Do the Browns really have a chance to go through the preseason winless? Of course. Would that really be a bad thing? Of course not.
The Browns last went winless in the preseason in 1972 when they finished 0-6. They went on to go 10-4 in the regular season only to lose to the undefeated Miami Dolphins in the first round of the playoffs.
Sure, there's something to be said about winning at least one game, but that's not what the Browns need to show. So what do they need to show? Onto the preview!
What to watch for:
- The play of the first team is the most critical thing in this game. While the last game had a close score, the first team offense and defense was terrible. It's tough to quantify who exactly needs to look good, though, because there are so many injuries.
Again, there will be no Derek Anderson, Joshua Cribbs, Braylon Edwards or Jamal Lewis on offense. Brodney Pool, Sean Jones and Willie McGinest won't play on defense.
So with all the injuries, the offensive line and defensive front seven should be under the microscope tonight. The defensive front seven will especially have to play better against the run.
- Tonight, the bubble will burst for several players. Receivers Syndric Steptoe, Lance Leggett, Travis Wilson, Efrem Hill and Paul Hubbard need to show something. The same can be said for defensive backs Gerard Lawson, A.J. Davis, Brandon Mitchell and Travis Key.
- The most enjoyable part of the preseason has been watching the development of seventh round draft pick Alex Hall. He should start his second straight game tonight in place of the injured McGinest and the mostly awful David McMillan.
Also see:
Chicago Sun Times: Staying healthy is key to final tuneup
Chicago Tribune: Last exhibition represents last chance for some Bears
Akron Beacon Journal: Browns' safety shines in media's spotlight