Both Kent State and Akron basketball load up with plenty of home games for this season.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Both Akron and Kent State released their basketball schedules for this season Wednesday afternoon, and both are loaded with home games.

Along with the nine scheduled Mid-American Conference games, the Zips will play eight non-conference games at Rhodes Arena. The feature game in that bunch will be a Dec. 30 tipoff against Marshall from Conference USA.

Kent's seven-game, non-conference home slate includes the season-opening Men Against Breast Cancer Tournament, which includes Southern Illinois out of the Missouri Valley Conference.

Both the Zips and Golden Flashes will be strongly tested on the road. The Zips are in line to play USC and possibly Miami (Fla.) in the Charleston Classic Tournament plus a road game at Penn State.

Kent State, with a first round win over North Dakota State, will play on the road against the likes of host UTEP in the Sun Bowl Tournament in El Paso, Texas, and later at traditional Top 10 Kansas.

The first of two traditional rivalry games between the two teams will be later than usual, Feb. 10 at Akron, along with the final MAC game of the season, March 6 at Kent.

Here are the full schedules for Akron and Kent State.

Former Steelers running back and current ESPN analyst Merril Hoge ripped Johnny Manziel on the radio today, saying he's a 'juvenile punk' and will be out the league soon.

BEREA, Ohio -- Former Steelers running back Merril Hoge lit into Johnny Manziel Wednesday morning, following former Bengals quarterback Boomer Esiason in saying the rookie quarterback doesn't belong on the same field as the Steelers.

"If you're the  Steelers' defense, you want No. 2 (Manziel) to walk out on that field," Hoge, the ESPN analyst, told Pittsburgh radio station WDVE-FM Wednesday morning. "You want him on that field. He has no business being on the field right now."

Hoge, who also ripped former Heisman Trophy Winner Tim Tebow when he was in vogue, doesn't view Manziel as a legitimate NFL quarterback. "This is the one thing that probably burns me more about our league, the NFL, than anything is when a player like Johnny Manziel is drafted based on hype and excitement, not a true football skill. He really had no business being drafted in the first round.''

Hoge took exception to Manziel texting quarterbacks coach Dowell Loggains during the draft and declaring "we'll wreck this league.''

"That didn't just burn players; it infuriates coaches," Hoge said. "It told you, too, that he's a juvenile punk. He was like that, and he's still like that.''

He predicted a hasty exit for Manziel from the NFL, similar to that of Tebow.

"This will be the saddest, quickest ending we have seen in quite some time," Hoge said. "It'll be like a Tim Tebow (situation)."

Manziel was aware of Hoge's remarks, but unfazed.

"Stuff pops up on my phone and I happened to see something," Manziel said Wednesday.  "He's been in the opposite corner of me for a while now, so all I can really do is go out and try to prove him wrong. He's entitled to every bit of his opinion."

Hoge, who criticized Manziel's arm after watching some preseason tape, doesn't think the former Texas A&M product will be successful in the NFL.

"When I was doing the draft and I was going through and studying him, I actually got done and it was the first time other than Tim Tebow came out and I was like, 'God, there is nothing — nothing that he does — that transitions to the National Football League.'

"There's not one skillset that he had that you're like, 'Gosh, he's a first-rounder.' Really, nothing."

Browns coach Mike Pettine discounted Hoge's opinion.

"Where did he play?'' Pettine said. "I just know that in the age that we're in of sensationalism, a lot of times people that want to be heard have to make bold statements in order to bring attention to themselves. I think that's something that's a regular occurrence in this league."

Added Hoge, "If you're the Steelers, you want him on the field. You really do. (Brian) Hoyer, listen, he didn't shine and he's nothing special, but he's a lot more dangerous than Johnny Manziel."

Here are the starting lineups and the pitching matchup for Thursday's series finale between the Indians and Tigers.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Here are the starting lineups and the pitching matchup for Thursday's series finale between the Indians and Tigers.

Pitching matchup: Trevor Bauer (5-7, 3.99 ERA) vs. Max Scherzer (15-5, 3.26 ERA)

Lineups

Indians

1. CF Michael Bourn

2. SS Jose Ramirez

3. LF Michael Brantley

4. 1B Carlos Santana

5. 2B Jason Kipnis

6. C Yan Gomes

7. 3B Lonnie Chisenhall

8. DH Zach Walters

9. RF Tyler Holt

Tigers

1. 2B Ian Kinsler

2. RF Tyler Collins

3. DH Miguel Cabrera

4. 1B Victor Martinez

5. LF J.D. Martinez

6. 3B Nick Castellanos

7. C Bryan Holaday

8. SS Hernan Perez

9. CF Rajai Davis 

Was there anything to learn from Ohio State's win against Navy? How did J.T. Barrett play in his first college game? Ohio State beat reporter Doug Lesmerises answered those questions and more during today's podcast.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Was there anything to learn from Ohio State's win against Navy? How did J.T. Barrett play in his first college game? 

Cleveland.com's Ohio State beat reporter Doug Lesmerises answered those questions and more during today's podcast with cleveland.com’s Chris Fedor.

Among other topics discussed:

• How much of a challenge will Virginia Tech be?

• Which player is most important in Saturday night's game?

You can download the MP3 or listen with the player to the right.

Johnny Manziel files for a trademark for the nickname Johnny Cleveland.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The template for Johnny Manziel nicknames is not a difficult one. First name + sport. First name + city. First name + team. This isn't hard, people.

According to a report from ESPN.com's Darren Rovell (with a h/t to WaitingForNextYear.com for bringing this to our attention), Manziel is quickly moving to trademark as much as he can, including Johnny Cleveland.

"Records with the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office (USPTO) show that last month, Manziel's company, JMan2 Enterprises LLC, filed for the moniker with the intention to use it on athletic apparel and footwear."

Manziel reportedly isn't the only one trying to capitalize on his name.

"The filing comes after two people, who filed for the mark, were denied by the government entity on the basis of the belief that the name was tied to Manziel, who had not given his approval."

Long story short, if you have a Manziel nickname in mind, JMan2 Enterprises LLC probably has their eyes on it, too.

(ESPN: Manziel files for 10th trademark)

Pete Carroll and his Seattle Seahawks will rule the NFL again this season.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Remember when college coaches couldn't make the jump to the NFL? If Jimmy Johnson didn't give the raspberry to that in Dallas a generation ago, Pete Carroll is now in Seattle.

The Seahawks can run the ball effectively despite the passing mania in most cities. Carroll threw the QB competition open and gave it to a rookie who actually played better than the old hands (the winner was Russell Wilson, who won last year's Super Bowl in his second season). And has the league's best defense.

It's a perfect storm. Get used to it, too. Seattle is going to be good for a while -- although hardly as long as the Browns have been bad.

Playoffs

AFC

East Division champion
New England Patriots

North Division champion
Pittsburgh Steelers

South Division champion
Indianapolis Colts

West Division champion
Denver Broncos

Wild-card teams
Baltimore Ravens, San Diego Chargers

NFC

East Division champion
New York Giants

North Division champion
Green Bay Packers

South Division champion
New Orleans Saints

West Division champion
Seattle Seahawks

Wild-card teams

San Francisco 49ers, Philadelphia Eagles

AFC Championship

Indianapolis Colts over Denver Broncos

NFC Championship

Seattle Seahawks over Green Bay Packers

Super Bowl, Feb. 1, 2015, Glendale, Ariz.

Seattle Seahawks over Indianapolis Colts

Awards

NFL Most Valuable Player

Phillip Rivers, San Diego Chargers

NFL Coach of Year

Pete Carroll, Seattle Seahawks

NFL Offensive Rookie of Year

Mike Evans, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

NFL Defensive Rookie of Year

Khalil Mack, Oakland Raiders

The Seattle Seahawks are Bud Shaw's pick to win another Super Bowl.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The Cincinnati Bengals will be the cream of the AFC North. It's just not much of a crop.

The surprise wild-card team in the AFC will somehow have persevered without the team-building skills of Richie Incognito.

The most impressive division winner in the regular season will be the Philadelphia Eagles, led by The Most Interesting Coach in the League. Or -- as Chip Kelly is known in Cleveland -- The One Who Got Away. In the end, Seattle goes back-to-back as Super Bowl champs. And Denver goes back-to-back as the team Seattle owns.

Read on for more predictions:

Playoffs

AFC

East Division champion
New England Patriots

North Division champion
Cincinnati Bengals

South Division champion
Indianapolis Colts

West Division champion
Denver Broncos

Wild-card teams
Miami Dolphins, Kansas City Chiefs

NFC

East Division champion
Philadelphia Eagles

North Division champion
Green Bay Packers

South Division champion
New Orleans Saints

West Division champion
Seattle Seahawks

Wild-card teams
San Francisco 49ers, Detroit Lions

AFC Championship
Denver over New England

NFC Championship
Seattle over New Orleans

Super Bowl, Feb. 1, 2015, Glendale, Ariz.
Seattle over Denver

Awards

NFL Most Valuable Player
Peyton Manning, Denver Broncos

NFL Coach of the Year
Chip Kelly, Philadelphia Eagles

NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year
Brandin Cooks, New Orleans Saints

NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year
Jadeveon Clowney, Houston Texans
 

This is a huge year Drew Brees and Saints.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The Cleveland Browns have a three-game gauntlet to open the season that includes division foes Pittsburgh and Baltimore, along with the Super Bowl champions.

At least that's the way it looks from here. The New Orleans Saints will surprise and win the Super Bowl this season. QB Drew Brees will win the league MVP award and lead the Saints over Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos in the Super Bowl.

Here's my forecast:

Playoffs

AFC

East Division champion
New England Patriots

North Division champion
Cincinnati Bengals

South Division champion
Indianapolis Colts

West Division champion
Denver Broncos

Wild-card teams
San Diego Chargers, Pittsburgh Steelers

NFC

East Division champion
Philadelphia Eagles

North Division champion
Green Bay Packers

South Division champion
New Orleans Saints

West Division champion
Seattle Seahawks

Wild-card teams
Chicago Bears, San Francisco 49ers

AFC Championship
Denver over New England

NFC Championship
New Orleans over Seattle

Super Bowl, Feb. 1, 2015 Glendale, Ariz.
New Orleans over Denver

Awards
NFL Most Valuable Player
Drew Brees, New Orleans Saints

NFL Coach of the Year
Sean Payton, New Orleans Saints

NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year
Brandin Cooks, New Orleans Saints

NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year
Jadeveon Clowney, Houston Texans

Will the Seattle Seahawks repeat as Super Bowl Champions?

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- This season, the Seattle Seahawks will become the first back-to-back Super Bowl Champions since the 2004 and 2005 New England Patriots.

Despite the pass-happy NFL, and constant rule changes to help the offense, the Seahawks' defense will prove too much for the Indianapolis Colts.

The Cincinnati Bengals will be the biggest surprise as they will fall from the favorite to win the division to barely advancing to the playoffs as a wild card.

Andrew Luck will take over as the top quarterback in the league.

Here's my predictions:

Playoffs

AFC

East Division champion

New England Patriots

North Division champion

Pittsburgh Steelers

South Division champion

Indianapolis Colts

West Division champion

Denver Broncos

Wild-card teams

Cincinnati Bengals, Kansas City Chiefs

NFC

East Division champion

Philadelphia Eagles

North Division champion

Green Bay Packers

South Division champion

New Orleans Saints

West Division champion

Seattle Seahawks

Wild-card teams

Detroit Lions, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

AFC Championship

Seattle Seahawks over Green Bay Packers

NFC Championship

Indianapolis Colts over New England Patriots

Super Bowl, Feb. 1, 2015, Glendale, Ariz.

Seattle Seahawks over Indianapolis Colts

Awards

NFL Most Valuable Player

Andrew Luck, Indianapolis Colts

NFL Coach of the Year

Lovie Smith, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year

Brandin Cooks, New Orleans Saints

NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year

Khalil Mack, Oakland Raiders

In a Super Bowl rematch, the Broncos pay back the Seahawks, Dennis Manoloff predicts.

BEREA, Ohio -- The NFC is stacked.

The defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks will be nasty again, but they have work to do to repeat as conference titlists because the San Francisco 49ers, Green Bay Packers, New Orleans Saints and Philadelphia Eagles are formidable. The Chicago Bears can't be overlooked, either.

One NFC entry guaranteed not to be a factor is (supposedly) America's Team, the Dallas Cowboys. The Cowboys' streak of 8-8 seasons ends at three with a truly comical fall to 3-13.

The AFC is not stacked.

The Denver Broncos and New England Patriots are worthy title contenders, but the conference underbelly is soft. The Broncos were embarrassed by the Seahawks in the Super Bowl, got the message and have come back with a much better defense. The Patriots are dangerous as long as Bill Belichick is on the sideline and Tom Brady is under center.

Here are my 2014 NFL predictions:

Playoffs

AFC

East Division champion

New England Patriots

North Division champion

Baltimore Ravens

South Division champion

Indianapolis Colts

West Division champion

Denver Broncos

Wild-card teams

Pittsburgh Steelers, San Diego Chargers

NFC

East Division champion

Philadelphia Eagles

North Division champion

Green Bay Packers

South Division champion

New Orleans Saints

West Division champion

Seattle Seahawks

Wild-card teams

San Francisco 49ers, Chicago Bears

AFC Championship

Denver over New England

NFC Championship

Seattle over Green Bay

Super Bowl

Denver over Seattle

Awards

NFL Most Valuable Player

Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers

NFL Coach of the Year

John Fox, Denver Broncos

NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year

Derek Carr, Oakland Raiders

NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year

Jadeveon Clowney, Houston Texans

It has taken decades and almost $100 million, but the Ashtabula River cleanup has been completed. Now it's time to consider making the industrial waterway into a great destination for steelhead trout fishing.

CLEVELAND, Ohio – It has taken decades and almost $100 million, but the Ashtabula River cleanup has been completed. Now it's time to convert the former industrial waterway into a great destination for steelhead trout fishing.

"The Ashtabula River habitat has been improved and the stigma of the Ashtabula being a river of concern has been removed," said Kevin Kayle, head of the Fairport Harbor Fisheries Unit for the Ohio Division of Wildlife. "Our strategic plan calls for steelhead trout stockings. The determining factor will be the number of yearling steelhead trout we can raise at the Castalia State Fish Hatchery.

"If we do begin to release yearling trout there in spring, we want to make sure we have the capacity to stock trout on a regular basis. We do not want to short-change the fishery in the future."

The Ashtabula River received trout transfusions the last two years, but Kayle doesn't expect much from the 79,039 trout released last fall and the 31,564 cut loose in 2012 in Ashtabula Harbor. Those trout had only grown to about three inches in length and were released early because the Castalia Hatchery had too many trout in its raceways.

Each spring, the ODOW releases about 400,000 yearling steelhead trout in the 7.5-inch range in the Rocky, Vermilion, Chagrin and Grand rivers and Conneaut Creek. Those trout are an inch longer than the trout released just a few years ago, said Kayle. The bigger the trout, the much better chance the fish will survive, grow large and return to their natal rivers.

Ohio's steelhead trout program has been wildly successful. Adding the Ashtabula River to the traditional five steelhead trout streams now stocked will be a major benefit for the area. With excellent Lake Erie yellow perch and walleye fishing there in summer, the trout program could make Ashtabula a year-round place to go fishing.

Going to the dogs: The All-Breed Hunter's Trials for local sportsmen and their bird hunting dogs are back in action around Northeast Ohio. The trials for the pointing and flushing breeds have become a Sunday tradition for almost a half-century. Held fall through spring, the trial circuit culminates March 28 with the Invitational Winner's Trial at Pine Crest Hunting Preserve in New London.

All of the trials are listed in the Outdoor Calendar at cleveland.com/outdoors, and at hunterstrial.com, which also lists trial rules. The next trial is Sunday at the Crooked Creek Conservation Club in Hartsgrove. Other clubs hosting the trials are: South Cuyahoga Sportsmen's Association in Chatham; Wayne Coon Hunters Club in Wooster; Hinckley's Cuyahoga Coon Hunters; Columbia Game Club in Sullivan; and R & G Ventures in Hinckley.

The trials are a good test of both hunter and dog, and a wonderful spectator sport.

USSA Heritage Rally: The Columbus-based U.S. Sportsmen's Alliance, a lobbying group for America's anglers and hunters, is featuring Girls with Guns stars Norissa Harman and Jen Adams at this year's Save Our Heritage Rally at Aladdin Shrine Center in Columbus on Sept. 20. The banquet also has live auctions, gun raffles and exhibits. Tickets are $50. Visit ussportsmen.org or call 614-888-4868. B & N Coal is sponsoring the rally's $10,000 top prize.

Hunting Film Tour on Sept. 25: the 2^nd annual Hunting Film Tour is making a stop at the Chagrin Valley Little Theatre in Chagrin Falls on Sept. 25. This year's show has nine segments ranging from bowhunting to waterfowling, including high-powered and black powder rifle hunts, said local director Amos Crowley. Tickets are $10 at local Great Lakes Outdoors outlets and huntingfilmtour.com. There is a 5:30 p.m. reception with local outfitters before the 7 p.m. show.

Grendell hosts Geauga fishing: Judge Tom Grendell is holding his 2^nd annual Family Fishing Expo in the Geauga County Parks on Sept. 13-14. The free family fishing includes angling instruction and prizes for the kids. Fishing tackle is available. The 9 a.m.-noon events are at Swine Creek Reservation on Sept. 13 and Big Creek Park on Sept. 14. To register kids 8-14 years old, visit geaugaparkdistrict.org/programs.

Strangest ideas of the week: Deer hunters are shaking their heads over a story in The Plain Dealer that Avon councilman Dave Kos wants to shoot nuisance deer with paint balls to scare them off -- perhaps to Avon Lake or Westlake. Many small towns now allow bowhunting for deer, the safe, sane, economical answer to too many whitetails.

A kayaker had a strange – and almost fatal -- idea it would be fun to paddle across Lake Michigan on Monday. When he was 30 miles out in strong winds and 10-foot seas, he must have recognized the foolhardiness of the trip because he activated a personal locator beacon. The expensive Coast Guard combination of 45- and 47-foot boats and a helicopter were needed to find him and pluck him from the water.

Get scoring updates and analysis as the Indians take on the Tigers at Progressive Field and chat with cleveland.com's Zack Meisel.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Get scoring updates and analysis as the Indians take on the Tigers at Progressive Field and chat with cleveland.com's Zack Meisel in the comments section.

Game 138: Indians (71-66) vs. Tigers (76-63)

First pitch: 7:05 p.m. at Progressive Field

TV/radio: STO; WTAM AM/1100, WMMS 100.7

The Browns coach did the same thing with Darrelle Revis during their time together in New York.

BEREA, Ohio – The Pittsburgh Steelers expect Browns cornerback Joe Haden to shadow receiver Antonio Brown in Sunday's opener as he did last season.

Browns coach Mike Pettine, however, isn't planning to comply.

A former defensive coordinator who loves to mix coverages, Pettine said his All Pro corner won't play exclusively against the Steelers' top wideout, who finished second in NFL receiving yards last season.

"I'm never a fan of giving an offense a steady diet of the same matchups and same types of coverages," Pettine said. "I just think it goes back to offensive coordinators are pretty good, because they gather information throughout the game. If you settle into a constant, they'll adjust accordingly.

"Part of being a good defense is mixing things up and trying to stay a step ahead."

The shutdown corner shouldn't feel singled out. Pettine said he took the same approach with All Pro Darrelle Revis when the two were together with the New York Jets.

Haden said he's OK with the change in approach and acknowledged offenses can glean tendencies from game-long matchups. He's admitted the shifty Brown is one of the toughest receivers for him to cover.

The diminutive wideout beat Haden for a 41-yard score last season in the Steelers' 27-11 win on Nov. 24.

"Yeah, it's funny with corners," Pettine said. "Every corner kind of has their style that's basically like Kryptonite to them."

On plays when Haden doesn't defend Brown the assignments likely would fall to Buster Skrine.

Learning curve

O'Neil said first-round pick Justin Gilbert will play in "some of our packages," against the Steelers. The coordinator believes the defensive back's struggles in the final two preseason games are experiences that will benefit him.

Gilbert surrendered three touchdowns in coverage and that included two because of missed tackles.

"I think a lot of those moments he can learn from," O'Neil said. "We wanted to see how he would react in certain situations and I think he did a great job. Playing corner is probably the hardest position to play in this league outside playing quarterback. It's a process and I'm happy where he's at right now."

Skrine, who's listed as a starter opposite Haden, and Gilbert are both likely to see plenty of snaps against the Steelers.

In the loop

O'Neil said Pettine's father, Mike Sr., who coached him in high school, is not shy about offering suggestions and critiques.

The elder Pettine sends O'Neil two or three emails a day. Other assistants also are finding missives from the Pennsylvania prep coaching legend in their inboxes. Pettine bought his father an iPad so he could be privy to game tape and team information.

O'Neil said most of the father's analysis is helpful, but the defensive coordinator said you must prepare for the volume.

"The iPad was the worst thing ever invented ... because he is watching the game before you're even home," O'Neil said jokingly. "You'll get an email Sunday night about what you should have done in this situation and who screwed it up ... The worst thing you can do is respond."

Injury update

It's looking unlikely Desmond Bryant will play Sunday as he recovers from wrist surgery. Neither Bryant nor reserve offensive lineman Paul McQuistan (ankle) practiced Thursday.

Second-year defensive end Armonty Bryant will start in his absence. O'Neil expects the youngster to be productive. "I'd expect Armony to have a good year in our system."

Return options

Browns special teams coordinator Chris Tabor said rookie Taylor Gabriel gives them flexibility in the return game. Travis Benjamin is expected to return punts and kickoffs, but Gabriel had a solid showing in preseason. He returned four kickoffs, averaging 31.8 yards and two punts, averaging 16 yards.  

'Mix and match'

O'Neil, a first-year coordinator, said he and Pettine would "mix and match who calls what." They shared call duties, O'Neil said, in the preseason and he thought that went smoothly.

Brownies

ESPN reported that Johnny Manziel has filed for a trademark to a the nickname "Johnny Cleveland." The Heisman Trophy winner has filed for 10 trademarks overall, according to ESPN's Darren Rovell. ... Practice squad quarterback Connor Shaw missed practice after becoming a father early Thursday morning. His wife gave birth to daughter Mila Marie.

TV info for Ohio State's game against Virginia Tech.

COLUMBUS, Ohio — The eighth-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes open their home slate against Virginia Tech on Saturday night at Ohio Stadium. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m.

The game will be televised on ESPN, with Brad Nessler, Todd Blackledge and Holly Rowe on the call. A full list of Ohio State's radio affiliates can be found here.

Buckeyes quarterback J.T. Barrett will make his first career start in Ohio Stadium. The game is part of a big night for the Big Ten, with No. 7 Michigan State at No. 3 Oregon at 6:30 p.m. and Michigan traveling to No. 16 Notre Dame at 7:30 p.m.

Ohio State (1-0) beat Navy in its season opener, while Virginia Tech (1-0) opened the season with a win over William & Mary.

Browns offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan might use Johnny Manziel in Pittsburgh, and says 'he's worth a first-round pick.' He disagrees with critics such as Merril Hoge.

BEREA, Ohio -- Browns offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan wouldn't say if Johnny Manziel will make his NFL debut against the Steelers, but defended him against critics such as former Steelers running back Merril Hoge, who said the former Heisman Trophy had no business being drafted in the first round.

"(He's) worth a first-round draft pick,'' Shanahan said Thursday. "We liked him. I'm glad he's here. I've loved coaching Johnny so far, he's a professional. I don't really know all the stuff that people are ripping him about. I don't have time to read it all, but Johnny's been great. I'm excited to see him play, (and I) think you guys will be too.''

Shanahan wouldn't reveal if Manziel will come off the bench Sunday in Pittsburgh for some spot duty, but thinks the strategy has some merit.

"Yeah, I think it can work,'' said Shanahan. "Other people have done it. It's had success, so everything has a chance.''

If Shanahan does parcel out some of Brian Hoyer's reps to Manziel, it'll be the first time he's tried a two-QB scheme in his 10 NFL seasons.

 "I haven't done that before,'' said Shanahan, who's coached mobile quarterbacks and pocket passers alike. "I've played with a couple of quarterbacks in one game before, but it hasn't been a planned thing. It's been more because of injury, guys coming in and back out, so that will be a new experience for me too if I have to do that. You get a feel for it as you go. You learn from your experiences. You see what works and when it doesn't work, you make adjustments and try to do it better the next time.''

So as not to tip his hand, Shanahan declined to elaborate on the pros and cons of the two-QB tango.

"I don't really know,'' he said. "We'll have to see. He gets out there, he gets to play. That's a pro. But you never what it'll do to an offense, you never know how the defense is going to play it. When the play works, it's a pro. When it doesn't, it's negative. So you really don't know until after the game.''

One obvious 'con' is that it could disrupt Hoyer's flow. Coach Mike Pettine has noted that Hoyer has looked sharper now that he's getting all of the first-team reps.
 
"I think it could (be a negative),'' said Shanahan. "That's something you have to ask him. If I was sitting there calling plays and then all of a sudden someone did it for me for 10 plays, that might be hard for me and mess up my flow a little bit. but it's something you deal with and you get used to it, whether you're Johnny, whether you're Brian, it really doesn't matter.''

Shanahan stressed that tossing the dual-threat Manziel into the game would be vastly different than running the Wildcat, which the Browns sometimes did with Josh Cribbs. In preseason, Manziel rushed 12 times for 88 yards, including a 7-yard touchdown and that brought FirstEnergy Stadium to its feet.  His long gain was 22 yards, and he often rejuvenated a sluggish offense with his legs.

"To me, my understanding of what a Wildcat is is a guy who can't play quarterback who's playing the quarterback position,'' said Shanahan. "Johnny's a quarterback. Just because you're in the pistol doesn't mean you're in the Wildcat. You can do the pistol with Hoyer, you can do it with anybody. I think the Wildcat is when a running back is playing the quarterback position or a guy that can't throw.

"Both of our quarterbacks can throw. One can run better than the other, so you might do a few more plays with one that you wouldn't do with the other, but you mix it up with everybody and try to make the defense defend everything.''

Despite talk of a Manziel package for the opener, the Browns are fine with all Hoyer, all the time if it comes to that. The Steelers aren't buying it, but it could happen.

"I've got a lot of confidence in Brian,'' Shanahan said. "I've enjoyed working with him, I was a fan of Brian when he was at Michigan State and watching him the games he's played in the league. Now to get with him, to work with him on a day-to-day basis, I've enjoyed it. I think we've both learned a lot together, I think he's gotten better throughout this process and I'm excited to see him play on Sunday.''

But if Manziel continues to progress in practice like he has been, it won't be long before Johnny Football hits the field.

"He comes in, puts his work in,'' said Shanahan. " It's been a harder challenge now that we've started the season and you just don't get as much reps with the ones and stuff, but you've got to really take advantage of the scout team reps even though you're running cards for the other team, putting their plays in our terminology and really trying to --even though you're doing a different play -- almost all plays there's some relation to them.

"And every special teams period (he's) getting on the side, going through with (quarterbacks coach Dowell Loggains) his footwork and everything, and trying to get the reps that he doesn't get in practice and he's doing  a good job of it his first week.''

Question is, will it be enough to spring on the Steelers?

If there is a hitter who can set-up a pitcher for some late-game heroics it's Detroit's Miguel Cabrera, says Tribe manager Terry Francona.

CLEVELAND, Ohio – Quick hits from manager Terry Francona and the Indians before Thursday's game against the Tigers at Progressive Field.

He's that good: Are hitters good enough to deke a pitcher early in the game so he can do some big damage later against the same pitch?

Manager Terry Francona says yes and he pointed to one player in particular.

"I think every hitter is different," said Francona. "But to your point, Miggy (Miguel Cabrera) is that guy.

"If you throw him a pitch that he takes or misses early and he hits it late in game, that's not a coincidence. Now you have to be good enough to do it.

"Victor Martinez will go through periods, unfortunately, when it looks like he's playing softball. He just goes up there and swings as hard as he can and rarely misses. It's not a good feeling."

"He took a swing the first night in where he swung so hard and he missed. And he looked so perplexed. I mean he takes good swings all night and he keeps it locked in for so long. It's tough."

Martinez has at least one hit in 24 of his last 29 games against the Indians. He's hitting .360 (81-for-225) with 10 homers and 49 RBI lifetime against the Tribe.

Cabrera is hitting .450 (27-for-60) with three homers and 10 RBI this season against the Indians.

"They're not just good hitters, they're intelligent," said Francona.

Injury update: Mike Aviles is apparently suffering from a concussion. He has not been in the lineup since leaving the game Monday in the fourth inning. Aviles banged his face on the right-field grass when he made a diving attempt to catch Ian Kinsler's triple.

After misplaying another ball in the third, Aviles left the game with dizziness and nausea.

Francona originally said Aviles had passed his concussion test and was suffering from whiplash. On Thursday, Francona said Aviles was suffering from "concussion symptoms."

"Even though it's September and you don't have to put Mike on the concussion disabled list, he's going to have to go through the progression," said Francona. "He's still a little foggy. He's been coming to the ballpark, getting checked and we've been sending him home depending on how he feels."

Rehab update: David Murphy (right oblique) went 1-for-3 with a two-run homer Wednesday to help Class AAA Columbus beat Durham, 9-4, in the first game of the best-of-five International League playoffs.

Matt Carson and James Ramsey also homered, while Francisco Lindor went 3-for-4.

"Murph checked in with the training staff and said he felt pretty good," said Francona. "He'll play again Thursday night and then check back in."

It sounds like Murphy could be activated sometime over the weekend. The White Sox open a three-game series at Progressive Field on Friday. Lefty Chris Sale is starting Friday for Chicago, which means Murphy wouldn't play even if he was activated.

Whitewash city: Danny Salazar's shutout of the Tigers on Wednesday was the Indians' sixth since the All-Star to tie the Angels for the second most in the American League since the All-Star break.

They have 11 shutouts overall, tied for fourth in the AL.

Offensive offense: The Indians have scored three or fewer runs in 24 of the 43 games since the break. They are 9-15 in those games. For the season, the Indians rank seventh in the AL in runs and ninth in the big leagues.

Tribe on TV: While the attendance at Progressive Field has been poor – especially for the four-game series against the Tigers that ended Thursday night -- people are still watching on TV.

The Tribe's 4-2 loss on Tuesday and 7-0 victory Wednesday were both ranked No.1 in primetime, according to SportsTime Ohio.

Wednesday's victory earned a 8.66 HH rating on STO (reaching over 128,500 households). It is currently the eighth highest rated Tribe game of the season.

Tuesday's game earned an 8.46 HH rating (reaching over 125,000 households) and is currently the 11^th highest rated game of the season.

STO says ratings have increased by 13 percent from last year.

The Indians, with the fifth best record in the AL since May 1, remain last in attendance at 1,223,816.

Inside track: Salazar, in throwing an eight-hit shutout Wednesday, did a nice job working inside to the middle of the Tigers lineup, but he had some help.

"Danny had his best change up of the year," said Francona. "That gave him something to slow their bats down and then he worked inside. He was doubly effective."

Finally: The Indians' ERA since the break is 2.83, third lowest in the big leagues. ... The Indians had a 2.39 ERA in August, lowest in the big leagues. They were 17-9 in August. ... Chris Dickerson was scratched from the lineup because of a stiff lower back. Rookie Tyler Holt replaced him in right field.

See the Players of the Week for Sept. 4, 2014.

CLEVELAND, Ohio – Here are the cleveland.com Players of the Week for Sept. 4, 2014. Players of the Week win a free SAT or ACT class with College Review. Call 216-831-2557 or visit collegereview.org online.

Scroll to the bottom for information on how coaches can nominate one of their athletes for this honor.

Look for the Players of the Week feature every Thursday on cleveland.com and every Friday in The Plain Dealer.

BOYS CROSS COUNTRY

Name: Ryan Adams.

School: Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy.

Year: Senior.

College: Undecided.

What Ryan did last week: Won his second consecutive race to start the season, finishing first at the Dave Clegg Invitational at North Canton Hoover on Saturday. Ran a time of 16:21.1.

Three Questions with Ryan

Q: What is your best cross country moment?

A: Qualifying out to the state meet my freshman year. No one really expected us to be a top team at the time, but we did get out and end up getting third at state.

Q: What is your goal for the season?

A: To qualify out of regionals as a team and individually I go into every race to win and glorify Christ with my legs, whoever the competition is.

Q: Who has been the biggest reason you are involved with cross country?

A: I can't really say cross country specifically, but my dad would sign my siblings and me up for summer track meets when we were younger and I decided to do it my seventh grade year. My brother was going into his senior year and his first year of cross country that year as well, so he helped encourage me to wake up early and stick with it through high school.

- Mark Kern

GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY

Name: Jaimie Adams.

School: Padua.

Year: Senior.

Height: 5-8.

College: Undecided.

What Jaimie did last week: Won the Avon Lake Earlybird Gold Division race in a time of 20 minutes, 51 seconds.

Three Questions with Jaimie

Q: Is there a favorite event or moment you are looking forward to during the upcoming school year?

A: School wise definitely looking forward to all the perks of being a senior such as coming in late, donut day, and in cross country I want to make it to the state tournament and have a better performance.

Q: Explain what TV show or movie you would drop everything for.

A: Probably have to be “21 Jump Street.” It’s really funny and I like Dave Franco. I haven’t seen the second yet.

Q: If you could step away from a meet for a minute without any consequences, what would you do?

A: I think I would go to a spot in the woods and look at the scenery. People don’t realize when you are in a race you’re in a competition and the environment would lose its beauty.

- Nathaniel Cline

FOOTBALL

Name: Jay Bullock.

School: University School. 

Year: Senior.

Height/weight: 6-2, 245. 

Position: Linebacker.

College: Undecided.

What Jay did last week: Had 19 solo tackles, six for losses, and two sacks in a 30-28 win at Shaker Heights. Returned an interception 30 yards for a touchdown.

Three Questions with Jay

Q: Who is your favorite football player of all time?

A: Jim Brown. Growing up, I wanted to be a running back like him but played lineman when I first got to high school. As a sophomore, my speed picked up and I got taller. My coaches and I found I was best suited to linebacker. 

Q: What is the greatest highlight of your athletic career?

A: That pick-6 against Shaker Heights really stands out as probably the best play of my career so far. 

Q: What is your favorite professional sports team?

A: The Browns. I'm a hometown guy. I think they're going to go 9-7, honestly. I see a lot of close games coming. I think Brian Hoyer will start most of the season. I don't think Johnny Manziel is there yet.

- Robert Rozboril

FOOTBALL

Name: Tom Hockenberry. 

School: Independence. 

Year: Senior.

Height/weight: 6-2, 200.

Position: Quarterback

College: Undecided.

What Tom did last week: In a 40-35 come-from-behind win against Columbia, he completed 19 of 32 passes for 295 yards and four touchdowns, including the game-winning pass with eight seconds left. Rushed five times for 25 yards and a touchdown.

Three Questions with Tom

Q: What is your favorite football moment?

‪A: Beating Cuyahoga Heights last year.

Q: ‪What is your biggest individual goal for the season?

‪A: My goal for this season is to make the playoffs and break the remaining school passing records.

Q: ‪Who was the person who got you involved with football?

‪A: My dad got me involved in football when I was 5 and I've loved every year of it. 

- Mark Kern

GIRLS GOLF

Name: Megan Pollock.

School:Medina.


Year: Senior.

Height: 5-1.

College: Undecided.

What Megan did last week: Averaged a 39.2 score in four matches with three top-three finishes: 10^th at the Walsh Jesuit Invitational, medalist against Strongsville, second against Brunswick and third against Solon and Hudson.

Three Questions with Megan

Q: What are your goals for the rest of the season?

A: My goals are just to grow as a golfer and to do better than I did last year. And I want to make it to state and have our team make it to state. We have a good shot and that’s our ultimate goal.

Q: What’s your biggest accomplishment in golf so far?

A: Shooting in the 70s and breaking that [barrier]. For me, individually, it was hard to do but that was a big accomplishment. It was exciting.

Q: Is there something you always have on you or in your bag when you play, or something superstitious about your game?

A: Actually I always change my shoelaces to match my outfit. And my bow has to match as well.

- Ryan Lewis

BOYS SOCCER

Name: Dev Dayalal.

School: Brecksville. 

Year: Senior.

Height: 5-9. 

Position: Goalkeeper.

College: Undecided.

What Dev did last week: Registered shutouts against Valley Forge, 3-0, Amherst, 1-0, and Wadsworth, 2-0. Recorded 12 saves to help the Bees to a 3-1 start.

Three Questions with Dev

Q: Who is the greatest inspiration to you as an athlete?

A: Tim Howard, goalkeeper for the U.S. Men’s National Team. He commands the field well, is a great shot-stopper, is a great leader and he loves the game. 

Q: Are there any obstacles you've overcome that have shaped you as a person/player?

A: I tore my ACL last spring and ever since then I realized you should never take any moments for granted and to give it your all every time you take the field. 

Q: What is your favorite professional sports team?

A: U.S. Men’s National Team. 

- Robert Rozboril

GIRLS SOCCER

Name: Kristen Blanchard.

School:Mayfield.

Year: Junior.

Height: 5-1.

Position: Forward.

College: Undecided.

What Kristen did last week: Scored two goals in a 3-0 win against Eastlake North and two goals in a 4-1 win against Brush. She has four of her team's first seven goals.

Three questions with Kristen

Q: Is last week the best you’ve had as a soccer player?

A: Yes, as far as getting them into the goal.

Q: How much were you into the World Cup and how the United States performed?

A: I really loved it. It gave me a view of how I play my game, how it helped me focus on how I shot because I am a forward. It helped me with my technique, too.

Q: Is there any player you model your playing style after?

A: Not really, actually. I don't try to model myself after someone. I try to be my own person, try to overcome what they have done, maybe not at their level, but as a player.

- Tim Bielik

TENNIS

Name: Alexandra Vesikallio.

School: Magnificat.

Year: Freshman.

Height: 5-3.

Position: No. 2 singles.

College: Undecided.

What Alexandra did last week: Defeated Walsh Jesuit 6-3, 3-6, 6-2 and Medina 6-0, 6-0 at second singles. Played first singles against Westlake and won 6-0, 6-0. Vesikallio is 11-0, 9-0 at second singles and 2-0 at first singles.

Three Questions with Alexandra

Q: What do you tell yourself before you go on court?

A: I just tell myself to try my best and whatever happens happens.

Q: What’s your favorite motivational quote?

A: “He who says he can and he who says he can't are both usually right.” - Confucius. 

Q: What was your favorite part of this summer?

A: Probably going to Finland. I’m half-Finnish so we go visit family there.

-- Stephanie Kuzydym

VOLLEYBALL

Name: Anna Del Zoppo.

School: Mayfield.

Year: Senior.

Height: 5-1.

Position: Libero.

College: Undecided.

What Anna did last week: Recorded her 1,000^th career dig in the third set against Willoughby South. Anna has started on varsity all four seasons and leads the team in digs with 67. Against Solon, South and Villa Angela-St. Joseph, she recorded 53 digs, 20 service points and three aces.

Three Questions With Anna

Q: What does reaching 1,000 career digs mean to you?

A: It’s a really big accomplishment. My coaches didn’t tell me I had 1,000, so when I got it, I didn’t even know where I was. It was a good feeling.


Q: What’s something people don’t know about you?


A: I am obsessed with the “Transformer” movies. I think the quality is very good and I like the action.


Q: What is your ultimate goal for the season?


A: I want to win district and I want to go to regionals and hopefully go to college for volleyball.

– Cameron Moon

How to nominate an athlete for Players of the Week:

Coaches can nominate an athlete anytime between the end of all games in a week and Monday at noon. Go online to cleveland.com/potw to access the nomination form. Fill in all the blanks, especially the part on what the athlete did that week. The deadline is Monday at noon. Only coaches can nominate an athlete.

Browns receiver Josh Gordon will "put in his time'' learning the automotive business, Jeff Sarchione, owner of the Sarchione Auto Group, told Northeast Ohio Media Group on Thursday.

BEREA, Ohio -- Browns receiver Josh Gordon will be putting in a 40-hour work week learning the automotive business during his suspension, Jeff Sarchione, co-owner of the Sarchione Auto Group in Randolph, Ohio, told Northeast Ohio Media Group on Thursday.

"He's going to put his time in,'' Sarchione said. "He'll be everything from a salesman to attaching himself at the hip with my brother and I just learning the automotive business from top to bottom.''

Sarchione said Gordon will also have a gym membership as part of his employment with the Chevrolet and Ford dealerships and will be working out there regularly.

"It will be a benefit for everyone,'' Sarchione said. "I'm excited for him.''

Sarchione said his sister-in-law, Alex Sarchione, reached out to the All-Pro and members of his business team to set up the opportunity. He said Gordon expressed a sincere interest in learning the industry.

"Obviously Josh's priorities are to the Cleveland Browns and to the NFL, but he's not going to play football for his whole life,'' said Sarchione. "This can help him grow in something after football. He can learn our family business, and we're expanding and this is the next step.''

Sarchione said Gordon will be selling cars at both Portage County dealerships and at their used-car dealership in Alliance, Ohio.

"If you want to buy a car or truck from Josh, you'll be able to do that,'' said Sarchione. "He will do everything my brother and I do.''

Sarchione said he wants to get Gordon into a Ford F-150, but knows he might have to paint it camouflage, like Gordon's Porsche.

In addition, Gordon will be the auto group's goodwill ambassador, working at local food drives and with the Wounded Warrior Project, a program to help veterans.

"We're still very early in the planning stages of this, but he might also get involved with some local schools and their football programs,'' said Sarchione.

Sarchione said he feels that working for the auto group will be a positive experience for Gordon while he's serving his season-long suspension from the NFL for violating the league's substance-abuse policy. He declined to say if Gordon will get paid.

"He will be busy,'' said Sarchione. "Everybody's excited about it.''

He said Gordon, who could be eligible to apply for reinstatement after the season, will start working for him this weekend.

Browns coach Mike Pettine declined to comment on Gordon's new job, saying only that he "wants what's best for Josh.''

A source told cleveland.com that Gordon's lawyers are still also contemplating suing the NFL for what they feel is his wrongful suspension.

ESPN's Josina Anderson was the first to report that Gordon will work for Sarchione.

AKRON, Ohio – LeBron James was back at St. Vincent-St. Mary Friday night, watching the Fighting Irish take on Walsh Jesuit with his sons, Bryce and LeBron Jr. Check back with the Week 2 Varsity Blitz Live for all your high school football coverage needs. James is also expected to be at Saturday night's Ohio State home game against Virginia Tech....

AKRON, Ohio – LeBron James was back at St. Vincent-St. Mary Friday night, watching the Fighting Irish take on Walsh Jesuit with his sons, Bryce and LeBron Jr.

Check back with the Week 2 Varsity Blitz Live for all your high school football coverage needs.

James is also expected to be at Saturday night's Ohio State home game against Virginia Tech.

The Cleveland Browns have benefitted from the fan base's dog-like loyalty. The sense this year is that people are keeping their optimism in check until they see reason to believe -- Bud Shaw's Sports Spin.

CLEVELAND, Ohio – It's the Steelers. It's the opener.

So instead of a drum roll and week-long pep rally that makes Mardi Gras look like a church picnic, why the relatively flatline buildup to Sunday at Heinz Field?

Just because Johnny Cleveland is working the clipboard? Surely, that's a factor. But I prefer to think, even beyond the hype for an unprepared rookie, lies the accumulative drag of hopes rising and getting dashed on the rocks over and over every September.

What else could it be? The LeBron Factor doesn't kick in until November. The finale of the Tigers-Indians series drew 11,935, so it's not as if the multitudes needed time to heal vocal chords screamed raw at Progressive Field.

My guess is we can also rule out Gladiators' mourning.

The answer: a fan base that's endured so much disappointment is watching yet another rookie head coach and unconvincing starting quarterback take center stage.

That's not a shot at Brian Hoyer. He's more convincing than Johnny Manziel. It's simply the state of the position after an uninspiring quarterback competition.

My sense is people have finally reached that point where all the change has dulled the nerve endings that once tingled on cue late every training camp. We've reached the point where the promise of a team that "makes Browns' fans proud" by "playing the right way" is a taunting echo.

Apologies to Phil Savage if this sounds like "woe is us." It's not that. It's not defeatist. It's just protected hope, optimism packed away for use when evidence of a turnaround finally justifies it.

It's the weight of six consecutive double digit loss seasons.

Play like a Brown? Stop. Just show us.

A team that will know when to work and when to play, as Mike Pettine says over and over in one radio promo?

"Keeping in mind that the real fun will come when we're winning games on Sunday," he says, confidently.

Not if, when? Sorry, it's still "if" for a fandom that can't help but lump him in with Chris Palmer, Butch Davis, Romeo Crennel, Pat Shurmur and Rob Chudzinski.

Browns' fans had to jump out of the way of Palmer's runaway train. Davis looked the part of the sheriff who walks off into the sunset, yet somehow walked away citing panic attacks.

Crennel, Shurmur and Chudzinski continued the procession of first-time head coaches. Only Eric Mangini interrupted that parade and now comes Pettine floating around the corner on to Broadway.

He will call the defense just as Shurmur called the offense. Can he do it while taking responsibility for the totality of game day and its break-neck pace?

Shurmur got penalized 15 yards for knocking an official down on the sidelines in his coaching debut. Pettine, who came out of a Joe Banner-led search that first gave us Chudzinski, has to do much better than simply avoiding a referee collision to win trust after a training camp that introduced more questions than it did supply answers.

The receiving corps? The best hope is reinstatement for Josh Gordon.

Quarterback? Hoyer, with his three starts, wins the job on experience more than merit. Manziel? He fell far short of wrecking Hoyer in camp, so what does that portend for wrecking the league?

Dion Lewis, whom Pettine lauded for his experience and versatility, got cut. Two rookies, Terrance West and Isaiah Crowell, are the answer to concerns about Ben Tate's durability?

Either the Browns played the most convincing game of opossum since Ali's rope-a-dope or they are walking unsteadily into another opener, this time in a place that's been their haunted house.

"It's brutal when you truly look at it, but that's something that's a big part of our prep is understanding that that has nothing to do with us," Pettine said this week of the lopsided rivalry. "That has nothing to do with this game. That has nothing to do with us moving forward. That was our message back in the spring when we said, 'Hey, recognize the history, but break off the rear-view mirror.'"

We'll see if Kyle Shanahan's offense complements Pettine's expertise on defense, or if the complexity of it sabotages the best chance for early success for yet another rookie head coach.

We'll see if Ray Farmer left Pettine hanging by his finger nails or just his fingers at wide receiver?

We'll see if the Steelers are a springboard or the beginning of a familiar gantlet.

The license to believe requires a stout heart. And, by now, a win or three.