Quote:
Originally Posted by Redsfaithful
This was the easy part of the schedule and they just lost to an 0-5 team.
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Absolutely true, BUT.....
Most of you know me on here, and you know that even though I've been an avid (and some say "delusional" Brown's fan) for almost 45 years, I not only root for the Bengals.... but also tell it like it is when it comes to an honest and pretty straightforward assessment of the Browns. Especially since they came back into the league. At work I even catch crap from a couple rabid Brown fans who tell me I'm not a "true" fan because of my "negative" assessments, meaning, I don't rah-rah them and always say positive things. I'm a realist.
They've been a cluster you-know-what from the top of this organization, right down to the bottom. They acquire some talent, but somehow refuse (or can't) address the other areas needed to bring some sense of stability and competitiveness to this franchise.
As for that 0-5 record - that really doesn't tell the whole story though IMO. That's like solely relying on a pitcher's W-L record. Incomplete picture. Yeah, this team, so far early on, has found ways to lose. And at numerous times has shot themselves in the foot. That's been the M.O. for quite some time. But this roster (other then at QB obviously) is the youngest in the NFL. And while there is some darn good talent there, their "immaturity" was very evident those first few weeks in the penalties and mistakes they made. They were penalized for 110 yds vs the Eagles, 103 yds vs the first match-up vs the Bengals.
But I was impressed with their games vs the Eagles (should have won that one) and Baltimore. They have been competitive, and really aren't getting blown out. That 41-27 loss to the Giants was the biggest margin.
And over these last few weeks, regardless of the final scores, I've seen some improvement (and hope), especially from this offense. QB Weeden has had his growing pains, made his mistakes, but this guy is learning and coming on IMO. Our O-line is pretty solid. And I love our RB's in Richardson, Hardesty, and Ogbonnaya. These are physical RB's who have good hands. When I look at the dismal offenses of the Browns over the last few years, and their offensive inabilities, I like what I am starting to see from this current team. They can strike quickly, and put points on the board.
The defense obviously needs to get better; but we've had some very key injuries there, as well as a suspension. Getting Haden and Ward back will be a big boost.
No, this team, IMO, probably ain't gonna make it to .500. But I think they're going to get better.
You guys got Pittsburgh coming to Cincy next week. IMO, you can beat these guys.
On a different note... a loud-mouth co-worker (Steeler fan) made over $600 worth of bets at work saying the Browns wouldn't win a division game this year. He'll be getting his checkbook out today.
