"If you would have told me at the start of the year some of the things that transpired would have happened, I'm not sure I would've been optimistic that we would've won 75 games, let alone 85 games."

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- There are varying perspectives any insider or outsider can apply when reflecting upon the Indians' season.

In short, an 85-win campaign was not enough to extend the club's season into October. Especially on the heels of a 92-win year that included a three-hour playoff cameo, falling short of the postseason served as a disappointment for the players, coaches and front-office executives.

"We're [no longer] playing, so we're all a little bit disappointed," General Manager Chris Antonetti said Monday at an exit interview with reporters at Progressive Field.

Here is a smattering of what Antonetti and manager Terry Francona had to say, one day after the completion of their season.

For four months, the Indians' rotation was unsettled: Nick Swisher, the club's highest-paid player, battled knee ailments and an ineffective bat. Once the starting pitching rounded into form late in the summer, the team's lumber went dormant. Carlos Santana, Yan Gomes, Jason Kipnis and David Murphy all suffered injuries at various points in the season. The club fielded the worst defense in the league.

And yet, Francona somehow guided the team to 85 wins.

Antonetti: "When you're able to step back and take a broader view, it was an incredible year, in terms of progress. If you would have told me at the start of the year some of the things that transpired would have happened, I'm not sure I would've been optimistic that we would've won 75 games, let alone 85 games."

That said, those setbacks prevented the club from qualifying for the postseason. Historic performances by Michael Brantley and Corey Kluber were not rewarded with a ticket to October baseball.

Kipnis followed up an All-Star season with one mired in inconsistency. He missed May with a strained oblique. Francona said he rushed back from the injury, though he refused to blame the second baseman's struggles solely on that. Kipnis batted .240 with six home runs and a .640 OPS in 129 games.

He did not record an RBI over the final month of the season, a span of 89 plate appearances in which he hit .183 with a .491 OPS.

Francona: "It reinforced that not winning and playing the game to his standards bothered him a lot."

Antonetti: "We expect him to be a cornerstone guy for us next year, so rather than spending a lot of time dissecting what happened, our focus is: How do we help him take advantage of the off-season, come into spring training ready to go and look at 2015 rather than dwell on '14?"

Kluber is in contention for the American League Cy Young Award, after posting an 18-9 record, 2.44 ERA and 269 strikeouts.

Antonetti: "It was an incredible year. He was, in our view, the best pitcher in the American League this year. His consistency and consistent dominance was a big part of the reason we were able to win as many games as we did. It's not an accident why that happened. It's because of the work that he's put in."

Brantley became the first player in franchise history to register 200 hits, 40 doubles, 20 home runs and 20 stolen bases in a single season. He finished the year with a .327/.385/.506 slash line, 20 homers, 97 RBIs, 23 steals and 94 runs scored.

Antonetti: "He's a complete player and we think [he's] deserving of MVP consideration with the year he had. He was a huge part of our success and we think [he's] one of the best players in the American League.

The Indians scored three runs or fewer in half of their games. They went 25-56 in such affairs.

Francona: "When your pitching gives you a chance -- even the last couple of months, as hard as runs seemed to be for us to score, we seemed to pretty much have a chance every night. ... It's not just the Indians; it's league-wide right now. Teams are trying to figure out the adjustments that need to be made, because the power is down, but the strikeouts aren't. So how you move forward is going to be really interesting."

The Indians committed 116 errors, five more than any other team in baseball. They finished last in fielding percentage and second-last in FanGraphs' defensive rating system.

Antonetti: "We've spent a lot of time talking about it. ... The encouraging thing is it was much better in the second half than it was in the first half."

Quick hits

• The Indians have no plans to change their coaching staff, though they anticipate some of their guys may get interviews elsewhere.

• The club has yet to choose whether it will pick up Mike Aviles' $3.5 million option for 2015. It comes with a $250,000 buyout. The Indians have until three days after the conclusion of the World Series to decide.

• Will the Indians engage in discussions with Kluber on a long-term contract extension? They won't tip their hand. Antonetti said it's a conversation for later in the winter.

"He's a guy we value incredibly high and we're thankful that he's going to be here for a while. That's a good starting point for us."

Offense has been his calling card and after three days of training camp, players in Cleveland are starting to see what makes David Blatt so special.

INDEPENDENCE, Ohio -- When the Cavaliers hired head coach David Blatt in June, fans scrambled to the Internet to find out as much as they could about him. His resume showed a coach with a track record for success, winning 17 championships in various leagues and tournaments in 21 years, including the Euroleague championship.

Terms such as smart, creative and adaptable have been used to describe Blatt, who guided Russia to the bronze medal in the 2012 Olympics. Andrei Kirilenko went as far as to call Blatt a better coach than Phil Jackson, who has won 11 NBA championships.

Offense has been his calling card and after three days of training camp, the players are starting to see what makes Blatt so special.

"His offensive stuff is borderline genius," wing Mike Miller said following Monday's practice. "It takes a little time, but you see why he's done such a good job leading teams to championships. He's a good coach."

Miller knows quality coaching. He was with Erik Spoelstra in Miami when the Heat won two titles. He played in playoff series against coaches Gregg Popovich and Doc Rivers.

The Cavs have lost 215 games the last four years. Many issues have led to the losses, including talent. But offense has often been at the heart.

In the four years without LeBron James, the team's best offensive season was 2012-13, averaging 96.5 points, tied for 18th out of 30 teams. The other three seasons the Cavs ranked 22nd once and 25th twice. The additions by General Manager David Griffin this off-season will help. But an improvement in coaching should as well, which is why Blatt is here.

The 55-year-old coach played at Princeton for Pete Carril, and Blatt's offense often gets compared to that.

"The Princeton offense by design is based on ball movement, reading over plays, making good cuts, passing the ball on time and trying to play more than just running plays," Blatt said following Monday practice. "The way we want to play with this group is giving them the chance to read and react, make good decisions and try to play off the defense as much as possible."

Movement has been a problem for the Cavs. Too often players stood still as the shot clock was winding down. The team averaged 21.2 assists per game, better than just nine teams.

"Anytime you have LeBron on the floor the ball is going to move," Miller said. "Kyrie is so good with the ball. Dion (Waiters). Kevin Love is an unbelievable passer. There are a lot of talented guys learning how to play with each other. Our true test is going to be ourselves and it's going to be when things go bad, a little adversity."

That hasn't been an issue so far, with players buying into the new offensive principles.

"It's not the typical NBA sets that all 30 teams run with little twists and wrinkles," Miller said. "This is completely different. Once we get a hold of it it's going to be a big weapon."

James, who admitted going to YouTube to learn about Blatt's offense, shares Miller's enthusiasm.

"It's very free flowing and it's going to be challenging for guys," James said. "I can see it. Guys are kind of thinking through it a little too much, but I think when we get it there are so many different options. It's live at every position and there's a counter to everything a defense can do."

The Princeton offense isn't new to the NBA. James referenced the Washington Wizards, who ran a version of it with Eddie Jordan as head coach. Byron Scott attempted to run it during his first season in Cleveland. But James believes this version is a bit different.

"People always say the Princeton when you have four guys above the free throw line. A lot of teams have played it in the past," James said. "There's a lot more options to this than I'm used to seeing."

It's three days into a season-long journey for the Cavs that could culminate in the franchise's first championship. But a lot of things have to go right. It took the Heat some time to get the new faces to come together. There has been massive roster turnover for the Cavaliers. Hard work, patience and chemistry were key elements to Miami's title runs.

James sees those qualities now with this new squad.

"What's not to like?" he asked. "We have a lot of talent, we have guys that want to learn and we have guys that want to work. That's a key." 

Golfers recording hole-in-one or double eagle in the past week at local courses.

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CLEVELAND, Ohio – Here is the list of holes-in-one and double eagles as reported by golf courses for the past week.

Al Alberts of Eastlake aced the 132-yard third hole at Lost Nation G.C. using an 8-iron.

Lenny Beck of Pepper Pike aced the 150-yard 15th hole at Beechmont C.C. using a 7-wood.

Jim Cotner aced the 155-yard 12th hole at Avon Oaks G.C. using a 6-iron.

Jeff Domonkos of Middleburg Heights aced the 80-yard 14th hole at The Links G.C. using a pitching wedge.

Peter Donohoe of North Olmsted aced the 125-yard eighth hole at Valleaire G.C. using a pitching wedge.

Roger Lefkowitz of South Euclid aced the 104-yard sixth hole at Washington G.C. using an 8-iron.

Jason Hallums aced the 185-yard fourth hole at Sandridge G.C. using a 4-iron.

Alan Kopit aced the 144-yard eighth hole at Sandridge G.C. using a 7-iron.

Frank Razzano of Reminderville aced the 154-yard 14th hole at Grantwood G.C. using a 5-wood.

Kevin Rochford aced the 133-yard eighth hole at Sandridge G.C. using a pitching wedge.

Cliff Thompson aced the 155-yard fifth hole at Red Tail G.C. using a 5-iron.

Gerald Weber of Lakewood aced the 136-yard 17th hole at Bunker Hills G.C. using a 9-iron.

Jack Yarosh of Strongsville aced the 165-yard second hole at Turkeyfoot Lake G.L. using a 5-wood.
 

Antone Smith and Jerick McKinnon among this week's top waiver wire options.

*This content is provided by our sister site, OregonLive.com. For additional resources, check out OregonLive.com's complete fantasy football coverage.

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The deeper the NFL season goes, the harder it is to find a waiver-wire gem, but as we approach Week 5, there could be a perfect storm to help your running back corps.

Minnesota rookie Jerick McKinnon was the breakout star of Week 4, rushing 18 times for 135 yards against Atlanta. Matt Asiata started, and stole the headlines with 20 carries, 78 yards and three touchdowns, but McKinnon swapped series with Asiata throughout the game.

And here's the real bonus: This week, the Vikings play the Packers on Thursday night. Green Bay ranks last in the NFL in stopping the run, giving up an average of 176 yards per game and 4.6 yards per carry.

If the Vikings continue to alternate series with their backs, the third-round pick out of Georgia Southern could once again see plenty of carries in what figures to be a shootout of a game.

Other waiver wire options:

RUNNING BACKS

Antone Smith, RB, Atlanta - It's hard to recommend a running back on the Falcons because they have the deepest platoon system in the NFL with Steven Jackson, Devonta Freeman, Jacquizz Rodgers and Smith.

But the past two weeks, Smith has scored, including a 48-yard touchdown last week against Minnesota. All told, he had only four carries for 62 yards, but you have to take notice of any player who scores routinely in fantasy football. It might not be time to start him, but Smith might be a guy to stash on the bench and monitor to see if his nose for the end zone becomes a pattern.

Bishop Sankey, RB, Tennessee - The rookie scored his first touchdown last week and is gradually stealing more and more playing time from Shonn Green. If you are desperate for an emergency back this week, Sankey is worth a look because the Titans are playing Cleveland, which ranks 28^th in stopping the run.

WIDE RECEIVERS

Malcom Floyd, San Diego - Floyd has gotten off to a slow start, but the Chargers have recently turned into an almost exclusive passing team after injuries to Ryan Mathews and Danny Woodhead.

Last week, Floyd caught a touchdown as the Chargers passed at a nearly 2-to-1 ratio over the run, even as they were comfortably ahead of Jacksonville in a 33-14 rout.  That ratio doesn't figure to change this week when San Diego goes against the Jets, who are the best against the rush, allowing just 63 yards per game.

The ball will be flying, and eventually, it will land in the hands of Floyd.

Marvin Jones, Cincinnati - After watching Kansas City pick apart the Patriots secondary on Monday, owners should be jumping at the chance to secure any Bengals receivers, and Jones is one who might have slipped through the cracks.

Sunday will be the first time Jones is active this season after recovering from a broken foot. Jones last season had 51 catches and a whopping 10 touchdowns.

"I can't wait,'' Bengals offensive coordinator told the Cincinnati Enquirer.

Perhaps that's because he just saw Kansas City quarterback Alex Smith complete 20-of-26 passes for 248 yards against the Pats.

TIGHT ENDS

Heath Miller, Pittsburgh - His catches have increased every week, culminating with a career-high 10 catches for 85 yards and a touchdown last week. He has always been one of Ben Roethlisberger's most trusted targets, and expect that to continue this week against Jacksonville, which is last in the NFL against the pass.

Eric Ebron, Detroit - The 10th overall pick finally showed some life last week, catching his first touchdown, but he has been shut out in two of the season's four weeks. He was targeted more as Calvin Johnson was limited with an ankle injury, and if Johnson continues to show up on the injury report this week, it might be worth taking a look at Ebron.

Cameron expects to contribute despite dealing with 'nagging' injury.

BEREA, Ohio – Jordan Cameron's best therapy over the bye weekend was mental, not physical.

Getting to spend time with his 5-year-old son Tristan, who lives in Southern California, eased its share of pains. But as the Browns tight end returned to practice Tuesday, he acknowledged the discomfort from the sprained AC joint in his shoulder could linger.    

"You do a lot of strengthening work, but it's one of those injuries that's going to be there for a while," Cameron said. "It's just a nagging thing. ... You can take some hits, but it's just an AC sprain. It's a nagging injury and that's pretty much it."

The Pro Bowler has been dealing with it since the team scrimmage in early August. He re-injured the shoulder in the regular-season opener in Pittsburgh before returning for the Sept. 21 game against the Ravens, in which he caught one pass for 23 yards and was targeted just three times.

Cameron said the time off did him good physically and doesn't believe he'll require off-season surgery.

"I feel a lot better," said Cameron, who has three catches for 70 yards. "I feel relaxed and it was a good break, get the body right and heal up a little bit. ... My goal is to get back in tip-top shape and be able to perform at the highest level that I can and win some games."

The Browns (1-2) rank among the NFL's top-15 teams in scoring (24.7) and total offense (362.7 yards) without suspended receiver Josh Gordon and limited participation from Cameron.

A healthy Cameron could make a substantial difference for quarterback Brian Hoyer and the offense. A season ago, he had 26 catches for 269 yards and four touchdowns after three games.

Getting him back at full strength might be asking too much. It's not as though Cameron can avoid contact in the high-traffic areas where he does his best work.

"You can't really protect it," he said of the shoulder. "I can't tell a guy not to hit me over here. It's just one of those things. ... You can't be thinking about it because it'll affect the way you play."

Brownies

Defensive end Desmond Bryant, who missed the opener following wrist surgery, worked on the side during the portion of practice open to the media Tuesday. Coach Mike Pettine said Bryant is a "little nicked up," and isn't sure he'll practice Wednesday.

Breaking down Ohio State-Maryland, what's going on at Michigan and more in our Ohio State, Big Ten football show.

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Is Ohio State's pass defense a concern this week against Maryland?

Doug Lesmireses, Ari Wasserman and Bill Landis talked about that and more during this week's Ohio State, Big Ten football show. See the full show in the video above.

The Buckeyes open Big Ten play this weekend on the road against the Terrapins. Coming off wins against Kent State and Cincinnati, are you convinced that Ohio State's pass defense is good enough to shut down Maryland and star receiver Stefon Diggs?

Doug, Ari and Bill also give their responses to some commenter-submitted Ohio State questions.

We take a closer look at the situation at Michigan, and how it could affect the job status of Wolverines coach Brady Hoke and athletic director Dave Brandon.

Finally we examine what needs to happen during Saturday's game between No. 19 Nebraska and No. 10 Michigan State, and if that game can help change the perception of the Big Ten.

Also, Ari gives skin care advice.

The Big Ten, Ohio State football show airs live every Tuesday at 12:30 p.m. on cleveland.com.

LeBron James' new TV show is a comedy, but it mirrors some of the most hot-button societal issues ongoing in professional sports.

INDEPENDENCE, Ohio – LeBron James' debut as a TV producer begins Saturday night with a show that addresses some of the most serious social issues unfolding in professional sports today.

And that's by accident.

The show, "Survivor's Remorse," will air Saturday night at 9 on the Starz cable network. It's a comedy about a star basketball player and the people close to him, though the show's creators have made clear it's not about James' life.

In the show's first two episodes, which are available now on Starz' website (viewer's discretion strongly advised, the shows are not suitable for children), the main characters are in situations punctuated by race, drug use, and even domestic abuse against children.

In the first episode, the lead character, basketball star Cam Calloway, and his manager/cousin Reggie Vaughn, are discovered on a videotape from when they were children smoking marijuana and referring to Chinese people in a derogatory manner.

In the second episode, Calloway's mother discloses -- while on the red carpet for a star-studded social event -- that she physically beat her son as a child.

In real life, race relations remain a hot-button issue in the NBA because of the racially insensitive comments made by Atlanta General Manager Danny Ferry (a former Cavaliers GM) about former Cleveland forward Luol Deng. The physical abuse of children is a pressing topic in the NFL because of charges filed against Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson for hitting his son with a "switch."

The similar situations depicted in "Survivor's Remorse" are portrayed as negatives in the show, which, again, is a comedy.

"It's weird because we shot the show in March, and the current events is happening right now," James said. "People will see it and say 'oh, they bit right off of what is going on right now,' and actually, if you know, to tape a show it takes months and months in advance.

"We actually did a reading in January. It's crazy that we did a show so far long ago and it's coming out now and the current events is going on."

"Survivor's Remorse" is a product of Spring Hill Productions, James' growing TV production company run by long-time friend and business partner Maverick Carter. The show is largely a shared vision of Carter, Boston Red Sox chairman Tom Werner – who also partners with Carter and James on marketing ventures -- and the show's writer, Mike O'Malley.

Another major force behind the show – it's creation if not it's content – is Paul Wachter, a Los Angeles-based adviser who executes James' business deals and investments.

But James' name appears prominently in the credits as a producer, and knows the show will be tied to him. The show is filled with adult content, and James said "we continue to say it's for adults only, and parental discretion is advised.

"It's not for kids, but it's a great show," James said.

A little more family friendly show featuring James will air beginning Nov. 20, when HGTV's "Rehab Addict" shows its project renovating an Akron home in conjunction with the LeBron James Family Foundation.

Five episodes showing the Akron rehab project will air through December and will include appearances by James. There has been a little confusion regarding James' "Rehab Addict" appearances because of a commercial running on HGTV.

The commercial suggests James will be on the show Thursday at 9 p.m., but a network spokeswoman said those ads are meant to promote the entire season – which starts Thursday. James wasn't involved with Thursday's episode.

Lake Erie Monsters hoping to avoid mid-season slump with hungry, third-year players and promising young goalies.

STRONGSVILLE, Ohio – Starting strong is meaningless when it's followed by fading fast. The Lake Erie Monsters know that's been their downfall the last two seasons, which both ended with them out of the American Hockey League playoffs.

That was a hot topic as Lake Erie's 10-day training camp began at OBM Arena (formerly Hoover Arena) Tuesday in Strongsville.

With a roster that at first glance appears dotted with bigger players, but still young, the Monsters hope to prevent the midseason fades that had them playing catch-up after New Year's Day in 2013 and 2014.

They didn't catch up. Lake Erie finished 33-32-1-10 last season, and was 35-31-3-7 in 2012-13.

"Whenever you're doing that, it's tough because you're not just trying to catch one team, your trying to catch two or three,'' said center Michael Sgarbossa. "We want to get out in front and stay in front.''

Third-year coach Dean Chynoweth said injuries have played a part the last two years, but injuries always are a factor in hockey.

"We haven't been able to elevate our game and cover for from the standpoint of probably lack of experience, and immaturity,'' Chynoweth said.

He's counting on the hunger of a core group of third-year players.

"That's a real telling year. First year, you give them a little leeway to find their way, the second year you hope to see them trending the right way, and the third year they need to have it figured out,'' Chynoweth said. "We have a group that's in that area, and I'm excited to see where they can take it.''

Among the third-year players are centers Sgarbossa and Paul Carey, goalie Sami Aittokallio, and defensemen Gabriel Beaupre, Markus Lauridsen and Karl Stollery.

Goalie depth: Four goalies are in camp, and Aittokallio, 22, has the most AHL experience (63) games, all with Lake Erie. A newcomer to watch is highly touted, 21-year-old Czech net minder Roman Will, who recorded 1.87 and 1.61 goals-against averages the last two years in the Czech Extraliga hockey league. Calvin Pickard, still in parent club Colorado's camp, could come back to Lake Erie, where he would be in his third year.

NHL debuts: Carey and Stollery made their NHL debuts last season, and Carey stayed with the Avalanche in the playoffs. They were early cuts in Colorado's camp and are back with the Monsters.

Center Joey Hishon also debuted last year and saw significant ice time during Colorado's first-round upset loss to Minnesota. He still is in Colorado's camp.

"It helped my confidence a lot,'' Carey said of the NHL playoffs. "It was great to go on that little run and get some playoff experience. That first series was a killer, but it certainly was a good experience for a lot of guys.

"(Getting cut) is good motivation. Nothing wrong with Cleveland, but I definitely want to be back in Denver as soon as I can.''

Iron man: Colin Smith, 21, was the only Lake Erie player to appear in all 76 games last season. Smith (5-10, 176) got off to a slow start and finished with eight goals and 26 assists in his AHL rookie season, one year after recording 106 points (41 goals) in the Western Hockey League.

"I want to be able to establish myself,'' he said. "I feel this is a big year for me. When you move up through Juniors, you kind of go through a similar progression, and I'm trying to stay the course. Obviously, you want to be an impact player right away, and sometimes that's not the case. Progress is the key.''

Two vets: The current roster has just two veteran-rule players, forward Christian Hanson and defenseman Alex Nightingale. Hanson is the son of David Hanson of the Hanson Brothers fame in the Paul Newman hockey movie "Slap Shot,'' is on an invited tryout. He played 36 games for the Toronto Maple Leafs, and spent the last three seasons in the AHL with Hershey, Providence and Chicago.

Camp schedule: Wednesday is a double session, 8:30-11:15 a.m., and 4:50 p.m. Thursday's workout is 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The Monsters play road exhibition games against Grand Rapids on Friday and Saturday, and resume practice Monday. Practices are free and open to the public.

The regular season begins Oct. 10 in Grand Rapids, and the home opener is Oct. 11 against Grand Rapids at Quicken Loans Arena.

Monsters broadcasts: WKNR-AM 850 and WHK-AM 1420 each will carry 36 games this season, and four games will be carried on iheart.com's 99X. Doug Plagens returns for his fourth season as the voice of the Monsters. Plagens, 29, will call his 500^th pro hockey game this season.

Corey Kluber earned the distinction of American League Pitcher of the Month for September. Will a Cy Young Award follow?

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Corey Kluber earned the distinction of American League Pitcher of the Month for September. Will a Cy Young Award follow?

The Tribe right-hander went 5-1 with a 2.09 ERA during the final month of the regular season. He amassed 56 strikeouts and issued only seven free passes. Over his last five starts, he posted a 5-0 record, 1.12 ERA and totaled 54 strikeouts in 40 1/3 innings.

Kluber became the ninth pitcher in modern baseball history to register 14 or more strikeouts in consecutive outings. On Sept. 16 at Minute Maid Park in Houston, he tallied 14 strikeouts in seven innings. Five days later at Target Field in Minnesota, he tallied 14 more over eight frames. He wrapped up his historic campaign with 11 strikeouts in eight scoreless innings during a 1-0 win against the Rays.

Kluber pitched at least eight innings in four of his final five starts. He totaled 39 strikeouts over his last 23 innings.

Kluber finished the regular season with an AL-best 18 wins. He logged a 2.44 ERA with 269 strikeouts in 235 2/3 innings. He and Seattle's Felix Hernandez (15-6, 2.14 ERA) are considered the primary candidates for the AL Cy Young Award.

Carlos Carrasco, Kluber's teammate, also offered a strong case for the Player of the Month honor. Despite a 2-3 record, Carrasco posted a 1.62 ERA with eight walks and 54 strikeouts in 44 1/3 innings.

Browns running back Ben Tate will likely start in Tennessee, but thinks it would be tough to find enough carries for three backs. So who will be the odd man out? Isaiah Crowell or Terrance West?

BEREA, Ohio -- Browns running back Ben Tate will return to his starting role when healthy -- as soon as Sunday in Tennessee -- but thinks three's a crowd.

"Three? I don't know about three,'' Tate said about joining rookies Isaiah Crowell and Terrance West in the backfield. "That's tough. That's tough to have three running backs. As a running back you want to get into a rhythm, so it's tough to have three, but two? Yeah, I definitely think two running backs works."

Tate returned to practice Tuesday for the first time since spraining his knee in Pittsburgh Sept. 7 and missing the next two games. He moved well in offensive drills and position work despite wearing a brace on the right knee, and coach Mike Pettine stressed that he'll start as soon as he's ready -- which should be this week.

"We'll make that decision at the end of the week,'' said Pettine. "If he's ready to go, there's no sense resting him. He told us last week that if we had a game yesterday it would have been possible he could have gone. It just leads us to believe that it shouldn't be an issue this week, but we still need to get him a full week of practice and see how the knee responds to it."

Tate, signed as a free agent from Houston, was as upbeat Tuesday as he's been since his introductory news conference in March.

"It felt great to be out there again,'' said Tate. "I'm like a little kid in a candy store right now. We'll see how it goes. It's still early on. I have to go through a full practice and see how it feels. If it feels good, I'll go. If not we'll wait and see."

Tate said he's never worn any type of brace at any level of football, but will do so if necessary.

"(Adrian Peterson) played with it and had 200 yards one game, did you see that?'' said Tate. "It's all mental. But if that's going to protect me and if that's what I know is best for me, whatever I've got to do to get that mental aspect of it, I'll do it and play with it, but if not, we'll see where it goes.''

A fifth-year pro who toiled behind Arian Foster in Houston, Tate is eager to return to the starting role he waited so long to get.

"Of course (I am),'' he said. "If I'm going to be out there, then I want to be that guy, but we'll see what happens."

Despite carrying the ball just six times before spraining the knee on a 25-yard blast in Pittsburgh, he still leads the team with 6.8 yards per carry. Crowell is second with a 5.2-yard mark on his 27 attempts and leads the club with three rushing TDs. West is third with 4.3 yards per carry on his 47 runs and has two TDs.

"I'm proud of those guys,'' said Tate. "I'm not a guy who – I believe in myself and I know what I can do and I believe in my talents. I'm never one of those guys that wants to hate on the next guy. I'm proud of those guys. I'm proud of what they've done but I also think they could have done a better job, too, and I let those guys know that, because the better they are, the better the room's going to be. The better this team's going to be."

West, who averaged 3.0 yards per carry against the Ravens to Crowell's 5.0, seems the likeliest of the three to see his reps dwindle.

"We'll see,'' he said. "We've just got to go out there and compete with each other and our opponents. Whoever's got the hot hand and whoever will get us the win, that's who we're going to roll with."

Crowell, who scored on a 14-yard run against the Steelers, didn't seem worried about losing time.

"I don't question it,'' he said. "I just wanted to show the team what I could do. Him being back really helps me out a lot because I can learn a lot from him. I envision all of us being out there, getting time, getting reps, running the ball and being the best backfield in the league."

A big, bruising one-cut back, Crowell looks forward to Tate pushing him, like he did in training camp.

"The competition in practice and in the games, I feel like it brings out the best,'' Crowell said. "I feel like it makes us work harder to do better. We're just happy to have him back, to have any teammate back from an injury, that's a blessing. We can be first in the league. We're all three good backs.  We can be the top running backs in the league."

Pettine stressed that the division of reps, including Tate's "will be dependent on how we practice – how the week of practice goes. That's what competition allows us to do.''

But even running backs coach Wilbert Montgomery made it clear last week that Tate, who's averaged 4.8 yards in his three-plus seasons, is still his man.

"That''s what we brought Tate here for, to be the starter,'' said Montgomery. "He's the No. 1 running back in this offense. "Tate is beyond what the other guys' skill (level is) because he's had to climb that mountain. Right now, you can say we miss him. We miss his experience. We miss his leadership with the group. We''ll be open arms and welcome to have Ben back into the fold, so he can come out and help us win more ballgames."

The compliment was a testament to all the hard work Tate put in during training camp.

"That's when jobs are open,'' he said. "It means all the work I put in this summer obviously means something. I think that's what's important because -- not to knock those guys -- anybody could have a great game or two. It's how you put it together throughout the season. I think I've done that in this league. But it's good for them to get that experience. I think it helps our room get better. For this position group to get better is going to help our team. It's a long season. There are always going to be injuries. That's what's football."

Tate hasn't been surprised at Crowell's emergence. The undrafted rookie out of Alabama State was the SEC's Freshman of the Year in 2011 at Georgia, before he was kicked of the team for weapons charges that were later dismissed.

"I've always thought Crowell was a good back,'' he said. "I remember watching him play at Georgia. Even when he was at Alabama State, it was right down the road from where I was at. So I always thought he was a good player and I thought when he got here that he was a good player and it didn't change. He's a guy that's receptive to the help. He wants to get better. A guy like that, all you can do is help him and watch him grow and he's definitely come big leaps and bounds just from this summer.''

The two rookies backs have rushed for a combined five TDs -- one more than all of last season when offensive coordinator Norv Turner had little to work with after Trent Richardson was traded. The Browns have climbed to 10th in rushing this season after finished tied for 27th last season.

"I think it's the way this offense is built,'' said Tate. "For us to succeed, you have to run the ball and you have to score touchdowns running the ball. I can't see why that wouldn't stay the same at least or if not, get better. I'm sure it's not going to be every game you're going to score a rushing touchdown but I feel like you should be able to in this offense.''

Where Tate has been missed the most is in pass protection and catching balls out of the backfield on third down. In his absence, West and Crowell have combined for five catches for 30 yards. Last season, Tate caught 34 passes, fourth on the team, for 140 yards.

"I think those guys have good hands (too),'' said Tate. "Sometimes you have to know where to be and when to get there. I think my experience helps with that."

Tate was on pace for more than 80 yards in Pittsburgh before sprained the knee.

"I was feeling great about that,'' he said. "I'm also feeling good about whenever I get back on the field to start right back where I left off from."

Pettine noted that his embarrassment of riches in the backfield is a good problem to have.

"It's a long season, and we're looking forward to getting (Tate) back,'' he said. "He was playing at a high level before he got hurt. We want to be committed to running the football. When you have that mentality, you can't have enough good backs."

Watch Mary Kay Cabot and Tom Reed recap the news from Browns practice Tuesday in Berea. Also watch video on Ben Tate returning and the Browns talking about taking it one game at a time with favorable schedule in next five games. Watch video

BEREA, Ohio --  Cleveland Browns beat writers Mary Kay Cabot and Tom Reed fill you in on what happened at practice Tuesday as the Browns (1-2) begin their preparations for the game against the TennesseeTitans (1-3) at L.P. Field in Nashville. 

Topics discussed include:

• Running back Ben Tate returned to the practice field from his sprained knee suffered in the first game of the season.
• What does Tate's return mean for rookie running backs Terrance West and Isaiah Crowell and their reps in games.
• Jordon Cameron's sprained shoulder benefiting from the extra time off because of the bye week.
• Mike Pettine tells the team not to look forward despite the Browns have a favorable schedule for the next five games with their opponents having a combined record of 4-16.

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After the All-Star break, the Tribe ranked No. 2 in pitching but No. 11 in runs scored in the American League. They were 38-30.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The Indians finished the season ranked No. 7 in runs scored.

That's No. 7 in the American League, and that's hard to believe. Very hard to believe.

After the All-Star Game, the Tribe was No. 11 in runs scored. Now, that passed the eye test. Just as their No. 2 ranking in pitching after the All-Star break should match up with what most of us watched in 2014.

In the second half of the season, the Tribe could really pitch ... and hitting was harder than spelling the last name of Marc Rzepcyznski -- or even pronouncing it.

I confess that the excellent lefty reliever has been with the Tribe for nearly two years, and I still have to look up the spelling of his name each time before I write it. Just as it seemed the Indians were more likely to memorize every word in War and Peace than score more than three runs in a game.

I'm dwelling on the lack of offense partly because there is very good news -- pitching. They were 38-30, but think how much better it could have been with even average run production.

• Complete 2014 Indians stats and more.

Of the five members of the Tribe's rotation, Carlos Carrasco is the closest to free agency. He can't be a free agent until after the 2017 season.Chuck Crow, The Plain Dealer 

THE PITCHING

General Manager Chris Antonetti says the Indians have the youngest pitching staff in the American League. I'll take his word for it, because the only pitcher over 30 is 38-year-old Scott Atchison.

Even better news is that none of the starters -- Corey Kluber, T.J. House, Danny Salazar, Carlos Carrasco and Trevor Bauer -- are even close to free agency.

Carrasco can't become a free agent until after 2017. For Kluber, it's after 2018. For House, Bauer and Salazar -- it's after 2019.

So the pitching staff is set. Yes, pitchers get hurt. Or they lose it (think Justin Masterson). That's why manager Terry Francona has said he's open to adding more pitching, either a starter or in the bullpen.

But the talent in the rotation is real. They also have Zach McAllister and Josh Tomlin as possible rotation alternatives. McAllister needs to add another pitch to be an effective starter. At least the Tribe is receiving good work from him in the bullpen. The Indians believe Tomlin's surgically repaired elbow was fatigued in the last few months of the season.

Overall, the pitching appears to be in good shape -- their 3.56 ERA ranked No. 6 overall. In the second half, it was 3.12.

THE DEBATE

Hitting or pitching? If you are to pick an area upon which to build a team, always pick pitching.

What about the Tribe of the 1990s? The Indians actually led the American League in earned run average in 1995 and 1996. The lowest they ranked between 1995-2000 was No. 8. That was in 1997, when they were only 86-76. But they won a weak Central Division and sizzled in the playoffs, advancing to the World Series.

So I'd rather have the Tribe's pitching heading into 2014 than a bunch of hitters. Even in this age of declining offense, it's easier to find young bats than strong young arms who can perform.

Or at least, it should be.

Despite a big year from Michael Brantley, the Indians still struggled to score runs. Chuck Crow, The Plain Dealer 

THE HISTORY

In 2000, the average American League team batted .276 and scored 861 runs. In 2014, the average was .253 and 660. That's right, 15 years later -- the average team is scoring 201 fewer runs! And the batting average has dropped by 23 points!

It's amazing what drug testing will do.

Or how about this? The Angels led the A.L. in scoring with 773 runs -- that's 88 fewer than the 2000 average.

So let's not pretend the 1990s Indians are suddenly going to show up on the field. But there must be more runs in 2015.

I remember the moaning from some fans when the Indians passed up a chance to add Josh Willingham at midseason. He was the one "big bat" available. The Royals added Willingham, who hit .233 with two homers and six RBI in 73 at bats for Kansas City.

Not a lot of offense is available. But the Indians still must keep looking.

As the pitching was making a dramatic improvement in the second half of the season, the hitting was on a major decline -- and that was with Michael Brantley, Carlos Santana and Yan Gomes hitting well after the All-Star break.

They simply can't come back with the same basic lineup, hoping Nick Swisher, Michael Bourn and Jason Kipnis are healthy and have bounce-back seasons.

THE DEFENSE

Most fans know their team led the league with 116 errors. They tied Boston by allowing 72 unearned runs -- most in the A.L.

By contrast, here's how many unearned runs were allowed by A.L. playoff teams: Detroit (57), Kansas City (59), Oakland (48), Los Angeles Angels (40) and Baltimore (36).

This doesn't count double plays that failed to be turned and balls that weren't caught because of a lack of range, etc. Even with Jose Ramirez (or Francisco Lindor) opening the season at short, it's hard to imagine the defense making a major improvement if Lonnie Chisenhall (at third) and Kipnis (at second) remain at their current positions. They can play one, but not both, in the infield -- unless the Indians are willing to tolerate more shaky defense.

I'd love to see the Tribe find a third baseman who is at least average defensively and can hit 20 homers. Not sure who that guy happens to be, but the Indians should look in the trade market. And it may cost them one of their young arms.

Only 11 players hit 30 homers in the majors last season. The Indians are not likely to acquire one of them. Also, the Dolans have to find a way to increase payroll, even with the attendance being the lowest in the majors.

In many ways, the 85-77 record this season was more remarkable than the 92-70 a year ago. Give Francona some players, he can deliver victories.

But remember, it's not just scoring more runs that matters -- it's also giving up fewer. Improving the defense will help in that area.

Browns coach MIke Pettine urged his players to put the blinders on and think only about Tennessee, not the next five opponents, who have a combined record of 4-16.

BEREA, Ohio -- Mike Pettine has seen the future, and the future is....Sunday in Tennessee.

Don't talk to him about the next five games and how the Browns' opponents are a combined 4-16.

Don't bother mentioning that two of the teams are 0-4 (Jaguars and Raiders) and that one just fired their head coach (Raiders).

Don't go down the slippery slope of the Steelers (2-2) being the only one of the five to have won more than one game or that three of the five are at home.

Don't go there with him, and by all means, don't go there with his players.

"I addressed it in the team meeting (Tuesday) that it's for fans and media only,'' Pettine said about the Browns hitting this soft spot in their schedule. "It is hard to win in this league, especially on the road. I asked our guys, 'When was the last time that the Browns won a game on the road?'''

Most of the players stared at him blankly, but one easily produced the right answer: It was Sept. 22, 2013, a 31-27 victory over Minnesota.

 "It took a little bit,'' said Pettine. "I think (QB Brian) Hoyer got it right."

Of course, it's easy to remember when it was your first NFL victory and you have a gameball to remind you. But the Browns have lost seven straight on the road since that come-from-behind victory and have gone 4-12 since then.

"We can't think about our schedule or look at our next opponent beyond Tennessee,'' he said. "That's just not how we operate. I think it's a dangerous thing. Hey, I talked about being confident at 1-2, but it's so hard to win in this league. There's so much talent parity-wise that your mindset to me is equally important or more important than how you are physically.''

Pettine cited the upsets around the league over the weekend, including Tampa Bay's 27-24 victory over the Steelers in Pittsburgh and the Giants' 45-14 rout of the Redskins on Thursday night.

"Everybody had written that game off for Tampa that they had no chance,'' said Pettine. "Everybody had written off the Giants and look what they did. This is a 'you are in the moment' or 'what have you done for me lately' or any cliché you want to use. We can't afford to look ahead. We've got to learn how to win on the road."

Pettine's dad, Mike Sr., the unofficial consultant to the coaching staff, hammered home the 'don't look ahead' mantra.

"He gets the pulse of what's out there and will summarize it for me,'' said Pettine. "As old school as he is, there's a reason that it's 'one game at a time,' 'any given Sunday.' There's a reason those become clichés. It's because it's so true. You just can't afford to look ahead. Just look at the league this year. There's no one dominant team. You have a handful of undefeated (teams) left, but you just look at the parity. I think the league has exactly what they want, and you better be prepared to play week in and week out.''

Running back Ben Tate, a fifth-year pro, echoed those sentiments.

"This is the NFL, and I don't think that any part of the schedule is favorable,'' said Tate. "Who says the schedule's favorable? That's something y'all came up with, huh? We all get paid. We're all good athletes in this league. If you don't come to play, you're going to get beat. No one expected what happened to the Patriots last night (a 41-14 pounding by the Chiefs). They didn't come to play and what happened? I don't see a favorable part of the schedule. If you don't show up and play to the best of your abilities, you will get beat.''

Was he surprised that it's been more than a year since the Browns won on the road?

"I wasn't surprised,'' he said. "We're going to change that though. We're going to change that.''

One game at a time.

Tune into cleveland.com/hssports tonight at 8 p.m. for the debut of a live and interactive video show about all things high school football.

Tune into cleveland.com/hssports tonight at 8 p.m. for the debut of a live and interactive video show about all things high school football.

The FCC's decision won't prevent the league from blacking out a game if it so desires. Tuesday's ruling merely means the blackouts no longer have the federal government's backing.

BEREA, Ohio – For every old-time Browns fan who remembers what it was like to drive to Erie to watch a blacked-out home game, Tuesday's ruling from the FCC brought smiles.

For every fan who endured three hours of snowy reception while watching home games on channels from Steubenville or Ontario, the FCC's repeal of the NFL blackout rule produced cheers.

Federal regulators unanimously agreed to strike down a 40-year-old policy that blacked out NFL games in a 75-mile radius of home markets that didn't sell enough tickets to meet a league threshold.

Nostalgia aside, the decision won't have a dramatic impact on how we follow America's most popular sports league. Since the start of the 2013 season, the league has blacked out just two games.

Local fans have had the opportunity to watch every home Browns game since the team returned in 1999. There were four close calls in 2009, however, requiring the Browns and their sponsors and television partners to purchase the remaining tickets.

The last local blackout? The final home game of the 1995 season before Art Modell moved the franchise to Baltimore.

Even before the FCC announcement, area fans were in no danger of missing any televised home games this season as enough single-game tickets had been sold.

"It's a major testament to the Dawg Pound that we knew in early August that all Browns games would be available to fans on TV in Cleveland, extending a streak that dates back to the team's return in 1999," Browns president Alec Schneiner said in a statement. "Going forward, we are confident that the league and its teams will remain dedicated to providing fans exceptional in-stadium experiences while also reaching as many fans as possible through our TV partners."

Bengals fans last missed a local telecast in 2012.

The FCC's decision won't prevent the league from blacking out a game if it so desires. In its contracts that run until 2022, the NFL requires broadcast networks to black out a game if a franchise doesn't sell enough tickets at least 72 hours before kickoff. The NFL expects to keep that deal in place.

Tuesday's ruling merely means the blackouts no longer have the federal government's backing.

During last year's playoffs, the policy jeopardized home markets in Cincinnati, Green Bay and Indianapolis. Weather forecasts for the Green Bay game called for sub-zero temperatures. In the end, fans and corporate partners bought enough tickets to avoid the blackout.

The NFL's increasing popularity has led to fewer blackouts in each of the last four decades. In the days before multi-billion dollar television revenues, the league relied heavily on gate receipts and thought local telecasts discouraged fans from attending games.

Prior to 1973, all games were blacked out in the home markets regardless of whether the stands were packed or not.

The Browns' last title, a 27-0 win over the Colts in 1964, was not shown locally. It led to some fans to drive to places such as Erie to escape the 75-mile blackout radius. Such games also had diehards twisting antennas and turning TV rotors in hopes of finding a station out of market that carried them.

Former President Richard Nixon, a huge fan, even tried to cut a deal with the league to lift a ban on playoff games so he could watch the Redskins in 1972.

Browns coach Mike Pettine, who grew up in suburban Philadelphia, said his father used to travel across state lines to watch Jets games. For younger fans who buy DirecTV league packages or frequent local bars to watch out-of-market teams, the entire concept must seem unimaginable.

"I know that he crossed over the Delaware River and (went) into (New) Jersey to watch the Jets play," Pettine said. "I know that I've heard some fan horror stories of road trips they've had to make in order to see the team."

Cleveland Cavalier road games will be the most expensive ticket in league.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- LeBron James makes money and for himself and others. The Cavaliers are experiencing that right now, although they haven't raised ticket prices.

Good for them.

The same can't be said for opposing organizations. According Pro Basketball Talk, Cavalier road games will cost on the average of $411.77, the highest of any other NBA team.

Information was gathered via TickPick, a secondary ticket marketer. A distant second is the Los Angeles Lakers at an average of $280.44 per road game.

James is definitely the headliner and the reason road tickets will spike, but Kevin Love and Kyrie Irving are some pretty good opening acts. Not to mention the appeal of head coach David Blatt.

To get a chance to save some bucks to view the Cavaliers at Quicken Loans Arena this season, here's information on their new lottery system.

The Olympic champion was arrested for the second time on DUI charges early Tuesday in his hometown of Baltimore

Michael Phelps' comeback has been sidetracked by more trouble away from the pool.

The Olympic champion was arrested for the second time on DUI charges early Tuesday in his hometown of Baltimore, another embarrassment for a swimmer who came out of retirement this year with his sights set on competing at the Rio Games.

Phelps issued an apology that sounded very familiar to the ones he made after a drunken-driving arrest a decade ago, as well as when a British tabloid published a photograph in 2009 that showed him using a marijuana pipe.

"I understand the severity of my actions and take full responsibility," Phelps said in a statement. "I know these words may not mean much right now but I am deeply sorry to everyone I have let down."



Maryland Transportation Authority police charged the 18-time gold medalist after officers said he was caught speeding and failed field sobriety tests.

The arrest came about a month after the 29-year-old Phelps won three golds and two silvers at the Pan Pacific Championships in Australia, setting himself up to compete at next summer's world championships and at Rio in 2016.

It's too early to say if Phelps might face sanctions from USA Swimming, which took no action after his 2004 arrest but suspended him from competition for three months over the pot picture.

"The news regarding Michael Phelps and his actions are disappointing and unquestionably serious," the national governing body said in a statement. "We expect our athletes to conduct themselves responsibly in and out of the pool."

The U.S. Olympic Committee had a similar reaction. CEO Scott Blackmun said the organization was "surprised" by Phelps' arrest and "disappointed on a number of fronts."

Phelps was charged with driving under the influence, excessive speed and crossing double lane lines in the Fort McHenry Tunnel on Interstate 95 in Baltimore, according to the Maryland Transportation Authority.

If convicted on the DUI charge, he would face a maximum penalty of a year in jail, a $1,000 fine and the loss of his driver's license for six months. Under Maryland law, the latest case is not considered a second offense because his first DUI conviction occurred more than five years ago.

Phelps could face the wrath of his sponsors, though there was no immediate word of any company planning to drop him.

"It's too early to tell," said Don Rockwell, the CEO of Phelps' new swimsuit sponsor, California-based Aqua Sphere. "For the most part, we're supportive. We just need to wait and see what happens. This is not a deal-breaker for us, unless we find out something else that happened."

Phelps also has deals with Subway, Under Armour, Omega and Master Spas.

In early August, Phelps announced he was ending his long relationship with Speedo to sign the deal with Aqua Sphere. Just last week, according to Rockwell, company officials were in Baltimore working with Phelps on the sizing of his new suit, which he can begin wearing at meets starting Jan. 1.

First, he must deal with a more serious issue.

A Maryland Transportation Authority police officer was using radar about 1:40 a.m. when Phelps' white 2014 Land Rover came through the tunnel at 84 mph in a 45-mph zone, the agency said in a statement.

The officer stopped Phelps just beyond the tunnel's toll plaza.

"Mr. Phelps was identified as the driver by his driver's license and appeared to be under the influence," the statement said. "He was unable to perform satisfactorily a series of standard field sobriety tests."

Kelly Melhem, a spokesperson for the transportation agency, said department vehicles are equipped with in-car video recording devices. Officials were trying to determine if there was footage of Phelps' arrest, which could be used as evidence if the case goes to trial.

The statement said Phelps was cooperative during his arrest. He was taken to an authority station and later released.

After the London Olympics two years ago, Phelps followed through on his long-stated plan to retire, having won twice as many golds as anyone else and 22 medals overall.

Phelps returned to competition in April and set his sights on competing at the Rio Games, which would be his fifth Olympics.

His first DUI arrest came in 2004 on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Phelps received 18 months' probation, a $250 fine and was required to deliver a presentation on alcohol awareness to students at three high schools.

"I recognize the seriousness of this mistake," he said at the time. "I've learned from this mistake and will continue learning from this mistake for the rest of my life."

Phelps wasn't charged after the picture came to light of him using a marijuana pipe at a party in South Carolina. He did accept the suspension from USA Swimming for what he called "bad judgment" and "a mistake I won't make again."

One of his major sponsors, Kellogg Co., dropped him almost immediately. Subway stayed with him and remains one of his biggest backers.

Phelps' comeback is going well.

"We accomplished everything we wanted to," he said after the Pan Pacs. "We were able to find out some of the things I need to improve on over the next year, and things I want to improve on."

His biggest issue at the moment is outside the pool.

The NBA regular season doesn't start for another month, but the rivalry between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Washington Wizards has been renewed.

INDEPENDENCE, Ohio -- The NBA regular season doesn't start for another month, but the rivalry between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Washington Wizards has been renewed.

The war of words started on Monday when Bradley Beal told the assembled media that Washington had the best backcourt in the NBA with himself and point guard John Wall. Then Dion Waiters responded earlier this afternoon.

"That's nonsense," Waiters said following Tuesday's practice. "He's supposed to say that, but I think me and Ky are the best backcourt, young backcourt."

Hours after Waiters' comments went public, word spread to the nation's capital and Wall fired back at Waiters, according to Comcast Sportsnet in Washington.

"Why he thinks that? They haven't seen a playoff game yet, so when they make one they can start talking," said Wall, who is coming off his first All-Star appearance.

The Wizards point guard didn't stop there.

"If you're going to be the best backcourt, he has to start," Wall said about Waiters. "This is a year he's probably starting, so let's see if they can be the best backcourt. You've got to be a starting backcourt to say you're the best backcourt."

Move over Soulja Boy and DeShawn Stevenson. There are new participants in the rivalry this time around. It's not just Waiters and Irving versus Wall and Beal either. There's always been bad blood between James and Paul Pierce and that battle will continue since Pierce signed with the Wizards in the off-season.

With Indiana losing Paul George and Miami likely taking a step back, Washington and Cleveland could end up battling for Eastern Conference supremacy. Sure, that's a long way away. But for now, the fire between the Cavs and Wizards has been re-ignited.

A look at the Week 6 football matchups in the Chagrin Valley Conference.

A look at the Week 6 football matchups in the Chagrin Valley Conference.

Join us to talk Browns-Titans and more tonight on Browns Insider.

Tom Reed and Mary Kay Cabot will look ahead to the Titans and more tonight during Browns Insider.cleveland.com 

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- What should we expect from the Browns over the next five games? How will this team continue to integrate Johnny Manziel in the offense?

Watch Browns Insider with Mary Kay Cabot, Tom Reed and cleveland.com's Dan Labbe tonight at 7:30 p.m.

The trio will talk about all things Browns, including a look ahead to the next five games.

You can join them to ask your questions about the Browns in the comments section below.

Come back at 7:30 p.m. to watch the live show, now available both on desktop and mobile devices.