Browns Beat Packers As NFL Preseason Gets Underway

A win is a win, but preseason is preseason. The Browns beat the Packers at Cleveland Browns Stadium by a score of 27-17. The high-powered first-string offense of the Packers made only a brief appearance in the first quarter, as would be expected in the first preseason game. While on the field, the Packer offense was outshined by the Browns offense led by the "quarterback controversy is over" Colt McCoy. The big question mark of the Browns offense, the wide receiver position, may have found the answer.

Shurmur and his West Coast offense made use of an asset that has been there all along at wide receiver. Joshua Cribbs hauled in a 27 yard TD pass from Colt McCoy in the beginning stages of the Packer game. This is something I have adamantly suggested year after year for the answer to incorporating a long ball threat into the offense, Joshua Cribbs at wide receiver. In the past, Cribbs has only been used sparingly in that position.

While it is good to have an excellent kick-punt returner who can give you good field position, which Cribbs has done, it is even more vital to have an offense that can consistently put the ball across the goal line. I look forward to seeing more of Cribbs running patterns and chasing down McCoy passes.

The season of NFL football is under way and the Browns are off to a positive start. Alot has to be answered before the Browns can say they are a legitimate contender. Colt McCoy has secured the quarterback position and is looking like the leader the offense needs. Everything else is a wait and see. Still, the Browns could very well surprise us this coming regular season, but then, any surprise in the positive direction is welcomed with open arms by fans who have been disappointed for too many years.