At this moment it is unknown who will be the starting quarterback of the Cleveland Browns. Josh McCown is injured. Johnny Manziel is facing discipline from the league. Head coach Mike Pettine is not giving any hints as to who will be under center in Week 8 as the team takes on the Arizona Cardinals. With Manziel getting starter reps and McCown not needing much practice to be on the field, it remains a mystery for Cleveland.
According to Pat McManamon of ESPN, Manziel got starter reps in practice with McCown nursing a shoulder injury. However, Pettine noted that for McCown to get on the field, he would not need that much practice time before hand.
"With Josh, if it were a second- or third-year quarterback without the reps, I would be a little bit more concerned, but Josh has had almost all the one reps since training camp, so that doesn't concern me too much," offensive coordinator John DeFilippo said, via ESPN.com.
That likely means McCown will be getting on the field for Week 8 as the Browns firmly believe he is their best shot at beating Arizona. With Manziel still being investigated by the NFL, the Browns have to remain hopeful that McCown can get on the field as the future of the backup quarterback is unknown. Pettine told the media that the NFL is trying to move quickly with the situation while McCown gets needed rest to return to the field.
"It absolutely does help when you can get rest and allow your body to heal," McCown said, via Cleveland.com. "Taking a day off certainly helps. There are only so many days you have to rest the thing, but we've done everything we can as far as treatment these last few days. Hopefully, I'll feel better and play."
McCown could have a new wide receiver to throw to on the field in Week 8. According to ESPN, Andrew Hawkins is dealing with a concussion that will leave him out. In his place, Dwayne Bowe is expected to see his first bit of action after being a healthy scratch for the team. Pettine has been critical of Bowe and this is his only chance to really prove that he is worth the contract given to him. McCown will likely work the run game with Duke Johnson as a critical part of the offense. Robert Turbin could also have a big game. Gary Barnidge and Travis Benjamin will be the main receiving threats, but playing the top Arizona secondary means they must play their best game.