Rodgers is among the best players in the league, and an argument can be made that he is its best active quarterback. He can make any throw, rarely makes bad decisions and always keeps the Packers competitive. That said, not enough recognition is given to his offensive line, which gives him a ridiculous amount of time to throw the football.
During the game, the broadcast focused on this, putting a timer on Rodgers’ time in a clean pocket. He was routinely getting more than three seconds before he even had to worry about potential pressure. His offensive line certainly made his job easier on Monday and allowed him an opportunity to complete all those beautiful throws.
Anyway, the point remains that if the Browns had gotten anything out of their quarterback position on Sunday they would still be in the hunt for the AFC North crown. But my opinion didn’t change just because Hoyer has been turrible the last few games. I also recognize the unique talents that Manziel possesses and understand how they can help the Browns possibly catch fire on offense and run the table to end the season.
The Browns have the Bengals at home and then road games against the Panthers and Ravens. It’s a safe bet that the Browns will have to score more than 21 points to win any of those games. As I said when I talked about why Mike Vick should replace Geno Smith a few weeks back, Manziel is a weapon unto himself, and that’s why I believe the Browns can score 21 and much more with him behind the center.
With Manziel, pass protection doesn’t have to be perfect, receivers don’t have to be wide open (or in marathon shape), the running game doesn’t even have to be clicking. He can get positive yards up and down the field by himself all game long when everything else breaks down. If the Browns can some how manage him well enough so that he isn’t turning the ball over, Manziel can be the kind of weapon that opposing defenses won’t be able to catch up with their first time seeing him. It’s the perfect time to spring him on unsuspecting defenses that are used to chasing statues in the pocket.