Johnny Manziel stresses that he simply wants to play. He got that opportunity in Week 13 against the Arizona Cardinals and escalated a long scoring drive that saved a shutout, but will be headed back to the bench in Week 14. Manziel thought he stood a chance at getting the nod against the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday, but head coach Mike Pettine told the media that Brian Hoyer gives them the best shot at winning which has Manziel possibly seeking change of scenery.
"Whoever puts us in the best position to win week after week, I trust Coach Pettine with that decision, and that's all anybody in this locker room wants," Manziel said, via ESPN.com. "All this is going to do is motivate me to come in here to work every day, come to practice and continue to try to elevate my game to where next time there's a situation like this, there's no doubt."
According to Manziel, he wants to turn the no into a yes when it comes to starting. The backup quarterback has remained on the sidelines despite all of the preseason hype surrounding him and says that he is simply just eager to get on the field and play. However, Hoyer is 7-5 as a starter and keeping the Browns in playoff contention. Pettine is not looking to take the risk just yet, still remaining faithful in the veteran quarterback's abilities despite his struggles recently.
"After thorough evaluation and talking to the staff, we feel Brian gives us the best opportunity to win on Sunday," Pettine said. "This is a football decision and those are always going to be based on what we think is best for our team. Brian has led our team to a 7-5 record. I'm confident that we can get the entire offense playing at the level needed to accomplish the goals we set at the beginning of the season. Those goals are still very much attainable."
Hoyer will be on a very short leash. Despite the return of Josh Gordon, the quarterback has tossed more interceptions than touchdown passes in recent weeks. If that trend continues against the Colts, he will get pulled. Manziel is looking for a chance to audition. He is aiming to prove that he can either be a part of the long-term plans for the Browns or another team if a move is made.
If Hoyer can get Cleveland into the postseason, the chances are great that he re-signs in free agency. That does not necessarily mean that Manziel will be traded as a result, but Cleveland would be doing Hoyer a disservice by keeping him around. Teams like the Dallas Cowboys, New York Jets and Houston Texans would all be eyeing a move for Manziel if available, something the next few weeks will determine.
