Brown BLog Predicts: Game 16 vs Dolphins - Wasting the Season

One of the reasons that our Browns wasted their 2024 Regular Season is that they set the tone by wasting their 2024 Pre Season.   Today's game will serve up a primary example of exactly how the Browns disrespected their pre season because it is likely the Dolphin's starting QB will be none other than Tyler Huntley.

I suspected from the first day the Brown signed Huntley that the signing had Paul DePodesta's fingerprints on it.   Why?   Because only Paul DePodesta would suggest to sign a player to showcase him in the preseason in order to trade him away for a draft pick before the regular season starts.   The Browns used valuable pre season reps that could have been given to Deshaun Watson and the starters, in order to showcase Tyler Huntley.   The result was predictable.   No NFL team was willing to give up so much as a 7th round pick for Huntley even when the Browns pretended to protect 4 Quarterbacks and the Browns were forced to cut him once the entire NFL called their bluff.  Meanwhile, Watson and the Browns offense was woefully underprepared for the start of the NFL regular season and we all witnessed the disaster that ensued.

I would be remiss if I did not point out the Browns also used the pre season to showcase Cade York instead of giving Dustin Hopkins a few kicks to work the kinks out.   The result, the Browns traded Cade York to the Redskins for a valuable 7th round pick, but the Redskins wisely conditioned that 7th round pick on York successfully playing in at least two NFL regular season games.   Oops!!  York missed two field goals in game 1, cost the Redskins a game and they cut him loose.   Meanwhile Hopkins never quite got in sync and has had a terrible season, costing the Browns a few opportunities to win games.   The Browns of course will say that Hopkins was injured in the pre season but at least I believed even back then that their claims that Hopkins was hurt were lame.   It was obvious what the Browns were up to.  They spent valuable pre season reps on Cade York chasing after that illustrious 7th round gold. 

Today will be yet another symbolic slap in the face as Tyler Huntley outplays DTR while Jimmy Haslam sits in his cold loge seat dreaming of his Brook Park dome and perhaps also dreaming of the day that Paul DePodesta actually develops a strategy that works.   It might actually happen someday, keep on dreaming!

Brown BLog Predicts

Miami     24

Browns   10 

The Brown Blog are 9-6 season to date predicting Browns games. 

Would Jimmy Haslam demote himself?

A few years ago Seth Wickersham of ESPN wrote a piece that exposed the inner workings of the Browns organization.  The article was extremely embarrassing for Browns owner Jimmy Haslam because it exposed his failings.  That was the day that "alignment" became a priority for the Browns.  Why?  To find that answer, simply ask yourself what the primary benefit of alignment is.   The biggest payoff of alignment is nobody outside the Browns organization knows who in Berea decides what.  Hence the spotlight is off Browns owner Mr. Haslam.   But if you look at the organization not much has changed.  Haslam did hire a couple of smart and mature adults to run his team in Andrew Berry and Kevin Stefanski and those gentlemen have done a solid job, however things have once again fallen off the rails in Berea in 2024.   

Why has 2024 been so bad?   Well let's look at the key milestones leading up to the 2024 season and speculate what undercurrents might have led to these decisions:

- Punish Kevin Stefanski for not producing more with Deshaun Watson by forcing him to fire trusted confidant and Offensive Coordinator Alex Van Pelt and arrange a new marriage with Ken Dorsey because you believe that Dorsey knows how to scheme an offense to fit the talents of Deshaun Watson.   This impulsive move to bet the farm has Mr. Haslam's fingerprints all over it.  You have a coach who just won Coach of the Year and you force him to fire a  member of his inner coaching circle?   Why?   Makes no sense whatsoever unless Paul DePodesta was whispering in Haslam's ear that the only reason Haslam's move to sign Watson was failing was because AVP wasn't scheming up enough chunk plays.   It's exactly the narrative that fit Jimmy Haslam's need to feel he is smarter than pundits give him credit for.   And feeding Jimmy Haslam a narrative that makes him feel good about himself is exactly how to influence him.

- Speaking of impulsive.   Signing Deshaun Watson to that $230M fully guaranteed contract is the Grassy Knoll of Cleveland Browns history.   The entire Browns org drove the Watson decision?  OK.....  After all 27 year old franchise QB's almost never become available.   Nevermind that the Houston Texans were willing to say goodbye to Watson, because your impulsive nature won't let you take a realistic view of why the Texans were willing to move Watson.  So spend $230M and assume the Houston Texans were fools for giving up on Deshaun Watson.    

The above decisions have everything to do with the 2024 nightmare of 3-12, soon to be 3-14.  And the failure of the Browns starts and ends with Jimmy Haslam.   But there is one major issue with correcting this problem.   That is that Mr. Haslam has NEVER been held accountable in his entire career.   Did he do a good job running Pilot Flying J.   It's hard to deny that Pilot Flying J was well run, one need only witness their success and the premium Warren Buffett paid to own it.  However the visionary of Pilot Flying J was Jimmy Haslam's father, Jim Haslam and I have no doubt Jimmy Haslam was a hard driving aggressive CEO who produced results.   But I also have no doubt that in a family business, the son NEVER gets fired and the son has the benefit of extraordinary mentoring.   I kept on top of the infamous rebate scandal at Pilot Flying J and what is clear is that leadership in Pilot Flying J did not understand that a rebate program has to be carefully accounted for with provisions and strong oversight.  This is Business 101 stuff but I honestly think that Pilot Flying J leadership believed they were doing nothing wrong by playing fast and loose with rebate accounting.   Any decent manager in a major corporation should understand those basic accounting standards, yet in Pilot Flying J nobody apparently did.   Jimmy Haslam was the CEO of that organization, he damn well should have created a culture that enabled sufficient governance.   Instead that organization was driven by profit motive.   Profit is a good way to run a business, but your accountants need to have teeth and assure that rules are followed.

Conclusion - Jimmy Haslam has probably rarely been held accountable the way normal folks are nor does he particularly relish admitting to his own mistakes.  The Browns do NOT need to fire Andrew Berry and Kevin Stefanski to right their ship.  What needs to be done is that Jimmy Haslam implement an organizational structure like that implemented by Sheila Ford when she took control of the Detroit Lions.  Ownership must be separated from Football Operations.   Give Haslam a liaison to operations like Sheila Ford Hamp has in Chris Spielman but please, for the love of God, remove Jimmy Haslam from any direct reports who run the football operations.   Today, Andrew Berry and Kevin Stefanski both report to Haslam,   End that as soon as possible and Haslam will have held accountable the one executive who has presided over most of the major issues this team has, himself!

Brown BLog Predicts: Week 15 vs Bengals - It's Obvious

The Browns never cease to amaze me with their persistent belief in the power of positive thinking and their determination to cling to their belief in an athlete's potential to succeed in the NFL when facts and data scream otherwise.

I am a fan.  I played two years of organized football, in other words I know less than nothing about the NFL but still... I watch every Browns game and in spite of what little I know, I can tell you that Dorian Thompson Robinson is not an NFL QB.  Because it is obvious.  He might not even be a CFL QB for that matter.  What DTR possesses in character and intelligence he lacks in arm strength and the physical make up needed to survive in the NFL.  He has played more than enough for anybody to see.   But the Browns continue to lie to themselves.   They do this over and over.  It still blows my mind that the Browns choose to keep DTR over Tyler Huntley during the pre season.  Any idiot can see that Tyler Huntley is a far better QB than DTR. 

But the Browns under Paul DePodesta, cling to the belief that there are athletes who fail in the NFL who might succeed if simply given the chance to play.   Wrong yet again, Paul.   Dorian Thompson Robinson indeed has several of the characteristics needed to play NFL football, but for a QB, smarts and moxie don't matter if you cannot throw a football accurately 40 yards down field while athletic 270 pound men are trying to beat you into a pulp.

Don't expect much this week

Brown BLog Predicts

Bengals        30

Browns        13

The Brown BLog are 8-6 season to date predicting Browns games. 

3-11

The Browns need to focus this week on going 8-0 vs the Bengals. 

Trust Us - We have done our homework!

Before the Browns traded for and signed Deshaun Watson they basically said, trust us, we have done our homework.  

That's the same message the Haslams are parroting now when they discuss the economics of building the Brook Park Dome.   Trust us, the dome will pay us all back.

Ok, sure.  Based on Deshaun, what the Haslam's mean when they say they've done their homework is that they convinced themselves, regardless of facts, that they are smarter than everyone else and an impulsive spend is a wise decision.

Now they want Ohio's Politicians to ante up $1,000,000,000 of our taxpayer dollars to subsidize their impulsive decision to build a dome?  What I question is whether or not the Haslams have spent more money paying the Public Relations firm leading their Brook Park Dome Campaign than they have spent studying the real economic benefits of building a dome.  

Trust the Haslam's homework?  Yeah, right.

Brown BLog: Game 14 vs Chiefs - Taylor Swift?

The most important story tomorrow will be whether Taylor Swift shows up and if she does not, would a nice expensive dome stadium paid 50% by the taxpayers of Ohio have been sufficient to get her to show up. 

Other than that, the actual game itself won't be much to talk about.

Brown BLog Predicts

Chiefs        30

Browns      10

The Brown BLog are 7-6 season to date. 

Brown BLog Predicts: Game 13 vs Steelers

I am looking more forward to Tuesday's edition of Hard Knocks than watching Sunday's Browns Steelers game because I am hoping to gather some insight into how Kevin Stefanski prepares his team this week.  That said, Stefanski apparently has editorial veto rights over everything he says, so my best guess is we will see a lot more of Mike Tomlin behind the scenes than we will of Kevin Stefanski.

Anyways, Sunday it's nearly impossible to imagine the Browns winning, albeit Jameis Winston has me sold.  He's possessed of a massive amount of heart and charisma, not to mention an arm that can make every throw.  But it won't be enough to beat a Steelers team looking for revenge and fighting for a high seed in the playoffs.

Brown BLog Predicts

Steelers        27

Browns        17

The Brown BLog is 6-6 season to date predicting Browns games. 

I AGREE!

99% of the Brown's problems start with the fact that Jimmy Haslam runs the team.

Examine the Detroit Lions org structure.  

Ownership has zero control over football operations.  Instead Chris Spielman serves as ownership's liaison to Football Operations.

Smart move!

Not only does Andrew Berry report to Jimmy Haslam but so does Kevin Stefanski.

Every stupid move the Browns have made in the last 10 years has Haslam's impulsive fingerprints on it, including the WORST trade / signing in NFL history, that of Deshaun Watson

Brown BLog Predicts: Game 12 - Monday Night Football at Denver

All signs point to a difficult evening on Monday for our Browns in the Mile High Altitude of Denver, Colorado.   The Browns are on the road against a well coached team but I have a feeling this week.   Why?

First Jim Schwartz will have a trick or two up his sleeve for Bronco's rookie QB Bo Nix.

Second, I believe the NFL would like nothing more than for the Browns to get hot while Hard Knocks is being filmed, so I would not be shocked if a referee happens to throw a flag or two in key moments against the Broncos.   Am I saying the NFL fixes games?   Not quite, I am saying in a well fought close game, the refs know which team the league is "rooting" for.   After all, ratings pay the bills.

Brown BLog Predicts

Browns 24

Bronco's 17

The Brown BLog are 6-5 season to date predicting Browns games. 

Brown BLog Predicts: Game 11 vs Steelers

I recall last season it was the Denver Bronco's game with Russell Wilson at QB where it first became apparent that NFL Offensive Coordinators were on to Jim Schwartz's defensive tactics and with a good QB at the command teams could take advantage of what the Browns were doing.   This season it feels like our Browns have mostly played good QB's and to make things worse, Jim Schwartz's curve ball and change up that have been added to his fastball, well, they ain't fooling nobody.

Look for Russell Wilson and the Steelers to make a few big plays even in the bad weather, while the Browns continue to struggle.

Brown BLog Predicts

Steelers 24

Browns  13

The Brown BLog are 6-4 season to date predicting Browns games.  

Brown BLog Predicts: Game 10 vs Saints

Forget about a win tomorrow, the Saints are not as bad as their 3-7 record and they still have a heartbeat in a weak division.  Meanwhile the Browns are every bit as bad as their 2-7 record, maybe even worse.  The Browns are an absolute train wreck and it's going to really derail tomorrow.  

Unfortunately the Browns have very few winnable games left this season and this is one of them.  I had a feeling a shit storm was coming this year when I predicted before the season started that the Browns would go 7-10.   Turns out that 4-13 might be closer to the final outcome.

Derek Carr has always done well against the Browns, who passed on Carr in the 2014 NFL Draft on the advice of the homeless guy.  Carr will continue the trend with an easy win vs the woeful Browns in the Big Easy.

Brown BLog Predicts

Saints        30

Browns     17

The Brown BLog are 5-4 season to date predicting Browns games.

2-7

It’s not complicated Browns fans, the Browns need to focus on this week and try to go 5-0 versus New Orleans

Haslam Sports Group: Consistency!

The Haslam Sports Group if nothing else, are consistent!

As of November 9

Milwaukee Bucks  2 - 7

Cleveland Browns 2 - 7

Paul DePodesta: Thought Partner!

Andrew Berry this week during his break week press availability referred to Paul DePodesta as his "thought partner".

Good work if you can get it.  Get paid 7 figures to work remote and do nothing more than encourage all your colleagues to question conventional NFL wisdom.

Result:  Be wrong far more than right, rinse, repeat!

The following analysis is tricky, because one of DePodesta's Guardrails he established before the brilliant 1-31 run he led, is "alignment" and "secrecy" which in addition to maintaining harmony, cushion him from accountability because nobody outside of Berea knows who decided what.   

But I will take a stab at this anyways:

DePo STRATEGY:   Go after Deshaun Watson at any price because 27 year old franchise QB's rarely come available.  

Result:  What Mr. DePodesta's recommendation on Deshaun Watson failed to weigh is that maybe, just maybe the Houston Texans are not idiots.   The reason they were willing to give up on a franchise QB is that they had 4 years to get to know Mr. Watson and knew his flaws.  Maybe that last 4-12 Watson put up, had a lot more to do with him than NFL folks realize.   Hats off to Houston for not letting the world know just how bad it was.

DePo STRATEGY:  Age is important, no wait age is not important.

Result:  The Browns have gone from the youngest roster in the NFL to one of the oldest.  Losing is a constant.

DePo STRATEGY:  Build your roster and use Free Agents less and less, no wait, use Free Agents more and more.

Result:   The above strategy was abandoned after another DePodesta strategy failed.  That would be use cheap defensive tackles because NFL defenses only need to defend against the pass.   Once teams ran all over the Browns in 2022, Jim Schwartz came in, turned the defense around but to get Schwartz to sign on they had to promise to abandon DePo's loony idea that small, young and cheap DT's are good enough.   Hence a new found love of free agents was embraced.

DePo STRATEGY:  Have a coordinator pipeline.

Result:  Fire Mike Priefer to punish and incentivize Kevin Stefanski into learning how to be a CEO Coach.   Hire Bubba Ventrone who I presume was on some list of future head coaches that the Browns analytics department keeps.   So far so good.   Ventrone's special teams have given up 4 touchdowns in less than 2 seasons while Priefer's special teams gave up 1 TD in 4 seasons.   Wonderful!  Meanwhile Ventrone has started to spread venom in his organization by not being in alignment.  How, by questioning the toughness of the Browns roster.   

Oops Paul, Bubba seems to need an alignment check in addition to needing help figuring out how to do his job.

Brown BLog Predicts: Game 9 vs Chargers - Play the Best Players

Kevin Stefanski has been searching for every edge possible over his last 4 years of coaching.   For instance, he will go to extraordinary pains not to reveal game details to the local press for fear of giving his opponent an edge.  He's doing it this week by not saying who the Left Tackle will be.  I am sure Jim Harbaugh knows perfectly well that Dawand Jones is playing Left Tackle.   Why?  Because he is better than Jed Wills!  

Coach, most NFL teams play the best player at every position.   You gain no edge trying to be coy.  It is a waste of time.

Along those same lines, let's hope that Coach Stefanski learned yet another lesson last week.   

PLAY THE BEST PLAYERS!!!!

Jameis Winston is a better QB than Deshaun Watson.  If Stefanski knows his football and I am sure he does, he knew this fact months ago.   It was obvious last Sunday that the 2-6 Browns would not be 2-6 if the best QB had played this season.

The Browns have more talent than the Chargers and they are at home.  That adds up to the Browns being 3-6 by Sunday evening. 

Brown BLog Predicts

Browns       30

Chargers     24

The Brown BLog are 5-3 season to date predicting Browns games. 

Brown BLog Predicts: Game 8 vs Ravens - Back to Basics

A few weeks ago Kevin Stefanski spoke of the need for his squad to get "back to basics" and it was at that point I knew the Browns season was likely finished.  

The Browns real problems started when Paul DePodesta and Jimmy Haslam decided to force Kevin Stefanski to uproot his entire offensive support structure with the goal of maximizing the teams ability to create "explosive plays."   I blame Stefanski too, because in the end, he went along with the lunacy.   After 4 years of working with Paul DePodesta I suspect Kevin Stefanski knows perfectly well that DePo is full of shit.   For Stefanski to agree to fire AVP and turnover most of his offensive staff shows that he was afraid to say what he really believes for fear of being seen as not in alignment.   

The problem is simple:  Paul DePodesta apparently got Jimmy Haslam and Andrew Berry to believe that explosive plays are driven primarily by scheme.  It's as stupid a strategy as a baseball fan can come up with.  

What was the result?

Stefanski loses his entire offensive support structure starting with the firing of his trusted assistant and during the off season, Stefanski was overwhelmed by how to implement a new scheme that will satisfy Jimmy and DePo.

Bill Walsh once stated that if you have to get back to basics, it's because you have not built the basics into your daily routine.   My guess is that Stefanski focused his team 100% on learning the new scheme, gave them far too much to digest and ignored the basics.

The outcome is 1-6 and it's going to get worse from here.

The Ravens are a team so focused on the basics, so stable that they are able to layer in sophistication with the due care required, over seasons of consistent effort.  This season Lamar Jackson has near complete control of the offense, he's adjusting his protection packages moments before each snap and changing plays whenever he needs to.  Could Lamar have handled that in his first few years with the Ravens?   No!   Ask Deshaun Watson how easy it is to develop a sophisticated understanding of a scheme.  The Browns force fed Watson and his entire offense too much, Watson paid, probably with his career for that mistake.  He took so many hits in a scheme he and his teammates were not ready to run that eventually he finally took one too many hits.   

 Lamar Jackson is in his 3rd year in Todd Monken's scheme and he has 7 years running the Ravens offense and That's why they are scoring over 30 points a game this season.

Browns fans, it is PICK YOUR POISON this week.   

Stop Derrick Henry and Lamar Jackson will either run or kill you in the air.

Stop Lamar Jackson in the air and Derrick Henry will kill you on the ground.

I do believe that Jameis Winston will be able to get the ball accurately 20+ yards downfield and the Browns will move the ball for the first time this season, I even see the Browns surpassing that magical 20 point barrier for the first time this season, the definition of an average NFL offense.   A turnover or two might even help the Browns compete on Sunday, but the Ravens are going to win this game. 

The Brown BLog Predicts

Ravens   27

Browns  24

The Brown BLog are 5-2 season to date predicting Browns games. 

Cheering Deshaun Watson’s Injury

Yesterday during the matchup between the Cleveland Browns and the Cincinnati Bengals, Deshaun Watson suffered a severe injury. Watson has been struggling under heavy scrutiny for both his on-field performance and his controversial past. However, the reaction from some in the crowd was shocking: instead of expressing concern for an injured player, some fans openly cheered and taunted Watson as medical personnel attended to him.

As I witnessed this, I was embarrassed for those fans. Their behavior lacked basic decency, empathy, and sportsmanship—values that should be central to any athletic event. But on deeper reflection, I couldn’t help but see this as a symptom of a broader sickness in our culture: a degradation in civil discourse where cruelty is no longer shamed, but celebrated.

One can’t ignore that these incidents don’t happen in a vacuum. They are often reflections of the leadership that surrounds them. American society is no stranger to divisiveness, but in recent years, it has felt like the bar for acceptable public behavior has been lowered dramatically. The most glaring example of this is Donald Trump, whose brash, confrontational style has dominated headlines for years. Whether calling political opponents names or undermining anyone who disagrees with him, Trump has normalized a rhetoric that is aggressive, unfiltered, and frequently offensive. His influence on public discourse has been undeniable, and his words have rippled through society, emboldening some to follow suit.

Now, consider that Jimmy Haslam, the owner of the Cleveland Browns, is believed to be a Trump supporter. Given this connection, is it really surprising that some fans within the Browns’ community would reflect this same kind of behavior? When the tone set at the top normalizes attacks on those who don’t align with a particular worldview, it isn’t shocking to see that trickle down to other facets of life, including something as seemingly apolitical as football.

Leadership is a powerful thing. It doesn’t just shape policies or decisions; it shapes attitudes, behavior, and societal norms. If those in power consistently engage in dehumanizing, divisive rhetoric, it gives tacit permission for others to do the same, whether on the political stage, in the workplace, or in the bleachers of a stadium. The booing of an injured athlete, especially one as polarizing as Watson, is a reflection of a much larger problem: a culture where bad behavior is increasingly tolerated, if not encouraged.

Ultimately, the incident at the Browns game was about more than just sports. It was a microcosm of what happens when poor leadership leads to the erosion of civility. While Deshaun Watson is not a popular figure, and his actions off the field have left many divided, moments like this should remind us of a higher standard of conduct we should strive for—not just in football, but in life.

1-6

The Browns need to focus on going 5-0 next week. 

Brown BLog Predicts: Game 7 Football is an emotional Game!

Football is an emotional game and this Sunday, the Browns are going to get a big emotional boost by the return of Nick Chubb.   His return could not happen at a better time because the team is falling apart at 1-5.   Chubb symbolizes everything that is great about the Browns and the Cleveland area.   He is a no nonsense worker much like this blue collar city.

However great Nick Chubb is, he is coming back from a devastating injury.   His presence alone will give the team an emotional boost but he will also be on a pitch count.   The Browns won't say what exactly that pitch count is but most pundits believe he will be limited to 10 carries and maybe a couple of pass catches.

Is it enough?

I have been following the Bengals all year on the Bengals Booth Podcast.   The team might be 2-4 but they are not a bad team.   The barely lost to both the Chiefs and Ravens.   They have a top 5 QB and loads of talent on offense including Ja' Marr Chase, arguably the best pass catcher in the game.   People are knocking their defense but I don't buy that either.   Their defense is capable.

The other shortcoming the Bengals have vs the Browns is that the Cleveland Browns are a team built to stop the Bengals.   The Browns are small and fast at linebacker and Cleveland has a deep reserve of excellent defensive backs.   Many teams understand this and force the Browns to stop their run game.  The Bengals however have always refused to exploit Cleveland's vulnerability to the run game or even scheme to beat the Browns attacking defense.   Hence Cleveland has dominated the rivalry with the Burrow era Bengals going 1-5 when Burrow is in the driver seat.

So I believe the Browns are going to win tomorrow right?

I just can't do it.   Why?   Because Deshaun Watson and his diminished skillset is the leader of the Browns.   His shoulder and whatever emotional baggage comes from the rollercoaster of accusations these last 3 years have changed him.   He's now a top 100 QB, not a top 5 and in the NFL a bad performance from the QB usually translates to losses like it has this season for the Browns.  Furthermore Paul DePodesta have never been one to try to win ugly and since Paul DePodesta's voice weighs heavily in this org, neither does Kevin Stefanski win ugly.

The Browns won't run 60% of the time and pass conservatively.   Nor will Nick Chubb get 20 carries.  I think the Bengals will not test the Browns by running more, they never do but they have been passing more conservatively which nowadays done right, is almost as good as a run.

The Brown BLog Predict

Bengals         27

Browns         17

The Brown BLog are 4-2 predicting Browns games this season

The Brook Park Volunteers!

The Cleveland Browns, an iconic NFL franchise, may be facing a name change when the team finally relocates to it's new dome stadium 10 miles away to nearby Brook Park, Ohio. This scenario stems from a law tied to the departure of former Browns owner Art Modell. When Modell moved the team to Baltimore in 1996, Ohio lawmakers passed legislation (often referred to as the "Art Modell law") that effectively ensures the Browns name stays in Cleveland, no matter where the team may go.  This legal framework means that even a short move to a neighboring municipality could strip the team of its the Browns name. If the Browns were to relocate to Brook Park, the team could be forced to adopt a new identity.  Frankly, I hope our legislators pursue this issue to the fullest extent.   The Browns should be a Cleveland brand and only Cleveland.

So what should the new name of our Northern Ohio NFL team be?

If the team moves to Brook Park, the combination of Ohio's legal stipulations and the Haslams' connections to Tennessee makes the idea of the Brook Park Volunteers a logical outcome. 

Go Vols! 

1-5

 Browns need to go 4-0 next week

Back to Basics!

Kevin Stefanski recently stated that the Browns need to get back to basics.   

Bill Walsh, the legendary coach of the San Francisco 49ers, was known for his strategic brilliance and insightful commentary on coaching and football culture. When asked about NFL coaches who claim they need to "get back to basics," Walsh famously said that this often signals a coach’s admission of having failed in their coaching responsibilities. He believed that a well-prepared team should already be fundamentally sound, and that such statements were essentially an excuse for poor planning, lack of foresight, or inability to properly teach and implement a game plan.

In Walsh’s view, saying a team needs to return to basics reflects a lack of preparation or failure in the process, as the fundamentals should have been ingrained throughout the training process. He championed a more sophisticated, methodical approach to coaching, emphasizing preparation and precision over broad, generalized fixes like "getting back to basics."

Brown BLog Predicts: Game 6 vs Eagles - It is all about improvement

John Harbaugh once aptly referred to the NFL season as a "race to improve" and it's clear that Sunday against the Eagles the Cleveland Browns are going to improve in every way.

Will that translate to a victory against the Eagles?  Of course not but if the Browns cannot improve in the following areas tomorrow, then we Browns fans are looking at 4 or fewer wins this year.

What shall be improved?

- Jim Schwartz stated that against the Commanders the Browns defense gave up 7 big plays for a total 280 yards.  In the other 58 plays, the Browns D only gave up an average of 2.5 yards per play.   So great news, I see the Browns improving on D and only giving up a maximum of 6 big plays to the Eagles.

- Deshaun Watson has yet to throw for 200 yards this season.  He is ranked near the bottom in pretty much every statistical category.  I predict he will throw for 200+ yards against the Eagles.

- The Browns have yet to reach 300 yards of total offense in a game this season.  I believe they will improve and exceed 300 yards. 

The depressing fact is that ALL of the above improvements are achievable at the same time they are significantly below the bar of what it takes to win in the NFL. 

Of course, the Eagles are rested and healthy and coming off a bye week following a big loss to Tampa and their MVP candidate QB Baker Mayfield.   The Eagles will be motivated at home to win.

Brown BLog Predicts

Eagles        31

Browns      17

The Brown BLog are 3-2 Predicting Browns games this season.   Better than every paid Browns pundit out there, because as a private blog we can call it as we see it.

Browns Innovation: The CFL Package!

The Browns boast the NFL's largest investment in Analytics and Sunday they unveiled their latest well researched innovation:  The CFL Package!   Twice on defense and once on offense the Browns looked to use their new CFL Package based on sophisticated research showing that CFL teams, who utilize 12 players, are able to cover larger parts of the field.   

Of course, the one obstacle is that in the NFL it is against the rules to have 12 men on the field however our sources indicate that the Browns believe that if they attempt the 12 man formation at times in the game when the refs are tired the Browns may well be able to avert detection.  The Browns Analytics department states that the odds of achieving a chunk play on offense or shutting down an opponent on defense increase by 9.09% with one extra athlete on the field!!

So fear not, Browns loyalists, the Browns might be 1-4 this season but they are deeply engaged in identifying areas of innovation that can still save the season for this team.

Brown BLog Predicts: Game 5 - Facing a Rookie QB

Jayden Daniels is a sensation early on in the 2024 Season which makes the Commanders a favorite to beat the floundering Browns tomorrow.   

I have never been a fan of rookie QB's and in fact I think Daniels is going to get a serious dose of reality Sunday against the Browns D which will be extra motivated to shut him down.   Fact is that thus far this season Daniels has faced mostly zone defenses.   The Browns are going to be the first time he faces a team that can cover man to man and will do so much of the game.   The Browns small but fast linebackers are ideally suited to handle Daniels ability to run.

Does that mean I think the Browns are going to win tomorrow?   It will be a tight game because I do not see the Commanders running up a lot of points however Dan Quinn is a good coach and I see him crafting a game plan that will be quite conservative.  He knows the Browns are going to try to frustrate his rookie QB so he's going to change tendencies, running a lot.

The Browns should be able to move the ball against Washington but this Browns team is already starting to tear at the seams due to injury and the diminished skillsets of key players, not the least of which is Deshaun Watson.

Look for a tight battle but yet another close heart wrenching defeat for the Browns.

Brown BLog Predicts

Washington         20

Cleveland            17

The Brown BLog are 2-2 season to date picking Browns games.

Stupid is as Stupid Does: Part II

Dustin Hopkins did not get a single kick in the Pre Season and the Browns never said more than the lame "he has a minor injury but will be ready for the regular season."  Sure, ok.

Against the Raiders, Hopkins missed a critical extra point.   Against the Giants, Hopkins missed a Field Goal that could have changed the game.  Could the Pre Season work have helped Hopkins tune his game?   Of course, that's why they have a Pre Season.

Why did the Browns not give Hopkins any reps?  So they could show off Cade York, who had previously flopped with the Browns after they made a big time stretch and picked him in the 4th round.   The Browns did trade York to the Commanders, who insisted however that York prove himself for 2 whole games.  Naturally York stumbled in Game 1 and the Commanders cut him. 

Net Result:

- Browns invest an entire Pre Season in York and end up with NOTHING

- Dustin Hopkins misses have contributed to 2 of the 3 Browns losses.

Stupid.

Brown BLog Predicts: Week 4 - Browns vs Raiders

 

Since the Paul DePodesta era began, the Browns have adopted an optimist view of player evaluation that assumes an athlete the Browns deem NFL worthy, will play at an NFL level of proficiency, regardless of what the Browns might see in practice.  In the case of proven starters, the Browns like many NFL teams, chose to avoid putting an athlete at risk of harm in the pre season.  In the case of young players, the Browns philosophy is that playing time is a key to player development and it's fair to say that if the Browns believe in an athlete they will give him playing time regardless of whether he has earned it.  Just ask Anthony Schwartz.

Thus far this season, it's the teams like Kansas City and Pittsburgh that are going well because they require players to earn their playing time by proving in the pre season they are still NFL quality.  This season Dawand Jones is obviously playing on a right knee that is limited.   The Browns learned this only when Deshaun Watson started getting hit.   They are also learning that Deshaun Watson's shoulder might well be healed but he has not regained 100% of his previous capacity.   Surgery techniques are so advanced today that athletes are often able to retain 100% of their pre injury strength, quickness and durability.   But Deshaun Watson's injury was not a common one yet the Browns seem to believe that if Watson can throw the ball 50 yards downfield he must be 100% but let's allow ourselves to examine the possibility that Watson has lost something.   In a game where a split second can be the difference between winning and losing, sorry to say, so far the evidence points to the possibility that Deshaun has lost that split second.  

The Raiders are hurting with Maxx Crosby probably out and Davonte Adams out for sure, but the Browns are short David Njoku and Myles Garrett is not exactly 100%.    But the biggest factor has to be Deshaun Watson.   He might be healthy but his shoulder is 80% to 90% of what it once was and the worry here is that is now his ceiling.   If so, that is not good enough and this promises to be a very long season for the Browns

The Brown BLog Predict

Raiders            24

Browns            16

The Brown BLog are 1-2 season to date 

Brown BLog Predicts: Game 3 Browns vs. Giants

 

This is a game the Browns should win but as the pundits like to say on any given Sunday anything can happen in the NFL.   However, I think the Browns should and will win.

Look for Deshaun Watson to have a big game on Sunday.   His toughness against Dallas and his resilience against Jacksonville has been impressive.   It feels like Deshaun is going to pass for at least 250 yards and a couple touchdowns and the Browns roll.

Brown BLog Predicts

Browns   31

Giants     17

The Brown BLog are 1-1 predicting Browns games this season. 

Brown BLog Predicts: Game 2 on the Road in Jacksonville

 

The Brown BLog correctly predicted the shit show against the Cowboys in the Season Opener, sorry to say that I saw it coming.  

This week vs Jacksonville is a bit harder to call, but here we go.  

I see three factors lining up that tip the prediction.   That said, there is no way the Browns are going to play nearly as bad against Jacksonville but in any case here are the issues with tomorrow's game:

• The home team wins about 56% of the time in the NFL, it's harder to win on the road
• To increase their odds of beating Jacksonville, the Browns need to lean on their defense and the offense needs to play complimentary ball, supporting their defense by eating clock and playing conservatively on offense.   Paul DePodesta does not believe in winning ugly and since he runs strategy, the Browns never play football that way.  It's all about 20 yard gains, even if your talent is not capable of achieving those big gains on a regular basis.
• Kevin Stefanski is not calling the game in a way that fits exactly what Ken Dorsey is trying to do, and this is not helping our $230,000,000 QB play freely.

I see a Field Goal being the difference in this game.  Specifically I see a Field Goal that the Browns don't try to kick being the difference.   At some point the Browns will have a 4th and 1 inside the Jacksonville 40 and Paul DePodesta's team will speak into Offensive Coordinator Kevin Stefanski's headset to demand the Browns go for it.   Result will be predictable.   Jacksonville's ball.

Brown Blog Predicts

Jacksonville 21

Browns        20

The Brown BLog are 1-0 this season.

Dear Deshaun

 Dear Deshaun,

I hope this letter finds you well—or at least as well as someone can be under the immense pressure of nationwide scrutiny and public outrage. But fear not! I’ve cracked the code for you, and it’s not only simple, it’s tremendously successful. The answer, my friend, is right in front of you: Donald Trump.

Yes, Donald J. Trump—the man who rose from the ashes of controversy to lead a nation—has created the blueprint for turning scandal into success, and I believe you, Deshaun, can do the same. Let me walk you through how to “Make Deshaun Great Again.”

Just like Trump handled his minor problems with accusations of misconduct, never admit to anything—ever.  You are doing well here, keep it up!  Even if there are 26 allegations against you, or 26,000, it’s all part of a politically motivated hoax. Say it loud, say it proud: "Fake news!"

Trump didn’t back down when tapes surfaced of him saying incriminating things. He called it “locker room talk.” You, too, can use this powerful tool. Next time someone brings up the allegations, brush it off: "It’s just post-massage banter." Easy. The key is to never apologize. Apologies are for losers.

The more you attack, the more your fans will rally around you. Remember, when Trump was faced with accusations, did he apologize? No! He went after the women, calling them liars, saying they were out to get money or fame. You should do the same. Paint your accusers as opportunists, part of some grand conspiracy to take down an NFL superstar. Say they're just jealous of your success.

Bonus points: SUE THEM. Trump is the king of lawsuits. Every accusation? Counter it with a lawsuit for defamation. Flood the courts with legal action. It’ll tie everything up in knots and make it seem like you’re the real victim here.

Here’s where you can truly shine. Twitter, Instagram, Threads—it’s all your playground. Trump mastered social media by going on the offensive, controlling the narrative, and never letting anyone else speak louder than him.

You need to be active—tweet constantly. Every day, remind your followers that you are a fighter. Post workout videos. Show how dedicated you are to football and how you’ve “overcome adversity.” Sprinkle in posts about charity work, thanking God, and, of course, retweeting anyone who supports you, no matter how fringe. The goal is to flood the space with your voice so that your version of events is the only one people hear.

When things get too hot, Trump goes on TV. You should too. Sit down with the friendliest possible media outlet (think Fox Sports or someone who will ask questions about your “grit” and how you’re “dealing with adversity”).

Look for an opportunity to use TV appearances to pivot the narrative. If asked about the allegations, use the classic Trump line: "These are just distractions from the important work I’m doing." Bring it back to football, bring it back to your dedication. Remind people that you’re just here to win games.

But, when the media attacks you, attack back! Claim bias. Trump has his "fake news" war. You can have your "NFL media vendetta" campaign. Say they’re trying to tear down successful Black men or spin it as part of the larger war against athletes. This will not only flip the blame but also galvanize your base of supporters.

Trump’s key to maintaining dominance over a scandal is making even bigger, bolder statements that grab headlines. You need to take this same approach. For instance, when people bring up the allegations, respond with a wild, unrelated claim. Announce that you’re planning to start a massage therapy charity to help “fix the broken system.” It doesn’t have to make sense, it just has to divert attention.

Another winning suggestion, endorse Donald Trump for President and say you're considering running for political office after football. A bold move like that ensures that your NFL career becomes secondary to the massive "national conversation" about Deshaun Watson, the leader and it will motivate Trump's base to support you. You’re no longer just an athlete—now, you’re a potential future governor and President. Instant rebrand!

Trump’s most brilliant strategy? Cultivate an unshakable base.  He keeps his core supporters happy with constant praise and by telling them they’re smarter than everyone else. Do the same with your fans. Host exclusive events, give them special shout-outs, call them "the real MVPs." These fans will defend you at all costs, especially if they feel personally connected to you.

Finally, remember: It’s not about what happened, it’s about what you SAY happened. Trump didn’t let reality get in the way of his rise to power, and you shouldn’t either. With the right approach, Deshaun, you won’t just recover—you’ll thrive.  Not only that but after your NFL days are over, you will have opened the door to a very promising career in American Politics!

Yours respectfully, 

A fan

Brown BLog Predicts: Season Opener - Browns vs Cowboys

This Sunday is a match up of last season's best offense vs the best defense:

• Cowboys scored 29.9 points per game
• Browns led the NFL in shutting down opponents offense on Third Down

So who is going to win?

The Cowboys were consistent on offense last season, they scored more than 30 points in 11 of 17 games.   The Browns however were not quite as consistent on Defense.   When the Browns faced a great QB their defense had holes that could be exploited and veteran QB's were able to create.  Dak Prescott is a Franchise QB and Dallas will find ways to take advantage of Cleveland's aggressive defensive approach. 

Another key:  Can Dallas D keep Cleveland out of the end zone?  

Cleveland was average in the red zone last season with 57% of their red zone opportunities resulting in a TD.    Can the addition of Ken Dorsey improve that?   Well, it has to be hard for Dorsey to improve what he does not control.  Kevin Stefanski is calling the plays not Dorsey.   I see a disconnect there.  Combine that with the fact that the Cleveland offense has not had much of an opportunity in the Training Camp to practice together, and I think the Browns are going to continue to struggle in the red zone. 

Brown BLog Predicts:  Red Zone Efficiency leads to a big Dallas win

Dallas    34

Browns  23

Brown BLog Predicts: AFC North 2024

The toughest division in the NFL promises to be exciting and competitive again in 2024.

Here are my predictions for each team:

First Place:  Baltimore Ravens  12-5

- The Ravens are the best coached and most talented team in the AFC North

- Lamar Jackson will get more freedom to improvise at the line of scrimmage

- The Ravens new Offensive Linemen and draft picks will shine

Second Place:  Cincinnati Bengals 10-7

- The Bengals have Joe Burrow and Ja'Marr Chase.

- The Bengals have one of the easiest schedules in the entire NFL

- The Bengals are one of the youngest teams in the NFL which is a negative and their youth will cost them some games.

Third Place:  Pittsburgh Steelers  9-8

- The Steelers have Mike Tomlin

- Russell Wilson still has some gas in the tank

Last Place:  Cleveland Browns  7-10

- One of the toughest schedules in the NFL

- It does not look to me like Kevin Stefanski and Ken Dorsey are on the same page.  

- Deshaun Watson's shoulder is a huge unknown.

 

Stupid is as Stupid Does: The Tyler Huntley Saga

Sometimes the Cleveland Browns really outdo themselves. The Tyler Huntley Saga is a great example. The Browns signed Huntley in the off season because they were concerned about DTR's hip. Ok, seems reasonable. Huntley is an NFL QB and he fits what the Browns are trying to do and DTR had a very serious injury not to mention the fact that DTR is not as physically gifted as Huntley.  

When DTR played last year, he played like a version of Cody Kessler with a little bit more speed.  But Dorian Thompson-Robinson has one major factor going for him. He was drafted by the Browns and the Browns hate cutting draft picks.  The only draft pick the Browns have ever cut after less than 2 years is Siaki Ika, who could not stay on his feet even when not being blocked by anybody.   

This preseason, happily DTR got past his hip issue, looked healthy in the preseason and even played well against the vanilla defenses he faced.   But does he belong in the NFL?   

 Thus began the stupidity: 

 - The Browns chose DTR over Huntley and I doubt there is another team in the NFL that would make that choice.  Don't get me wrong, I like DTR and I think he would make an excellent CFL QB but he's nowhere near as good as Tyler Huntley.

 - The Browns then leaked that they were considering trading DTR and Jameis Winston. Why? To incentivize the many NFL teams eager to give up a draft pick for Tyler Huntley. Of course no NFL team was willing to trade a 5 or a 6 for Tyler Huntley. Why? Because they knew the Browns were going to cut him. 

 - Finally, today our rival, the Baltimore Ravens, sign Tyler Huntley. 

 I find it comical that Kevin Stefanski won't tell the local press ANYTHING about ANYTHING because sharing information with the press gives potential rivals information that they can use to beat the Browns. But now, a QB who spent the last 5 months as a member of the Cleveland Browns has gone back to Baltimore where he certainly will be debriefed about every single fact he has digested as a member of the Browns. 

 Stupid is as stupid does.

Stefanski and Dorsey: An Arranged Marriage

If you believe the Browns PR narrative, it was Kevin Stefanski who proactively decided to fire his close collaborator Alex Van Pelt in order to lift his Browns to new heights and unleash the strengths of Deshaun Watson. Many of us however believe that the marriage of Kevin Stefanski and Ken Dorsey was more the product of an edict from Jimmy Haslam and Paul DePodesta. A decision from the top, forced on Kevin Stefanki, in an effort to increase the Browns potential to create explosive plays. An arranged marriage. It is too early to draw conclusions however at this point it is concerning to watch the lack of rapport between Kevin Stefanski and Ken Dorsey and while it is still preseason, relative to other NFL teams this preseason, the Browns offense is out of sync.

Browns History: Linebacker Gerald Irons

Gerald Irons, a name that resonates with fans of hard-hitting, intelligent football, was more than just a linebacker during his time in the NFL—he was a pioneer. Though his professional journey began with the Oakland Raiders, it was his time with the Cleveland Browns from 1976 to 1979 that truly cemented his legacy as one of the game’s transformative figures.

Standing at 6'2" and weighing around 230 pounds, Irons was a physical specimen for his time, bringing a combination of height, speed, and strength that allowed him to excel in multiple facets of the game. At a time when linebackers were primarily tasked with stopping the run, Irons’ athleticism made him one of the first linebackers capable of defending against the run, rushing the passer, and dropping back into pass coverage with equal proficiency.

His unique skill set set the stage for the evolution of the linebacker position. No longer would a linebacker be confined to the trenches, solely focused on run-stopping duties. Instead, Irons helped pave the way for the modern, versatile linebacker—a player who must be able to cover tight ends and running backs in the passing game while also being able to disrupt the quarterback and plug gaps in the running game.

During his time with the Browns, Irons made a significant impact on the field. Though statistics from that era are not as comprehensive as today’s, Irons’ contributions can be seen in his interception, sack, and tackle numbers. He recorded 6 interceptions and 6 sacks in his four seasons with Cleveland, showcasing his ability to read the quarterback, make plays in coverage, and disrupt the passing game—uncommon for linebackers of his time.

Additionally, Irons was known for his tackling ability, consistently finishing near the top of the team’s leaderboard in tackles each season. His combination of size and speed allowed him to cover large areas of the field, making him a constant threat to opposing offenses. His ability to rush the passer, evidenced by his sack totals, often forced hurried throws and created turnovers.

Gerald Irons’ influence on the linebacker position cannot be understated. His ability to play all aspects of the linebacker role at a high level made him a valuable asset to the Browns and a nightmare for opposing offenses. His legacy is evident in today’s NFL, where linebackers are expected to be multi-dimensional, capable of excelling in both run support and pass coverage.

Irons’ time with the Browns may not have garnered the same headlines as some of his contemporaries, but his impact on the game was profound. He was a linebacker ahead of his time, whose versatility and athleticism helped redefine what it meant to play the position. His contributions to the Cleveland Browns and the NFL as a whole remain a testament to his skill, intelligence, and pioneering spirit on the football field.

Data Insufficiency - The Problem with Paul DePodesta's Browns Analytics

Over the past few years every time the Browns get "cute" when calling a play I think to myself, "Why in God's name do the Browns give Paul DePodesta so much influence?"   

That stated, I do believe that the strategy of questioning conventional wisdom has paid dividends for the Browns if only in their selection of Andrew Berry as General Manager.  Having a "team first" leader at the top of any organization who can put his ego to the side and use a facts based approach that questions conventional wisdom when necessary is a huge plus.  Andrew Berry is all of those things and much more. 

It does appear that Browns are moving past the era where every single bit of conventional NFL wisdom is second guessed and that's a good thing too.  Bringing your second string quarterback into the game to replace your $230,000,000 quarterback on 4th down and less than 1 yard vs a Division Rival and then throwing a 40 yard incomplete pass to the end zone may well challenge conventional wisdom but sometimes conventional wisdom is actually wise. 

Here’s a comparison of the use of analytics in professional baseball versus professional football, focusing on the significance and relevance of measurable variables:

Baseball Analytics

1. Nature of the Game:

   - Discrete Events: Baseball is composed of a series of discrete events (pitches, at-bats, fielding plays), which are easier to isolate and analyze.

   - Large Sample Size: Each player has many opportunities (e.g., hundreds of at-bats or innings pitched) to generate data, leading to robust statistical analysis.

2. Measurable Variables:

   - Pitching Metrics: ERA, WHIP, strikeout rates, and pitch velocities.

   - Hitting Metrics: Batting average, on-base percentage, slugging percentage, exit velocity, and launch angle.

   - Fielding Metrics: Defensive runs saved (DRS), ultimate zone rating (UZR), and fielding percentage.

3. Impact of Analytics:

   - Player Evaluation: Sabermetrics have revolutionized how players are valued (e.g., Moneyball).

   - In-Game Decisions: Data-driven decisions on shifts, pitch selection, and batting order.

   - Long-Term Strategy: Teams use analytics for draft strategy, player development, and contract negotiations.

Football Analytics

1. Nature of the Game:

   - Complex Interactions: Football involves complex interactions among 22 players on the field, making it harder to isolate individual contributions.

   - Smaller Sample Size: Fewer games and plays per season result in a smaller data set for analysis.

2. Measurable Variables:

   - Player Metrics: Yardage (passing, rushing, receiving), touchdowns, and interceptions.

   - Team Metrics: Points scored, points allowed, and time of possession.

   - Advanced Metrics: Expected points added (EPA), win probability, and player tracking data (e.g., Next Gen Stats).

3. Impact of Analytics:

   - Player Evaluation: Combines traditional scouting with data on player efficiency and situational performance.

   - In-Game Decisions: Fourth-down decision-making, play-calling tendencies, and clock management.

   - Long-Term Strategy: Roster construction, injury prevention, and game planning.

Conclusion

Baseball:

- Statistical Significance and Relevance: Due to the discrete nature of events and the large sample size, baseball analytics yield statistically significant and relevant insights. These metrics can be highly predictive of future performance and directly influence game outcomes and player evaluation.

  

Football:

- Data Insufficiency: The complex interactions on the field, smaller sample sizes, and greater variability make it more challenging to derive statistically significant and actionable insights. While analytics are useful for strategic planning and situational decisions, they are less deterministic compared to baseball.

In summary, while analytics play a critical role in both sports, the measurable variables in baseball are more statistically significant and relevant due to the nature of the game, leading to clearer and more direct applications. In contrast, football's complexity and variability mean that while data can inform strategy, it often requires a more nuanced and context-dependent approach.

Winning Head Coaches

 Here is a list of Cleveland Browns head coaches who have a lifetime winning percentage greater than .500:

1. Paul Brown (1946–1962)

   - Regular season: 111-44-5 (.714)

   - Playoffs: 9-5 (.643)

2. Blanton Collier (1963–1970)

   - Regular season: 76-34-2 (.688)

   - Playoffs: 3-4 (.429)

3. Nick Skorich (1971–1974)

   - Regular season: 30-24-2 (.556)

   - Playoffs: 0-2 (.000)

4. Marty Schottenheimer (1984–1988)

   - Regular season: 44-27 (.620)

   - Playoffs: 2-4 (.333)

5. Kevin Stefanski (2020–present)

   - Regular season: 37-31 (.544)

   - Playoffs: 1-2 (.333)

2024: It is all about Deshaun

Every season when I predict where the Cleveland Browns will finish in the ultra tough AFC North Division, I ask myself one question.

What if the GM's of the Cincinnati Bengals, Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers called and each of them offered the following trade?   Their entire roster for the complete roster of the Cleveland Browns.

If that were to happen tomorrow the only team I would say no to is the Pittsburgh Steelers.   Why?  Because in the NFL it is all about the QB.

If Deshaun Watson returns to the status he once enjoyed as a Top 5 QB the answer "no" would be easy.  

So in 2024, Browns fans, it is all about Deshaun.   If his shoulder is sound and the scheme fits his talent, the Browns are going to set the world on fire.

If not, third place is our best case scenario, albeit in the AFC North that still might mean a playoff appearance. 

NFL Football Hall of Fame - Is the Election Process Broken?

I am primarily a Browns fan but since we reside in the best division in the NFL, by far, I have taken to following the Ravens, Steelers and Bengals almost as closely as I follow our Browns.

One of my absolute pet peeves is the fact that Browns great Clay Matthews is not in the Hall of Fame.  It's an injustice to his amazing career.   

It is hard to not feel some real affection for the Bengals because in a sense, were it not for Art Modell's poor judgement, Paul Brown would have guided the Browns instead of forming the expansion Bengals and today Mike Brown would most likely be running the Browns.  

In the process of following the Bengals I have identified 3 more overwhelmingly deserving players who should be in Canton:  Ken Anderson, Tim Krumrie and Corey Dillon.   When you examine the numbers, there is an overwhelming case for each of these athletes.  

Clay Matthews Jr.

- Teams: Cleveland Browns (1978-1993), Atlanta Falcons (1994-1996)

- Career Highlights:

  - Played 19 seasons in the NFL, 16 of which were with the Cleveland Browns.

  - Four-time Pro Bowler (1985, 1987, 1988, 1989).

  - Recorded 1,561 tackles, 69.5 sacks, and 16 interceptions in his career.

  - Known for his durability and consistency, playing in 278 games, which is the 17th most in NFL history.

Hall of Fame Case:

  - Matthews' longevity and productivity are hallmarks of his career. His 1,561 tackles are among the highest ever recorded.

  - His four Pro Bowl selections highlight his peak performance years.

  - Matthews was a key player in the Browns' defensive success during the 1980s, leading to multiple playoff appearances.

  - Few linebackers have demonstrated the combination of durability, consistency, and high-level play over such an extended period.

Ken Anderson

Team: Cincinnati Bengals (1971-1986)

Career Highlights:

  - NFL MVP (1981)

  - Four-time Pro Bowler (1975, 1976, 1981, 1982)

  - NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1981)

  - Led the Bengals to Super Bowl XVI

  - Led the NFL in passer rating four times (1974, 1975, 1981, 1982)

  - Passed for 32,838 yards and 197 touchdowns with a passer rating of 81.9

Hall of Fame Case:

  - Anderson was one of the most accurate and efficient passers of his era.

  - His 1981 MVP season was one of the best by a quarterback in the early 1980s, leading the Bengals to their first Super Bowl appearance.

  - Anderson's career passer rating was among the best of his time, and his completion percentage ranks high historically.

  - His innovation in the short passing game helped pave the way for modern passing offenses.

Corey Dillon

Teams: Cincinnati Bengals (1997-2003), New England Patriots (2004-2006)

Career Highlights:

  - Four-time Pro Bowler (1999, 2000, 2001, 2004)

  - Super Bowl Champion (XXXIX)

  - Set the then-NFL single-game rushing record with 278 yards (2000)

  - Rushed for 11,241 yards and 82 touchdowns in his career

Hall of Fame Case:

  - Dillon's career rushing yards place him in the top 20 all-time.

  - His single-game rushing record stood for six years and remains one of the top performances in NFL history.

  - Dillon was a key player in the Patriots' 2004 Super Bowl run, providing balance to their offense.

  - His consistency and ability to perform at a high level on both struggling and successful teams showcase his talent and versatility.

Tim Krumrie

Team: Cincinnati Bengals (1983-1994)

Career Highlights:

  - Two-time Pro Bowler (1987, 1988)

  - Played in Super Bowl XXIII

  - Recorded 34 sacks and 13 fumble recoveries

  - Known for his toughness

Hall of Fame Case:

  - Krumrie was a dominant force in the middle of the Bengals' defensive line for over a decade.

  - His toughness and durability, epitomized by his quick return from a devastating leg injury, made him a respected figure in the NFL.

  - Krumrie's leadership and performance were crucial in the Bengals' successful seasons in the late 1980s.

  - Krumrie is the only defensive lineman with at least 600 combined tackles during the 1980s

Great Games in Browns History: A Night to Remember - Cleveland Browns' Victory Over the Dallas Cowboys on Monday Night Football

The late 1970s were tumultuous times for Cleveland. The city had recently faced one of its most challenging periods, culminating in 1978 with a financial crisis that led to Cleveland becoming the first major American city to default on its debts since the Great Depression. The once-thriving industrial hub was grappling with a declining manufacturing base, increasing unemployment, and a tarnished national image following the infamous Cuyahoga River fire in 1969.

Despite these hardships, Clevelanders displayed an unwavering spirit. The city was on a mission to rebuild its reputation and regain its footing. Amidst this backdrop of economic struggle and civic determination, sports provided a vital outlet for communal pride and joy. The Cleveland Browns, with their storied history and passionate fanbase, became a beacon of hope.

On September 24, 1979, Cleveland Browns fans packed Cleveland Municipal Stadium, creating an electric atmosphere for a highly anticipated Monday Night Football showdown against the formidable Dallas Cowboys. The game was not just a contest between two NFL teams; it was a moment of unity and defiance for a city eager to demonstrate its resilience.

The Game Unfolds

From the opening whistle, it was clear that this game would be a thriller. The Cowboys, led by quarterback Roger Staubach, came in as one of the league's elite teams. But the Browns, under the leadership of head coach Sam Rutigliano and quarterback Brian Sipe, were ready for the challenge.

The game started with both teams testing each other's defenses, but it wasn't long before the Browns made a statement. The defining moment of the first half came when Brian Sipe connected with Ozzie Newsome on a long touchdown pass. Newsome, a future Hall of Famer, showcased his athleticism and hands, sprinting past the Cowboys' secondary and into the end zone. This play electrified the crowd and set the tone for the rest of the game.

By halftime, the Browns had the game firmly under control, leading 20-7. The crowd, numbering over 83,000, was ecstatic, sensing a significant victory on the horizon.

Dominance in the Second Half

The second half saw the Browns maintaining their dominance. The defense played with ferocity, keeping the Cowboys' offense in check and preventing any substantial comeback attempts. Meanwhile, the offense continued to execute effectively, adding crucial points to extend their lead.

The atmosphere in Cleveland Municipal Stadium was electric. Fans, buoyed by the team's performance, created a deafening roar that reverberated throughout the city. Every tackle, every pass, and every yard gained was met with cheers of approval from the loyal supporters.

The Victory and Its Meaning

The Browns secured a convincing 26-7 victory over the Cowboys, a result that resonated deeply with the fans and the city. The win was not just a triumph on the football field; it was a symbolic victory for Cleveland itself. It provided a much-needed morale boost to a city that had faced numerous challenges and setbacks.

For the fans, the victory was a testament to their unwavering support and belief in their team. It was a night that transcended sports, providing a sense of pride and accomplishment that extended beyond the stadium. The Browns' victory became a rallying point, a reminder that despite the economic and social challenges, Clevelanders could still stand tall and proud.

A Legacy of Hope and Resilience

The 1979 Monday Night Football game between the Cleveland Browns and the Dallas Cowboys remains one of the most cherished memories in the history of the franchise. It exemplified the spirit of a city and its people, resilient in the face of adversity and united in their love for their team.

As Cleveland continued its journey towards recovery and revitalization, the Browns' victory served as a beacon of hope, reminding everyone that even in the darkest times, there are moments of brilliance and triumph that can lift an entire community.

The Top 5 Gambling Scandals in NFL History

With sports gambling now legalized across much of the USA and NFL owners now actively promoting and profiting from gambling, look for more scandals to erupt in the coming seasons.   For now here is a list of the top 5 gambling scandals in NFL history:

Gambling scandals have marred the reputation of the NFL on several occasions. Here are the top five gambling scandals in NFL history, along with some notable players who have been suspended for gambling:

Top 5 Gambling Scandals in NFL History

1. Paul Hornung and Alex Karras (1963)

   - Scandal: Hall of Famer Paul Hornung of the Green Bay Packers and defensive tackle Alex Karras of the Detroit Lions were suspended for the entire 1963 season for betting on NFL games and associating with known gamblers.

   - Outcome: Both players were reinstated for the 1964 season after showing remorse and cooperating with the league.

2. Art Schlichter (1983)

   - Scandal: Art Schlichter, a quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts, was suspended indefinitely for gambling on NFL games during the 1982 season.

   - Outcome:** Schlichter was reinstated in 1984 but struggled with gambling addiction throughout his life, leading to further legal troubles and suspensions.

3. Josh Shaw (2019)

   - Scandal: Arizona Cardinals' cornerback Josh Shaw was suspended indefinitely after it was discovered he had bet on NFL games, including betting against his own team.

   - Outcome: Shaw was suspended through at least the 2020 season, marking the first NFL player suspension for gambling in over 35 years.

4. Calvin Ridley (2022)

   - Scandal: Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Calvin Ridley was suspended for at least the entire 2022 season after an investigation revealed he had placed bets on NFL games during a period when he was away from the team.

   - Outcome: Ridley admitted to the wrongdoing and was eligible for reinstatement after the 2022 season.

5. Isaiah Rodgers, Rashod Berry, and Demetrius Taylor (2023)

   - Scandal: Colts players Isaiah Rodgers and Rashod Berry, along with free agent Demetrius Taylor, were suspended indefinitely for betting on NFL games during the 2022 season. 

   - Outcome: They were suspended through at least the end of the 2023 season, continuing the NFL's strict stance on gambling violations.

Browns Raiders Playoff Game 1980 - Parallel Universe

There must be a parallel universe where the below story came true:

On a cold, blustery day in Cleveland, the Browns faced the Oakland Raiders in the AFC Divisional playoff game. The score stood at 14-12 in favor of the Raiders. With the ball on the Oakland 13-yard line and just seconds left on the clock, Browns quarterback Brian Sipe huddled with his team, ready to execute the "Red Right 88" play.

As the huddle broke, Sipe took one last look at the defense. He noticed something unusual: the Raiders seemed to be heavily guarding against the pass. Trusting his instincts, he called an audible at the line of scrimmage.

"Mike, take the handoff," Sipe whispered to running back Mike Pruitt. "We're switching to a run."

The ball was snapped, and Sipe handed it off to Pruitt. With a burst of power and speed, Pruitt shot through a gap in the Raiders' defensive line, evading one tackle and then another. The crowd roared as he crossed the goal line, scoring the winning touchdown. The Browns won 19-14 and advanced to the AFC Championship game.

The following week, the Browns faced the San Diego Chargers. The Chargers' high-powered offense, led by quarterback Dan Fouts, was formidable, but the Browns were ready. Sipe orchestrated a balanced attack, mixing runs and passes to keep the Chargers' defense off-balance. Mike Pruitt continued his stellar play, contributing crucial yards on the ground and catching passes out of the backfield.

In the final minutes, with the game tied at 24-24, Sipe led the Browns down the field. As the clock ticked down, kicker Don Cockroft nailed a 38-yard field goal to secure a 27-24 victory, sending the Browns to their first Super Bowl.

Super Bowl XV in New Orleans saw the Browns face the Philadelphia Eagles. The Eagles boasted a tough defense, but Brian Sipe was undeterred. From the first snap, he was in the zone, dissecting the Eagles' secondary with pinpoint precision.

Sipe's first touchdown pass came on a deep post route to Reggie Rucker, putting the Browns up early. His second found tight end Ozzie Newsome in the corner of the end zone. As the game progressed, Sipe continued to spread the ball around, finding his receivers in stride and exploiting mismatches.

By halftime, the Browns led 21-10. The Eagles fought back, but Sipe remained unflappable. He threw his third touchdown to Dave Logan on a quick slant, then followed it up with a 25-yard strike to Mike Pruitt, who had snuck out of the backfield. Finally, with the game all but decided, Sipe threw his fifth touchdown pass to Keith Wright, cementing the Browns' victory.

Sipe finished the game with over 400 yards passing and five touchdowns, earning Super Bowl MVP honors. The Browns triumphed 38-24, capturing their first Super Bowl title. The city of Cleveland erupted in celebration, honoring their heroes who had defied the odds and rewritten history. Brian Sipe, with his quick thinking and leadership, had guided the Browns to the pinnacle of football glory.

Getting in Bed with the Devil: The NFL and Gambling

The percentage of NFL revenues derived from gambling is currently estimated to be a relatively small portion of the total income. In 2023, the NFL received around $132 million from gambling-related sponsorships, including partnerships with major sports betting companies like Caesars Entertainment, DraftKings, and FanDuel. This figure is expected to grow significantly, with projections suggesting that legalized sports betting could eventually generate over $2.3 billion annually for the NFL.

Given that the NFL's total annual revenue exceeds $18 billion, gambling revenue currently constitutes less than 1% of its total earnings. However, as the sports betting market continues to expand and more states legalize sports betting, this percentage is likely to increase.

The Brown BLog plan to do a deeper dive on this in the coming months.