Rule of thumb in the NFL: Expect the unexpected.
On Friday, Johnny Manziel was running the scout team offense at practice and quizzing Josh McCown on last minute game prep.
On Sunday, McCown left the game abruptly with a concussion and Manziel found himself on the field at MetLife Stadium trying to create magic in a disappointing 31-10 season-opening loss to the New York Jets.
The taste in Cleveland’s mouth will be bitter when the team watches film together Monday. The formula equivalent to 10 points plus four turnovers on offense typically results in losing.
Manziel will take the brunt of the blame in that area. The quarterback’s 13-for-24 completion total and 182 yards after coming in cold off the bench are something the Browns can work with. Two fourth quarter fumbles and an interception are not.
It was the pick, in particular, that peeved Manziel the most as he reflected with an occasional sigh during his post-game press conference. Only trailing 14-10 early in the third quarter, the Browns were still very much in the game.
After two first downs to start the half, the Browns found themselves nearing midfield. On third-and-8, Manziel located Brian Hartline gaining separation on his route. But as the wide receiver cut toward the left sideline, Manziel fired the pass to the wrong shoulder and into the hands of Jets cornerback Marcus Williams. Six plays later, Brandon Marshall was dancing in the end zone for the Jets.
“Little things that hindered us and nagged us throughout the day,” Manziel said, “that I think finally in the second half caught up to us a little bit.”
“He’s got to be more protective of the ball,” coach Mike Pettine said. “We can’t turn the ball over and expect to win, so that’s something he’s got to get better control over.”
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