Ravens drive taking up the second half of the first quarter. The Ravens would get six with a Scott Mitchell 11-yarder to receiver Jermaine Lewis, but quickly they would continue to drop on the points, thanks to an interception by McNabb as the second quarter got under way. Linebacker Ray Lewis continues to shine as one of the best young defensemen in the league with a gasping interception to snatch the pigskin right through the middle of the field. McNabb's zip wasn't quick enough, while Lewis' hands have been as fast as ever. This would give the Ravens the field position necessary to take this one under real possession, starting on the CLE 38-yard line, going with a 29-yard route to tight end Aaron Pierce, and then punching in another touchdown with a third-straight try from Priest Holmes.

The Browns would respond poorly, with one completed play and then suffered from complete domination from the Ravens defense. Cleveland's defense, however, continued to give up intense yardage to get the defensive coordinator fuming. Soon enough, the Ravens tacked on a field goal to go up 17-0 BAL. But the bleeding looked to have stopped with Cleveland's first points of the game, coming off a highlight touchdown pass to receiver David Dunn, going for 39-yards to catch the Ravens defense off guard.

Unfortunately, the Ravens would sneak in one more touchdown before the end of the half, after a very impressive two-minute drill completed by Scott Mitchell, ending in a 3-yard touchdown dump to second-string tight end Lovett Purnell (his only catch of the game). The Ravens would leave only nine seconds on the board, but would have to give the ball back to Cleveland at the start of the second half.

The Browns seemed to get their act together, starting the third quarter off well with a kickoff return going to the CLE 46-yard line. A few plays later, the offense would get another big break as running back Terry Kirby continued to perform well this season, creating a 39-yard touchdown of his own going all the way home with a surprise sweep to the right side. Now down only ten, things didn't look so bad, but the defense needed to step things up ...

Not surprisingly, they really didn't. The Ravens didn't even flinch after that great run from Kirby, getting themselves another touchdown only a few minutes after, all thanks to an impressive return from Qadry Ismail starting their drive on the CLE 35-yard line. Holmes would get his second touchdown of the day, but Donovan McNabb seemed determined on his next drive to keep fighting. He would complete seven of his nine attempts throughout the middle of the third quarter, keeping things at he and his teams pace. Soon enough the team found themselves inside the BAL 10-yard line, but a slight misperception and poor decision led to another interception for McNabb, this one headed to Dunn near the sideline, picked off by corner Duane Starks who was pushed out of bounds as quickly as he snagged the pass.

With another turnover, hope continued to dim as the Ravens would score another touchdown on their next possession heading into the fourth quarter, which would be their final points of the game putting their box score at 38-deafening points. For Cleveland, they would finish with only 28, after the team secured two worthless touchdowns heading towards the end of the game. McNabb would throw them both to help out his quarterback rating on the day, but in the end all that matters is a win or a loss, and it was another one for the Browns, a toughie coming against the team which replaced theirs, and a heartbreaker for the loyal ones who were hoping to deliver the Ravens the pounding they'd like to give 'em themselves ...

QUOTES OF THE GAME

"Usually when you get some lucky breaks, you also give the other guys some lucky breaks, and when you combine that with playing against a team that's just better than you on the day, it usually ends up in a loss on the schedule. And yeah, I'm definitely disappointed with how this team's looking ... our defense hasn't been as stone cold as we hoped ... while the special teams is giving up the plays that build up in a loss on the day ... oddly enough the offense is looking better than we had expected, but it all needs to come together ..." - Head Coach of the Browns, Chris Palmer

"I mean yeah I'm getting pretty comfortable under the helmet and leading this team, there's also a bunch of guys who have gone out of their way to help me out and try to mature me into becoming the leader I know I will be for this team. And right now, I'm trying to improve myself just as much as I'm trying improve this team and its ability to win ... we got a few nixs to work out ... and in due time we'll bring winning football back to Cleveland ..." - Rookie quarterback of the Browns, Donovan McNabb

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[SKA]

Re: The Donovan McNabb Experiment - A Cleveland Browns Dynasty (1999)

MID-WAY THROUGH THE SEASON ... 1999 EDITION ...

Mid-way through the 1999 season, the newly resurrected Cleveland Browns have had their moments, but not enough to mark this season a real success so far, considering their record after Week 8, in which the Browns had their bye week on the season. A perfect week to give your players their deserved one week break, Cleveland's players and coaches have a chance to get their heads back together and prepare themselves for their final eight games on the year.

Cleveland enters Week 9 and the second half of the season with an AFC-worst record, 1-6. Although they would give up the first win for Baltimore, the Ravens were still in the gutter as well, but recorded their second-straight victory on the year in Week 8 with 20-23 BAL thriller against the Jacksonville Jaguars. As for the rest of the conference, both the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks find themselves on top, with records of 6-2 and 6-1 respectively. The Seahawks perhaps hold the more impressive record, with one less loss (thanks to a bye week of course), but also doing it in perhaps the toughest conference in football, the AFC West, where the last place team happens to be a very formidable Oakland Raiders team, with a record of 4-3 (a record leading the weaker AFC Central division).

Over on the other side, the Carolina Panthers have surprised all of football with their incredible start to the season. With a record of 6-2 (tied for first in the NFC West with St. Louis, the defending Super Bowl champs), the Panthers have been on a five game winning streak, while their only two losses on the year both came due to overtime field goals from the opposing team in Weeks 2 & 3. The Rams, however, are right there with 'em, with a very potent offense as well as statistically the best defense so far in the NFC. Most experts have the Dallas Cowboys taking the conference though, with statistically the most efficient offense so far through the season, and the experience to help propel the Dallas squad to another shot at a title ring.

In Miami, future Hall of Famer Dan Marino continues to prove why he's one of the very best to ever play the game, leading the NFL in passing yards so far at 2,211, all while in his seventeenth season as a professional football player. Right behind him is defending Super Bowl champion Kurt Warner at 2,175; Green Bay quarterback Brett Favre at 2,127; and perhaps the biggest surprise at the quarterback position all year being the performance thus far by Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Elvis Grbac, who has already surpassed his career high in passing yards at 2,104. Rounding out the number five spot, is Baltimore quarterback Scott Mitchell at 2,076 yards.

Cleveland rookie quarterback Donovan McNabb is fifth in the AFC conference in passing yards with an impressive 1,865 yards, considering the lack of his team's success. Ironically, Terry Kirby ranks fifth in total rushing yards in the AFC so far this season, at 535 yards (ninth in the league), while Terrell Davis is blowing away any and all competition at 827 yards already ran for. Behind him ranks a key to much of Carolina's success, 25-year old Tim Biakabutuka with 780 yards of his own. On the receiving end, Kansas City's Derrick Alexander leads the league with 780 total yards; while Edgar Bennett of Chicago and Donald Driver of Green Bay lead the NFL in receiving touchdowns at 7 in total (Cleveland's Leslie Shepherd comes in tied for third with six others at 5 touchdowns so far on the season.)

The Browns themselves have perhaps been statistically over performing on the offensive side. As previously mentioned, McNabb is off to a great start to the year, despite only one win under his belt. With a mediocre receiving core, he has managed 1,865 passing yards with 13 touchdowns and 8 interceptions. He's averaging a QB rating of 90.5, but is on the lower tier of completion percentage at 63.2%. Receptions wise, his main target so-far appears to be fellow rookie, Kevin Johnson, who has 42 receptions for 501 yards and 3 touchdowns. Leslie Shepherd is looking in form this season, with 36 receptions for 538 yards and 5 touchdowns, while third receiver David Dunn is at 18 receptions for 236 yards and only 1 touchdown. Tight end Irv Smith has been consistent, with 30 receptions for 361 yards and 3 touchdowns of his own, while running back Terry Kirby has 20 receptions, most coming out the backfield, for 151 yards.

Rushing wise, Kirby, as aforementioned, has been better than expected. He finds himself on the upper tier of runners so far this season, with a solid 535 yards collected on the ground, with 5 touchdowns, 2 fumbles, and a 4.08 yards per carry. His offensive line has clearly done an effective job when it comes to run blocking for Kirby, with both tackles Lomas Brown and Orlando Brown having impressive yards per rush averages thus far, at 4.92 and 5.07, respectively. The team's move to acquire Joe Andruzzi from the Green Bay Packers has turned out good so far. In four games, Andruzzi has a 3.77 yards per rush average, as opposed to 2.13 with the Packers. Unfortunately he's already at 1.25 sacks allowed, but the two starting linemen left to mention have allowed much more ... Jim Pyne, the team's starting left guard thus far is at 3.60 yards per rush, but leads the team in sacks allowed at 3.50. Starting center Dave Wohlabaugh has the least impressive numbers, at 2.08 yards per rush and 2.00 sacks allowed, but there doesn't seem to be much call for a scapegoat just yet.

On the defensive side, linebacker Jamir Miller has the most tackles thus far at 55, while the team's two safeties are in second and third in tackles. Corey Fuller finds himself with 47 tackles heading into the team's Week 8 bye week, while Marquez Pope is right behind with 45. Disappointingly, the team hasn't generated many turnovers, with no one man leading the team with more than one interception on the year, while Pope himself has none to mark up for 1999 so far.

While there isn't much complaining about the safeties, the team's secondary has come under criticism, but certainly not as much as the team's defensive line. Defensive end John Thierry leads his line with only 31 tackles and only 2.0 sacks. The most frightening stat may be that for defensive tackle Hurvin McCormack, who in seven starts only has ... one measly tackle. While there are a few with the same situation or no tackles at all in the rest of the league, a defense with a seriously inconsistent defensive line is one that stands no chance at winning any sort of championship.

Moves are expected to be made on the defensive side of the ball, where Cleveland has the highest average of points scored against them: 29.6. The second-worst comes out of Washington, where the Redskins are at 25.9 points allowed against them per game, but even that is a full 3.7 points less than the Browns allow per game. Cleveland's defense has certainly played very poorly thus far, having given up 38 points twice already this season (no other team has allowed this many or more in more than one game so far).

The rest of the team's schedule does not look promising whatsoever. The team is preparing to travel to Chicago for a Week 9 matchup against a 5-2 Bears squad. After that come the team's biggest rival, the Pittsburgh Steelers, whom the Browns were able to handedly defeat very early in the year for their only victory at this point. After that, the team will try to get revenge against a Baltimore team which seems to be finding itself with their first two wins coming in Weeks 7 & 8. Two straight home games will take place for the only time this season in Weeks 12 & 13, where the team will take on the Cincinnati Bengals and Tennessee Titans, two teams seriously vying for the AFC Central divisional title, and a coveted playoff spot. The Browns head to New England after that, to take on a good Patriots squad, but after that will play their final home game of their first season back in the NFL, during Week 15, hosting the Jacksonville Jaguars. Finally, Week 16 will have the Browns in Packers for a much expected defeat, but will try to close out the season with a win on the road in Tennessee against the defending AFC champion.