Byron Scott is disappointed in the Cavaliers' effort in the preseason loss.

UPDATED: 10:52 p.m.

Joshua Gunter / The Plain DealerRamon Sessions doesn't have room for a shot as CSKA Moscow's Dmitry Sokolov applies the pressure in the second quarter of Saturday's preseason game at The Q.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Every game this version of the Cavaliers plays in the preseason is an opportunity for new coach Byron Scott to learn a little more about who, exactly, this team is.

Though it's difficult to peg an identity on a squad with three-fifths of the likely starters sitting on the bench, Saturday's 90-87 loss to CSKA Moscow still provided valuable lessons.

They learned a little about preparing for an opponent, a little about staging comebacks and a little more about how rotations might work when the regular season begins.

But most of all, it was a study in defense, as the Cavaliers struggled to contain a sweet-shooting Moscow squad that knocked in 47 percent of its field goals, and 11 3-pointers, in all. It was a chance for Scott and the Cavaliers to see what might happen when rotations are a step slow or screens aren't fought through, and when hot shooters are lost on the floor.

It was also a chance for the players to see what a disappointed Scott looks like.

"Not good," Scott assessed the defense. "We laid on a lot of screens, we didn't do a good job of locking and trailing, and the bigs didn't do a good job of helping. We weren't ready."

Defense, of course, is about effort most of all. Scott was disappointed that a Moscow team that had lost to two other NBA teams in a preseason swing through the league was able to shoot so well throughout.

Ramunas Siskauskas, a 6-6 small forward, knocked in three 3-pointers within two minutes in the third quarter to give Moscow a 60-49 lead, an advantage they would not surrender. Siskauskas, who led all scorers with 22 points on 8-of-20 shooting, hit most of his long-distance shots with Jamario Moon defending him -- on the same night when Scott said Moon might have the starting small forward position sewn up.

True, the Cavaliers played again without a handful of potential starters Saturday.

Anderson Varejao sat one more game, still uncomfortable with the unfamiliar Princeton offense after missing more than a week of training camp following the death of his grandfather. Mo Williams still is nursing a strained right groin, and Antawn Jamison rested the sprained left knee suffered in Thursday's game against San Antonio. Anthony Parker, too, sat with a sprained right ring and middle finger suffered Thursday.

"We can't use that as a crutch that we had four of our best players on the bench," Scott said.

Even without those players, the Cavaliers built a 10-point lead midway through he second quarter, thanks mostly to the offensive output of Daniel Gibson. The player Scott has praised most this preseason had 12 first-quarter points, including a four-point play when he was fouled on a 3-pointer. He also had a pretty assist on a floating lob that Ryan Hollins slammed down for a 37-29 lead in the second quarter.

But a fourth-quarter rally by a lineup of backups -- featuring guards Manny Harris and Danny Green and forward Leon Powe -- could not overcome the deficit. The Cavaliers clawed to within 88-87 with 7.5 seconds remaining, but that was it.

A handful of CSKA Moscow fans in a corner of The Q waved flags and chanted cheers for their team.

"I hope this is a lesson," Scott said.

Sasha Kaun, a Cavaliers 2008 draft pick in his second season with Moscow CSKA, played sparingly while nursing a knee injury. He grabbed two rebounds and had two blocks in 12 minutes. Trajan Langdon, a former Cavaliers' first-round draft pick in 1999, had 14 points on 6-of-9 shooting.

As the clock ticked down on the Buckeyes' undefeated season, the Wisconsin offensive line proved to be just as formidable as OSU feared.

Andy Manis / Associated PressIn the sight that was repeated throughout Saturday's game, John Clay bursts free for some hard-earned yard in Wisconsin's 31-18 victory over Ohio State at Madison, Wis.

MADISON, Wis. -- On the clock as the Buckeyes and the Badgers renewed hostilities Saturday night.

7:01 p.m.: Wisconsin coach Bret Bielema leads his team out of the tunnel to U2's "Where the Streets Have No Name." About 10 seconds later, Ohio State hits the field to boos.

7:06: The pressbox begins to sway, for good reason. Wisconsin's David Gilreath returns the opening kickoff 97 yards for a touchdown. Compared to what happens next, at least this pain is quick.

7:14: This hurts Ohio State more. A kickoff return can be passed off as a one-time thing, but Wisconsin goes to work, with a six-play, 58-yard touchdown drive in which the Badgers continually blow the Buckeyes off the ball. But this won't be the greatest pain either.

7:34: This? Now this is like torture for Ohio State fans, and it will take up 10:04 on the clock and 17 minutes in real time. Ironically, this Wisconsin drive begins with Ohio State's first decent defensive play against the Badgers' run game, as OSU defensive lineman John Simon knives into the backfield and trips up John Clay for only a 1-yard gain.

7:35: The Badgers face a third down and though the Buckeyes do a better job plugging up the hole, James White still manages to pick up the first down with a 3-yard gain. So even the not-so-good Wisconsin runs gain 3 yards.

7:38: On the seventh play, the Badgers try their second pass, and for a moment, it looks like OSU safety Jermale Hines is going to step into the throwing lane. But Scott Tolzien's pass gets past Hines, who is just a half-step late, and hits Isaac Anderson for a nine-yard gain and a first down.

7:40: Huge hole for John Clay, and he turns it into a 13-yard gain on the drive's ninth play. The Badgers are just getting started.

7:42: It's fourth down for the first time on the drive, but the Badgers convert it easily, as Tolzien picks up two yards on a quarterback sneak when he only needed one yard.

7:46: The first quarter ends with Wisconsin up, 14-0. The break doesn't slow the Badgers.

7:49: On the 16th play of the drive, Gilreath is wide open and Tolzien finds him for an 18-yard gain to the 7, and defensive end Nathan Williams hits Tolzien after he throws the ball, the personal foul penalty sending Wisconsin down to the 3.

7:49: Clay for zero.

7:50: Clay for two.

7:51: Clay for the touchdown, as the Badgers go up, 21-0. The drive is stunning, a 19-play, 89-yard march that takes 10:04 off the clock. The dominance of the Wisconsin offensive line is unquestioned. It will show itself again.

9:23: Believe it or not, the Wisconsin drive is not the longest drive of the night. When they need it in the fourth quarter, the Buckeyes answer with a 19-play, 94-yard drive that takes 9:56 off the clock. The offensive line isn't quite as dominating, but the Buckeyes hold their own, giving Terrelle Pryor time to throw and Dan Herron some room to run. The best thing either team can do at this point is keep the other offense off the field, but the Buckeyes after their touchdown and 2-point conversion cuts the Wisconsin lead to 21-18, have to kick it back to the Badgers. Those are the rules.

9:34: More pain. This doesn't take 10 minutes, but is long enough to finish off the Buckeyes. Wisconsin stomps 73 yards in 10 plays and takes a 28-18 lead on a James White 12-yard touchdown run, the drive taking up 4:36.

9:45: Late in the fourth quarter Wisconsin's John Clay picks up five yards. It puts him over 100 yards on the night, making him the first running back in 30 games to gain 100 yards against Ohio State. It seems like he gained even more.

Because when the Badgers wanted to run, they ran.

Wisconsin struck at the heart of the Buckeyes with a game-opening special teams touchdown and then rolled all over them behind a devastating offensive line.

UPDATED: 12:23 a.m.

Chris Russell / Columbus DispatchOhio State's Dane Sanzenbacher paid the price for this third-quarter reception, but he and the rest of the Buckeyes could never get their equilibrium in falling hard from No. 1 in a 31-18 loss to Aaron Henry (7) and the Wisconsin Badgers Saturday night.

• OSU report card | Best and worst | On the clock
• A stunning dose of domination from Badgers: Bill Livingston

MADISON, Wis. -- An Ohio State game hadn't felt like this since "41-14," since the undefeated No. 1 Buckeyes were dismantled by the Florida Gators in a national championship loss after the 2006 season that created a numeric shorthand for OSU pain.

Saturday night at Wisconsin, at least undefeated No. 1 Ohio State fought back. The final score wasn't so lopsided.

But in the way that the No. 18 Wisconsin Badgers struck at the heart of the Buckeyes with a game-opening special teams touchdown and then rolled all over them behind a devastating offensive line, this 31-18 loss at Camp Randall Stadium will sting the OSU football program almost as much.

"The bottom line is we didn't play like we should have," said OSU senior defensive tackle Dexter Larimore, "like the No. 1 team in the country should play."

This wasn't the Purdue upset last season, when a young OSU football fell victim to its own hubris as much as to an underdog. This wasn't even the 2007 Illinois loss, when an Ohio State team that was surprising many people with a national title chase lost after an 10-0 start -- and then still found a way into the national title game.

This was like 2006. This was a perfect, top-ranked Ohio State team that had been gearing toward the national championship since the first day of preseason, if not since the day after their Rose Bowl win, having its legs cut out.

The hopes for a national title were snuffed out almost as completely as they were that January night in Arizona.

"It kind of feels like your dreams are slipping away," senior running back and captain Brandon Saine said. "But we know anything can happen in college football, and we've got to finish out the season well."

OSU coach Jim Tressel, of course, said the Buckeyes (6-1, 2-1 Big Ten) weren't thinking about anything other than how to get better tomorrow, and there's plenty that should keep the Buckeyes busy, especially on defense.

Wisconsin controlled the game on the lines in the first half while storming to a 21-3 lead, and the Badgers out-gained Ohio State, 336 yards to 311 in the game and 184 yards to 155 on the ground.

"They lined up toe-to-toe and just beat us," senior linebacker Brian Rolle said. "It was like, 'Did they really just do what I think they did?' They just ran and ran. They didn't trick us."

"If I had to bet, it wasn't anything earthshaking," Tressel said. "It was just execution."

It started from the first kick, which Wisconsin's David Gilreath returned 97 yards for a touchdown, the fourth special-teams touchdown and second kickoff return for a touchdown allowed by the Buckeyes this season.

"It's definitely frustrating," said Saine, who was part of that kick coverage. "It was huge for them to start off the game like that and it kind of depleted us. We tried to regroup but it didn't happen until the second half."

That's because the Badgers (6-1, 2-1) didn't let up, putting together time-consuming 58- and 89-yard drives while surging to a 21-0 lead, the OSU defense almost helpless to stop them.

"We got our butts kicked," senior defensive lineman Cameron Heyward said.

When the Buckeyes answered in the second quarter, they were held to a field goal after three runs from the 4 that didn't come close to working. But it did get better later for the Buckeyes, who scored touchdowns on their first two drives in the second half and cut the lead to 21-18 by converting a 2-point conversion after the second score.

"I was proud of the way the kids fought back," Tressel said. "It was 21-18 and it felt like we had a bit of momentum."

That was crushed by the Wisconsin offensive line and by quarterback Scott Tolzien, who completed three passes early in what would be a 10-play, 73-yard drive that gave the Badgers a 28-18 lead with 6:57 to play.

When the Buckeyes were forced into a fourth-and-10 on their next drive from their own 29, Tressel elected to punt with just over six minutes left, after talking about going for it, and the Badgers salted away the win with another scoring drive.

Unlike the 2006 team, the Buckeyes have more games left to redeem themselves. But it's very likely they won't reach the goals this season that the players, and a lot of fans, thought were there for the taking after a 6-0 start.

"It hurts," center Mike Brewster said.

As Tressel was speaking at the postgame podium, he was interrupted from an announcement over the Camp Randall speakers.

"For your safety, please get off the goalposts," begged the announcer, unable to stop a sea of red that had swarmed the field after the win.

That's just how the Ohio State defense had felt for 60 minutes.

An early misplay from an unusual formation was not a good omen for Ohio State.

UPDATED: 12:31 a.m.

Chris Russell / Columbus DispatchWhen the Buckeyes attempted to use the "pistol" formation, they shot themselves in the foot -- as Dan Herron had to scramble to recover a wayward pitch from Terrelle Pryor in the first quarter.

MADISON, Wis. -- The best and worst from a memorable night in Camp Randall.

Worst formation/The pistol: The Buckeyes broke out the look they first tried in 2008, albeit briefly, on their first drive on the game.

One first-and-10 from the 43, on their second offensive play, the Buckeyes lined up in the shorter shotgun, with Terrelle Pryor closer to the line and Dan Herron directly behind him. The Buckeyes then ran an option left, and Pryor's pitch to Herron was high, hit the ground and had to be knocked out of bounds by a diving Herron to keep possession.

The play went for a 12-yard loss, and for an offense that had seemed to develop a pretty good identity in the first six games of the season, it seemed odd to come out with something out of the ordinary so early.

Best formation/The wildcat: Well, the first time is was a miserable failure. The Buckeyes tried it from the 3 in the first half and got nowhere, Dan Herron lining up in the shotgun with Pryor split out as a receiver. Herron took the direct snap and gained only a yard.

But the second time was better. On a first down from the 13 on the opening drive of the second half, when another field goal try would have been failure, Pryor split out wide again and Herron again took a direct snap. This time, he sliced off left tackle, took care of one tackle attempt with a stiff arm, and hit the end zone to cut Wisconsin's lead to 21-10.

Best catch: On third-and-6 from the 37, Ohio State needed another first down to keep a drive alive, with the Wisconsin lead still at 21-10 late in the third quarter. Pryor rolled to his right, multiple Badgers in pursuit, then lofted a ball back over the middle of the field.

Senior Dane Sanzenbacher, who had suffered a concussion on a big hit at Camp Randall Stadium two years ago, went high to grab the pass and was knocked nearly upside down as he tumbled to the turf. But he held on for the 9-yard gain and the first down.

Worst feel for the game: Bowled over by Wisconsin's blockers all game, pancaked as often as the bill of fare at the IHOP, Ohio State's only chance to win was to convert a fourth-and-10 at its own 29 with 6:29 to play, down 10 points.

Instead, Jim Tressel ordered a punt, hoping for a turnover to switch the field poisiton. The hope was that a game-long trend of ruthless Badger offensive efficiency would suddenly reverse itself. But a long game of keep-away -- converting the fourth-and-long, scoring a touchdown, and then recovering an onside kick -- looked like a better shot. That's how overwhelmed the OSU defense was.

Bill Livingston contributed to this report.

Wisconsin's 19-play, 89-yard touchdown drive, which ate up 10:04 in the first and second quarters, is something the Badgers should remember forever.

Andy Manis / Associated PressIn a stunning repeat of a season-long problem, David Gilreath gave the Badgers an electrifying start to the evening with his TD return of the opening kickoff.

INSIDE THE VEST
For a coach who values special teams so much, Jim Tressel will never forget the way Saturday night's game started.
The Buckeyes have been a great Big Ten road team in recent years, and so much of that is about seizing momentum and silencing the crowd. But in the conference's toughest venue, the Buckeyes immediately gave Wisconsin the edge with a 97-yard kickoff return for a touchdown to open the game.
It was easy. Any team can make a special teams mistake. It's one play where every mistake is magnified and one wrong step can lead to six points. But more than halfway into this season, special teams mistakes for the Buckeyes are now a trend.
Whatever needed to be fixed hasn't been fixed. That reflects on the entire team, because the entire staff and entire roster makes special teams a priority.
Somehow this season, that hasn't been enough.
— Doug Lesmerises

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Some fast impressions in the moments after the Badgers' victory Saturday night.

A -- Wisconsin's offensive line

We highlighted the Badgers' 1,600 pounds of beef on the offensive line during the week, but they deserve to be singled out again, each in their own sentence.

Left tackle Gabe Carimi. Left guard John Moffitt. Center Peter Konz. Right guard Kevin Zeitler. Right tackle Ricky Wagner.

Their dominance started immediately, but especially Wisconsin's 19-play, 89-yard touchdown drive, which ate up 10:04 in the first and second quarter, is something the Badgers should remember forever. That is how you run block.

A -- Ohio State's first drive of the second half

A zero wasn't an option. A three wasn't an option. Down, 21-3, the Buckeyes needed to take the kickoff to open the third quarter and score their first touchdown of the game. So they did. Their 10-play, 77-yard drive kept hope alive, and the Buckeyes did it by not hurrying.

On the initial third down of the drive, the offensive line gave Terrelle Pryor plenty of time and he stayed in the pocket and found Dane Sanzenbacher over the middle. Pryor later hit Sanzenbacher with a nice 24-yard completion, but they also ran the ball well with Pryor and Dan Herron. The Buckeyes got what they needed to survive.

F -- Ohio State's kickoff coverage

The fear of the fan base was that the special teams mishaps in other games would show up and bite the Buckeyes when it really mattered. There could not have been a worse time than at Wisconsin, yet the Badgers' David Gilreath reached the end zone on an 97-yard kickoff return to the start the game with ease.

He's good at what he does -- the return gave him the Big Ten record for career kickoff return yardage. But the Buckeyes made it look easy for him, with not even a real missed tackle on the play because the lane he had to run was so open.

F -- Ohio State's playcalling at the 3

The Buckeyes, down 21-3, had first-and-goal at the Wisconsin 3 and then never came close to a successful play before settling for a field goal. First down was a Terrelle Pryor sweep to the right for a loss of one yard. Second down was Dan Herron taking a direct snap in the wildcat formation for a gain of one. Third down was a repeat of first down, with Pryor on a clear keeper to the right for a loss of one.

Never did the Buckeyes let Pryor roll out of the pocket with a run-pass option. No lobs to DeVier Posey. Not even a straight running play with Herron, giving the line a chance to open a real hole. Then the Buckeyes took three points when a real shot at seven was so badly needed.

It's Steelers Sunday, so the majority of Browns fans contributing to this week's mailbag want to talk ... well, quarterbacks, of course.

Tracy Boulian / The Plain DealerBrett Ratliff could have remained with the Patriots after the Browns made him a contract offer last week, but decided the possibility of playing time was more important.

Hey, Tony: Can any team sign any player from any other team's practice squad? Is there any compensation to that team (draft pick) involved? -- Dan Kopp, Mansfield

Hey, Dan: Any team can sign a player from another team's practice squad. The player is not required to accept an offer from another team, however. He can elect to stay on the practice squad. There is no draft pick compensation involved. The only requirement is the player is guaranteed three game checks with the new team. In the case of Brett Ratliff, the Patriots offered him the same deal the Browns offered, but Ratliff chose to sign with the Browns because he felt he had a better opportunity of actually playing with them.

Hey, Tony: The Browns have been moving in the right direction and establishing a run game. That being said, it seems that we have no deep threats. What is going on with rookie Carlton Mitchell? At 6-3, 215 lbs., and a 4.3 40-yard dash, he would have to be a deep threat to opposing defenses. -- Eamon L., Cleveland

Hey Eamon: Mitchell may be the fastest player on the team, but he is a project. Look how Mohamed Massaquoi and Brian Robiskie struggled as rookie players. Seems like any time the Browns send a receiver on a deep route, the quarterback throws the ball out of bounds, anyway.

Hey, Tony: Eric Mangini's game of not naming a starting QB until the last minute has been going on since he's been in Cleveland. Is it getting as old to you as it is for the rest of us? Wouldn't it be great someday for a Browns coach to say, "This is my QB, game plan all you want, you won't stop us." How much game plan changes could opposing teams need anyway -- regardless of who starts ... they are QBing the Browns! -- Brett Ormsby, Bay Village

Hey, Brett: I long for the day a Browns coach says something like that.

Hey, Tony: I definitely feel like this Browns team is greatly improved over last year, especially on offense. However, one thing that has always bothered me was that they never seem to re-sign their existing players before they get to free agency, like other teams do. I would point to Lawrence Vickers, Matt Roth, Joe Thomas, Phil Dawson and Eric Wright as guys who are contributors that have their contracts coming up in the next year or so that we will probably end up losing. In a year with no salary cap, wouldn't this have been an opportune time to lock some of them up long-term? Especially Vickers and Thomas who may be the best at their position! I feel that this is a major reason why we are always in a state of rebuilding. We draft poorly, and then don't keep the guys that we do hit on. -- Jim Becker, Broadview Heights

Hey, Jim: You're right about everything except Thomas. He is signed through 2011. Otherwise, it would seem the perfect time to sign up potential free agents valuable to the team. Most teams, however, are refraining from doing that because of the uncertainty of the labor situation.

John Kuntz / The Plain DealerShaun Rogers might be valuable to a contender needing some beef on the front line, but his jumbo paycheck would scare most teams away, says Tony Grossi.

Hey, Tony: The Browns need young talent on both sides of the ball. The way to build that talent is through the draft. Why not trade Shaun Rogers to help facilitate getting another draft pick? -- Molly Treharn, Boardman

Hey, Molly: Perhaps a huge obstacle to a trade of Rogers is his contract. He's making $6.9 million in base salary this year, $5.5 million in 2011 and $5.6 million in 2012. Any team trading for Rogers inherits those hefty salary figures.

Hey, Tony: With no disrespect intended, why is Vince Lombardi seemingly more (or much more) revered than Paul Brown? -- Neuronsy Adams, Toledo

Hey, Neuronsy: I understand your point completely. Both are legendary figures. Lombardi took the Green Bay Packers to six NFL championship games in nine years and won five. He is the only NFL coach to win three consecutive championships. Because the latter two become known as the Super Bowl, they boosted Lombardi's legend. NFL history did not begin with the Super Bowl; it just seems like the league regards it as such. Brown coached the Browns to six NFL championship games in six years and won three -- all before the Super Bowl term was coined. The NFL championships were preceded by four successive championships in the All-America Football Conference. Brown was a more accomplished innovator and I would make the case that he mentored more future great coaches than Lombardi. Brown went on to found a second NFL organization, the Cincinnati Bengals, and coached them to a Super Bowl appearance. Still, Lombardi has been romanticized as the greatest coach in NFL history. The truth is, if Brown had not established such a powerhouse in Cleveland in the 1950s, and shipped numerous quality players to Green Bay in trades, Lombardi might never have achieved the success that he had. Because of his trades, some wags have said Brown actually built two dynasties -- his own in Cleveland and the Packers in Green Bay.

Hey, Tony: Several years ago, I went to see the Browns in Tampa, and I was dressed up like a Browns fan should be. Even ran into the Bone Lady on the street. Anyway, I had to use the men's room, and while waiting in one of the many lines, a bunch of Tampa Bay fans started harassing me. It kept building, and I was trying to handle it in good humor. Then, one of the Bucs fans said, "Hey, guys, leave him alone. They didn't even have a team for three years." The others groaned in agreement, and there was peace, but frankly, I think I preferred the harassment to the pity. -- Seren Hrachian, Athens, N.Y.

Hey, Seren: I know how you feel, pal. A good, late friend of mine used to call me the beat writer for the 100 Years War.

Hey, Tony: If the Browns lose to the Steelers I have to either get a shaved head or a Mohawk due to a bet with a bandwagon Steelers fan. What would be your pick? I hope this doesn't count as a uniform question. -- Caleb Dotson, Columbus

Hey, Caleb: No brainer. Shaved head.

Hey, Tony: I have seen all four stadiums in our division and have been underwhelmed by all four. I must admit though that Cincy and Baltimore at least look better on TV. What are the Browns waiting on? Where is the FieldTurf? -- Patrick Yarnevic, Lakewood

Hey, Patrick: I would rate the stadiums this way: 1. Baltimore's M&T Bank Stadium. 2. Pittsburgh's Heinz Field. 3. Cleveland Browns Stadium. 4. Cincinnati's Paul Brown Stadium. Of the four, the Browns' stadium hosts the fewest football games -- by far. If more games were played on the field, there would be greater impetus to have the natural field replaced by FieldTurf.

Hey, Tony: I'm fascinated by the size of the Browns front office. They now have over 150 people working, about three times what they put on the field. Lots of overhead. Do the Browns make any money considering the size of the front office and that they have the lowest ticket prices in the NFL? -- Steve Bohnenkamp, Geneva, Ill.

Hey, Steve: Keen observation -- one that has also been made by the owner, from what I understand.

Hey, Tony: Has C.J. Mosley vaporized or is he still on the Browns roster? PUP List? -- Mike B, Dover

Hey, Mike: Mosley was waived by the Browns in September and recently signed by Jacksonville.

Chuck Crow / The Plain DealerSeneca Wallace is out of action for a while, but that doesn't mean he isn't the focus of several Browns fans.

Hey, Tony: I saw Seneca Wallace's "hot feet" during the preseason. Why aren't we seeing any plays designed around this potential "fifth man" in the backfield? Are they too afraid of him getting hurt? -- JC Sullivan, Northfield

Hey, JC: Your question falls into that vast category of questions about the Browns' offense that I can not intelligently explain.

Hey, Tony: I have seen enough of Seneca Wallace to believe he should be starting and possibly the answer to our QB problem. (Though he just got hurt, I hope it's not serious) What better way to learn than sit for more than one year? I like the way he doesn't lock in on one WR and can make the accurate throws. I know he's short and hasn't really been considered a starting QB, but this guy poses a problem to defenses. What do you think? -- Rick DelPrado, Middletown, Conn.

Hey, Rick: Wallace likely will be sidelined for three or more weeks with a high ankle sprain. I like a lot of things he does. But if he is your No. 1 quarterback, I don't believe the team is going anywhere. I think he is a very good NFL backup quarterback.

Hey, Tony: What the heck is the deal with the field conditions at the stadium? When being run on, the middle of the field looks like a scene from the dust bowl. The sides are greener but I thought I saw some kicked up dirt there too. What gives? -- Mark Hartshorn, Madison

Hey, Mark: I understand the middle of the field was just resodded.

Hey, Tony: Is there something wrong with Joe Thomas this season? I just finished watching the Atlanta game and he got his rear end kicked (as well as getting Wallace injured) and it seems that he's been mediocre all year. What gives? -- Chris Pappas, Westlake

Hey, Chris: I don't believe Thomas is off to the greatest season of his career. He's made the Pro Bowl three years in a row. To make it to a fourth, he'd better turn it around quickly. I thought he was literally and figuratively dehydrated by the hot summer training camp and began the year under weight, and hasn't recovered his previous form yet.

Hey, Tony: Let's be honest here, the Browns offense against the Falcons was like trying to drive a car with one wheel. I saw the Browns attempt to rush the ball and fail. Should the Browns try Cribbs at RB on third down, since Hillis is banged up? Is there any possibility the Browns bring back Chris Jennings? He is bigger and more physical than Jerome Harrison especially since James Davis is a no-show. The defense looks much improved though (the defense against the Falcons worked their tails off). Do you blame all this on lack of talent in the offense? Should we be calling out Holmgren/Heckert? Thanks! -- D.A. Pimley, Centreville, Va.

Hey, D.A.: I've maintained for years that Cribbs' talents would be better utilized in the backfield. Since you submitted your question, the Browns traded Harrison to Philadelphia for running back Mike Bell. As for Mike Holmgren and Tom Heckert, they have elected to back off once the regular season started and leave the team in the hands of Eric Mangini.

Hey, Tony: Is Cleveland a black hole for QBs, or are the QBs they get "black holes?" -- Dan Desai, Westlake

Hey, Dan: The only quarterback who came through Cleveland and had any success after he left was Jeff Garcia. So I would have to say it's the latter.

Hey, Tony: What was the logic of putting in a still-injured Delhomme instead of McCoy after Wallace went down with an injury? I know that McCoy is expected to "sit and watch" this year, but this move screams "wasted draft pick" and shows the staff has no confidence at all in McCoy. I mean really, does anyone honestly believe McCoy would have had a worse half than what Delhomme delivered? -- Tim, Winter Haven, Fla.

Hey, Tim: The coach rolled the dice that Delhomme could bring home a winner with moxie and guile. Didn't happen and Delhomme aggravated his high ankle sprain. Delhomme got a lot more reps at practice than McCoy during the week. McCoy simply was unprepared to play for an extended period of time.

John Bazemore / Associated PressGeorgia receiver A.J. Green is exactly the kind of deep threat that intrigues several fans already looking ahead to the 2011 draft.

Hey, Tony: While I think this team has shown great improvement over last year, we are certainly still lacking in overall talent. That being said, there are glaring holes on the D Line and WR (need speed) and still have that pesky franchise QB question to answer. Looking ahead, what is the greatest need based on what you have seen so far? Personally, I would love Marcell Dareus, Andrew Luck or AJ Green. -- John Smith, Dayton

Hey, John: Quarterback. I begin and ends with that position. You have to have a quarterback and you have to have luck. Sounds like they could fill both needs with one player this year, Andrew Luck from Stanford.

Hey, Tony: At what point do we question Holmgren's credibility or will to win when his coaching staff continues to let games slip away. Where is his leadership? -- Eliot Clasen, Cape Coral, Fla.

Hey, Eliot: When he brought Mangini back, Holmgren vowed to not interfere with his coaching. Some view that as giving Mangini the rope to hang himself.

Hey, Tony: This year's team is drastically improved over last year. Any fan that can not see that is a misinformed Browns fan. [The record] is disappointing but they are in every game and at the very least we fans are not leaving or turning the game off at halftime like years past.

But listening to fans on Browns postgame shows and comments on the message board, can fans honestly think that they know better than the men in the front office? Did fans really expect this team to make a dramatic improvement and make the playoffs? Fans need to take a step back and realize that the passion they have for this team is making them sound very unintelligent. -- Matt R, Hartville

Hey, Matt: I said since training camp that this team was better than last year's 5-11 team. I thought they let the first two games slip away. Now they are in the midst of the inevitable avalanche of injuries. Unless things turn around, we will see another coaching change after the season.

Hey, Tony: Is there anything to the theory that the Browns lose consistently because the coaching staff doesn't make the necessary adjustments at halftime and their talent level is inferior to most teams and eventually the better team wins? -- Steve Aronowitz, Great Neck, N.Y.

Hey, Steve: I think it is a combination of both factors.

Hey, Tony: I heard your chat Monday and you said that you believe Wallace is a career backup. You said the team made a concerted effort to get the ball to Mohamed Massaquoi. But why, based on that, do you think he is a backup? He is in a new system, and is just getting his feet wet with this non-west coast offense. Am I just wishful thinking that even though he is vertically challenged he can't be our QB for a few years? He looks like a Pro Bowler compared to Anderson and Quinn. -- Rick DelPrado, Middletown, Conn.

Hey, Rick: I don't think Wallace sees the whole field. I don't recall the offense running a single slant route with Wallace at quarterback, perhaps because of his height disadvantage. I don't see a wide variety of pass routes, in fact, only "go routes." In the three close games that he started and finished, I did not see him make a play in crunch time to pull out the victory. The only game they won, Wallace handed off to Peyton Hillis on the game-clinching drive. All that said, I agree he is a big improvement over Anderson and Quinn. But it's still not good enough to take the team anywhere.

Hey, Tony: When the NFL publishes its "points allowed" stat ranking defenses, does it include points actually allowed by the offense and/or special teams? As in pick sixes, safeties, punt and kick off returns? Or is it just the points that the defense itself allows? Because it would seem that our defense comes off much better it you don't count the "help" our offense has given. -- John J. Berezo, Culloden, W.Va.

Hey, John: There are rankings based solely on points allowed and rankings based on points allowed by the defense.

Hey, Tony: Do you think the Browns would trade Joe Haden, T.J. Ward, Montario Hardesty, Colt McCoy, Shawn Lauvao, Larry Asante, Carlton Mitchell and Clifton Geathers for Sam Bradford? Do you think they offered their entire 2010 draft for the No. 1 pick to take him? Would St. Louis have taken it? -- Howard Schwartz, Bettendorf, Iowa

Hey, Howard: No, St. Louis would not have taken the entire Browns' draft for the No. 1 overall pick. It would have taken something comparable to the Browns' first- and third-round picks in 2010 and at least their first in 2011.

Hey, Tony: Of all people I would have thought Holmgren would have made QB priority No. 1 and yet he brought a retread and a career back-up that he rarely won with in Seattle. Where is the franchise guy and what are we waiting for? -- Michael Spitale, Galena

Hey, Michael: Holmgren considered Sam Bradford the only "franchise quarterback" in the 2010 draft, and he was unable or unwilling to meet the price for him in a trade. He will reload and try again for the next great hope in 2011.

Hey, Tony: I made the Falcons game last week, I have to ask you about the touchdown pass against Sheldon Brown. Do we have on our roster a QB who could make that throw and/or a WR who could run that route and make that catch? This team still lacks talent on the skill positions. -- Rod Sauer, Athens

Hey, Rod: The answers are no and no, and, you're right.

Hey, Tony: Does the decimation of the QB position buy Mangini time, or sink him? On one hand, I can see management saying he didn't have a QB for X number of games. On the other hand, it really is all about wins and losses, and this isn't going to help the win column grow at all. -- Sean Samuels, Chandler, Ariz.

Hey, Sean: I believe Mangini's future in Cleveland rests entirely on wins and losses.

Hey, Tony: Will someone please ask the Browns why is James Davis on the inactive list when he's not hurt? Why won't they put him in? -- Brenda Lockhart, Cleveland

Hey, Brenda: Don't know. Davis certainly has had trouble staying healthy when he is made active. But now the team has put all its eggs in the Peyton Hillis basket. It seems that any offensive player with speed is considered not the right fit.

Hey, Tony: Why is Richard Bartel not on our roster? He was nothing but impressive when given the chance in preseason. Yes, it was against third stringers, but other Cleveland QBs have been killed by third-string defenses and still had more of a chance in Cleveland -- Ken Dorsey and Brett Ratliff are good examples of that. Bartel had another great preseason with the Redskins and was cut. Can you shed any light on this? -- Clint Mayo, Wichita, Kan.

Hey, Clint: For one thing, you are overvaluing performance against third-stringers in preseason games. Bartel is currently a backup quarterback with the Sacramento Mountain Lions of the UFL.

Hey, Tony: At what point in any given season was the highest and lowest level of overall fan/media/league confidence in a Browns coaching staff since the team returned? If the lowest point is a "1" and the highest is a "10", where are we now? -- Steve Cornelius, Avon Lake

Hey, Steve: When the Browns went 7-9 and then 9-7 in the first two years of Butch Davis, I thought he was the guy and I'd say my confidence in him was an 8 or 9. My confidence in Mangini as being "the guy" to take this team to the playoffs peaked in training camp this year and now has fallen to a 4 or 5.

Hey, Tony: Although they are 1-4, it does seem that the team is maybe turning a corner and improving. Possibly one or two good drafts this team might be back on top? Is this wishful thinking? -- Alan Wilson, Fredonia, Wis.

Hey, Alan: I don't mean to beat a dead horse, but I can't see this team "turning a corner" until it locates its franchise quarterback. There are so many players over 30 and in the final year of their contract that I suspect another roster overhaul is in the offing in 2011.

Hey, Tony: Maybe I'm in the minority here, but I'm looking forward to seeing what Colt McCoy will do this weekend. I know the Steelers will be blitzing like crazy, but at some point you have to be able to see what you got in this guy. I have a gut feeling that with the QB class of 2011 being pretty strong, that their future QB will be in next year's first round if they find out McCoy is not the answer. I say better to find out now if this guy can do it than later. What do you think? -- Josh Reed, White Oak, Pa.

Hey, Josh: Agreed. I just think it's unfortunate that McCoy has to make his NFL debut in Pittsburgh against the Steelers. That's a really bad hand for him to play poker with.

Hey, Tony: I read in the PD on Tuesday that Eric Mangini's explanation for Joe Thomas' rough day Sunday was that he was facing John Abraham -- a "great player." I was confused, isn't Joe Thomas supposedly also a "great player?" Help me believe the Joe Thomas hype! -- Brett Ormsby, Bay Village

Hey, Brett: Thomas just had a bad game, his worst as a Brown. I'm not scratching him off my elite player list just yet.

Hey, Tony: Why don't the Browns look at picking up newly released Shawne Merriman? Sure we already have tons of linebackers, but this might just be the anchor to our defense. -- Brett Shaver, West Park, Ohio

Hey, Brett: I don't believe Merriman has done anything since he violated the league's steroids policy.

Hey, Tony: After every fourth quarter letdown we have had, shouldn't coach Mangini be held responsible? To me that's what the head coach's job is -- win games, period. I think Rob Ryan should be promoted to interim head coach immediately. -- Curtis Emrick, Castine

Hey, Curtis: You are correct. The No. 1 job of an NFL head coach is to win. I have said numerous times that I thought Mangini could coach, but I didn't know if he could win. Big difference. If the Browns felt the need to name an interim coach -- which I don't think would happen -- I believe it would be Brad Seely, not Ryan.

-- Tony

Colt McCoy's first NFL start against the Steelers on the road won't be easy but it doesn't have to be a horror movie, Bud Shaw writes in his Sunday Spin.

View full sizeChuck Crow / The Plain DealerBeware young quarterbacks ... trying to learn the NFL game while playing the Steelers can be hazardous to your health, says Bud Shaw.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- If the Browns go into a shell on offense, be afraid, be very afraid.

The film industry long ago identified the predicaments that make an audience squeamish to the point of wanting to turn away.

• The dentist chair torture scene in "Marathon Man."

• Kathy Bates wielding a sledgehammer in "Misery."

• Medics digging into a wounded soldier's thigh in "Black Hawk Down" in search of his femoral artery. Spoiler alert: no luck.

• The chainsaw sequence in "Scarface."

• NFL Films archived copy of rookie Charlie Frye against the Steelers defense on Christmas Eve 2005.

Assuming Eric Mangini doesn't panic and send Jake Delhomme out on one leg -- he's done it twice already this season -- or cap a week of deception by playing Brett Ratliff, Colt McCoy should get a chance to write the script Sunday in Heinz Field.

A rookie making his first NFL start on the road against the NFL's best defense would portend enough doom all by itself. Throw in Peyton Hillis compromised by injury, a passing game as buttoned down as George Will, the Steelers with fresh legs coming off a bye, and the return of repentant Ben Roethlisberger.

You get the equivalent of a sadistic Nazi dentist performing a root canal with no anesthesia.

No, it's not safe, young QB. It's not safe at all.

It doesn't have to get that painful for McCoy. It just requires a less conservative approach than we've seen from Mangini and offensive coordinator Brian Daboll. It requires keeping the Steelers honest by throwing on first downs. And it wouldn't hurt -- this is where we get crazy radical here -- to throw farther than six yards downfield occasionally.

Asking McCoy to hand off to Hillis twice and then make something happen on third and seven is dooming him to failure.

In discussing the possibility of going into Pittsburgh with McCoy at QB, Mangini mentioned Arizona beating New Orleans last week behind undrafted Max Hall.

"They set the tone," Mangini said of the Cardinals.

I hope he was talking about the Arizona defense. Hall was intercepted once, had a fumble luckily recovered by a teammate and was sacked four times. The Cardinals rushed for 1.7 yards per carry and had only 12 first downs and 194 total yards of offense.

Hall was 17-of-27 for 168 yards and a 65.0 passer rating. (Nothing too impressive, but the Browns would probably take it right now from McCoy.)

If the Browns circle wagons instead of attacking, though, they'd better figure on a couple defensive touchdowns. That, too, was part of Arizona's recipe. They'll need big plays from Josh Cribbs in the return game and in the wildcat (remember that?)

They'll need to be aggressive on first down.

In other words, if they're going to play Colt McCoy at quarterback, they have to let him play quarterback.

When it came to C.C. Sabathia's salary parameters, the Indians weren't even in the same neighborhood...

Sabathia gave a USA Today reporter access for a recent story. In setting the scene, the writer noted that the former Indians' pitcher had just come back from "a haircut in the salon of his 18,000-square-foot home."

(Similarly, after a bathroom expansion in my rambling 1,500-square foot West Park bungalow, I now have room for a shower caddy.)

Sabathia lives in a $15 million home in the same community as Britney Spears and Jay-Z. The house has six bedrooms, an indoor basketball court and a spa.

Not signing a long-term deal in Cleveland had to be a tough call for Sabathia. Not just because it was home for so long.

I'm told the Indians were willing to throw in multiple 10-percent coupons at Great Cuts.

The fact that he didn't claim he was injured in a shootout is a clear sign of Gilbert Arenas' maturity...

The Washington Wizards guard faked an injury so a teammate could play in an exhibition game. The Wizards fined him $50,000 for it.

Talk about inviting bad karma. A couple days later, Arenas had to leave a game with a legitimate groin pull.

If Arenas wants another day off at some point, his family should hope he doesn't make up a story about attending the funeral of a close relative.

Soon, you may have to watch C-SPAN to see a filibuster.

The NBA Players Association is threatening legal action over the league's attempt to curtail player griping.

The union objects to new guidelines that require refs to whistle players for technicals if they find the players protesteth too much. Union chief Billy Hunter says the changes "may harm our product."

Put Knicks' big man Amare Stoudemire in the dissenting camp.

"It's for the betterment of the NBA, it's the betterment of teams and players, so we have to adjust," Stoudemire said. "It makes it a clean game, a fun game. You let the officials do their jobs, and we do ours."

Nice try. There's no room in this discussion for that kind of clear logic.

YOU SAID IT

Kathy Willens / Associated PressElbow pain and the inconvenience of living in a digital photo world -- and just getting old -- provide plenty of reasons for failure for Brett Favre.

(The Slightly Expanded Sunday Edition)

"Bud:

"Have the current Browns ever received an excessive celebration flag?" -- Jim Tahey

Yes. When the first time they crossed midfield against the Ravens in the second half, refs flagged them for "excessive use of confetti."

"Dear Bud:

"If Colt McCoy beats the Stillers, will the Dawg Pound turn into the Corral?" -- Michael Sarro

Yes. The Flying Pig Corral.

"Bud:

"Separated at birth: Former NBA coach Mike Dunleavy and actor Ed Lauter." -- Jeff Heldt

I thought you were going to say Colt McCoy and shark chum.

"Bud:

"I couldn't help but notice that Brett Favre grabbed his elbow after errant passes against the Jets. I had flashbacks to last May. Do I detect the athletic equivalent of "the dog ate my homework?" -- Jim Lefkowitz

Make fun of LeBron's elbow injury if you want. But I feel for him. He suffered through a very difficult period this summer when he could only pat himself on the back with one hand instead of two.

"Bud:

"I've been watching ESPN and see kids with hoodies and sunglasses playing cards. Is that a sport?" -- Tom Hoffner

It depends. Were they sitting in the home dugout at Progressive Field wearing "Hello, My Name Is..." buttons?

"Bud:

"Some folks worry about Joe Thomas' performance against Atlanta. Throughout his outstanding career, his accomplishments have been exceptional and he has been selected to three Pro Bowls. Therefore, it's illogical for fans to be doubting Thomas." -- Jim D., Richmond Heights

You went farther for that punch line than John Abraham did to sack Seneca Wallace.

"Bud:

"Does Brett Favre have a lot of junk e-mail?" -- Joe S.

First-time "You Said It" winners receive a T-shirt from the Mental Floss collection. Repeat winners get the girl, unless the girl is Jenn Sterger.

Quarterback Roethlisberger makes his season debut against the Browns, after serving a four-game supsension for violating NFL code of conduct.

Associated PressBen Roethlisberger will start at quarterback for the Steelers against the Browns.

Cleveland, Ohio -- The Pittsburgh Steelers got by with quarterback Ben Roethlisberger serving a four-game suspension for violating NFL conduct policy.

They might do better than that with him back. Roethlisberger, who has led Pittsburgh to two Super Bowl championships, will play for the first time this season on Sunday against the visiting Cleveland Browns.

Gary Mihoces writes about Roethlisberger and the Pittsburgh offense for USAToday.com:

Though the Steelers went 3-1 without him, they rank last in the NFL in passing after playing with Charlie Batch and Dennis Dixon at quarterback.

The statistics amassed so far by Steelers receivers reflect that bottom-ranked status.

A quarter of the way through the season, wide receiver Hines Ward leads the team with 12 catches for 165 yards. Multiply those 12 catches by four and it projects to 48 in a season. Last season, Ward had 95 grabs for 1,167 yards and six TDs.

Tight end Heath Miller has 10 catches for 100 yards and no touchdowns. That would project to 40 catches in a season. Last season, Miller had 76 receptions for 789 yards and six touchdowns.

Cleveland vs. Pittsburgh

Seldom during the Browns-Steelers rivalfy have both teams been good at the same time. That's proven by how the Browns won 32 of the first 41 games between the teams, and the Steelers have 51 of the last 75, including two playoff game wins for the Steelers.

John Harris of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review writes about the rivalry, quoting Browns players including placekicker Phil Dawson:

Despite being on the losing end so many times, Dawson said Steelers-Browns week has always held special meaning for him.

"That's one of those things that makes this week fun," Dawson said. "We all have great jobs in this locker room. It's a blessing to be in this league. But a lot of us long for that feeling you had emotionally in college. When you have that rivalry, the tradition of two programs going against one another.

"As a guy that's been in this league a long time, it's fun to have that twice a year because some of those other games, you kind of feel like you're going to work. This feels like playing that game in the front yard you grew up playing, when you told your friend, 'run around the mailbox and I'll throw it to you.'"

Steeltown stories

Steelers coach Mike Tomlin is trying to figure out what to do with a couple rookie kick returners/receivers, writes Gerry Dulac for the Pittsburgh-Post Gazette. 

A matchup to watch in the Browns-Steelers game, by Mike Wilkening of ProFootballWeekly.com.

Steelers-Browns notes by John Harris of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. 

Defenses and the Steelers' offensive line will have to adjust to Roethlisberger's return to action, writes Len Pasquarelli for Sports Xchange/CBSSports.com.

About Ben Roethlisberger getting back on the field, by Dennis Dillon of SportingNews.com.

The Indians haven't lost a game in a couple of weeks, but readers can't stop offering ideas to improve the Tribe.

Chuck Crow / The Plain DealerRegardless of how many middle infielders he might bring, Carlos Santana will not be traded this off-season, says Paul Hoynes. Really. We think.

Hey, Hoynsie: For almost a decade we've been trading players for prospects. Do we havesome can't-miss prospects ready to improve the team next year? Might they be traded for major leaguers? -- Joseph Quinn, Miami, Fla.

Hey, Joseph: I'm sure the Indians could get a couple of established utility infielders for, say, Carlos Santana.

Yes, I'm being sarcastic.

Hey, Hoynsie: Is there an address where fans can send a card to Bob Feller? -- Tony Biats, Willowick.

Hey, Tony: Those who want to send Hall of Famer Bob Feller get well cards can mail them to: Bob Feller, Progressive Field, 2401 Ontario St., Cleveland, Ohio, 44115. The Indians will send them to Feller.

Hey, Hoynsie: Will the Tribe hold the ceremony to honor Pronk (Travis Hafner) being named to the All-Plunked team at the home opener, or should I plan on getting in line for my tickets for a different game? -- Joe Cepec, Dublin

Hey, Joe: I think the Indians will present Travis Hafner with a trophy of a gold-plated bruise before their game on June 17, marking the start of a three-game visit by the Pittsburgh Pirates. Browns quarterback Colt McCoy will throw out the first pitch. He should be off crutches by then.

Hey, Hoynsie: We know that Manny Acta hasn't managed the best teams at the big-leaguelevel. How was he as a manager in the minors? -- April Buchanon, Cleveland

Hey, April: Manny Acta's minor-league record is 419-432. He managed eight years in the minors.

Hey, Hoynsie: What steps do you anticipate by the Tribe to reach out to fans and attempt to restore its credibility? -- Harrison Morgan, Cleveland

Hey, Harrison: New President Mark Shapiro said the Indians must create top-quality entertainment on the field and in the stands at Progressive Field. Let's just say I don't see the organization raising ticket prices anytime soon.

Jeffrey M. Boan / Associated PressOne reader says the Indians are simply the American League version of the Pittsburgh Pirates. To which, Paul Hoynes says, you just haven't seen enough of the Bucs.

Hey, Hoynsie: With a dismal performance in the last decade, more internal promotions, and two straight seasons of losing more than 90 games, how do Clevelanders know that the Tribe isn't being run similarly to the Pirates? -- F. Kenneth Power, Cleveland

Hey, F: The Pirates have lost for 18 straight seasons. The Indians' streak is at two straight seasons.

The Pirates last made the postseason in 1992. The Indians last made the postseason in 2007.

The Indians had a payroll of $81.5 million in 2009. In the last 11 years, the Pirates have never had a payroll higher than $57.8 million (2001).

Hey, Hoynsie: Game Seven of the World Series -- who's your starter, CC Sabathia or Cliff Lee? Which one would you pick to start a roster? -- Steve Cornelius, Avon Lake

Hey, Steve: I'd start Cliff Lee in Game 7 and I'd start a roster with CC Sabathia because he's younger.

Hey, Hoynsie: Do you know if new GM Chris Antonetti differs from the previous regime in having a plus defensive first baseman? Might we see an end of the converted first baseman? -- Henry Ross, Youngstown

Hey, Henry: Players change positions all the time. That is never going to end.

I do think Antonetti believes in the value of good defense, especially on the infield with a rotation featuring a lot of sinker-ball pitchers.

Hey, Hoynsie: Please can you tell me what score sheet the Indians' announcers use? What is your favorite? -- David Silverwood, Champaign, Ill.

Hey, David: Checked with Tribe announcer Jim Rosenhaus. He said most radio and TV announcers have developed their own type of score sheet. They're usually larger than the one you buy at the ballpark and include room for defensive alignments, stats and notes on each player.

When the late Herb Score did Tribe games on the radio, he used a scoresheet named "The Herb Scorecard." How cool is that?

I use a scorebook from the Baseball Writers Association of America. My only problem is trying to figure out what I just wrote down.

Hey, Hoynsie: I'm a bit concerned that new GM Chris Antonetti has had a major role in former GM Mark Shapiro's decisionmaking. Does the Tribe have plans to add a consultant type with playing or managing experience to assist him before free agency begins? -- Brian Friedman, Cleveland.

Hey, Brian: Antonetti was Shapiro's right-hand man. If he wasn't deeply involved in player decisions, he wouldn't be where he is today. Still, when it came time to make the final decision on trades and player acquisition, it was Shapiro's call.

I know Antonetti is considering adding to the front office. If Josh Byrnes is an example of the kind of addition he'll make, I doubt the new hire will have extensive playing and managing experience.

Hey, Hoynsie: With injuries and uncertainty at first base and catcher and a leadership void in the clubhouse, does it make sense for the Tribe to make an offer to Victor Martinez this winter? A drastic move might be needed anyway just to restore credibility with the fans. -- Steve Alex, Gainesville, Fla.

Hey, Steve: Good thought, but there's no way that happens. They traded Martinez because they couldn't afford to keep him. Why would they bring him back at a larger salary than the one they dumped in 2009?

-- Hoynsie

Another weekend's worth of observations on our pro teams.

Chuck Crow / The Plain DealerJerome Harrison never seemed to run with the same motivation that he carried in the final month last season, says Terry Pluto, which made last week's trade to Philadelphia something less than a surprise.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Another weekend's worth of observations on Cleveland's pro teams:

About the Harrison trade...

1. Mike Cirner e-mailed: "Terry, I know that you are disappointed about [the trade] because you are a big Harrison fan, but what did you think about the trade overall? Did we really gain anything? This seems like another one of those "change of scenery" deals for two players." Cirner is right, this is a change-of-team deal for two running backs who no longer fit into their team's current offenses.

2. While fans like to blame Eric Mangini, keep in mind he no longer has the final say on trades. That belongs to President Mike Holmgren and GM Tom Heckert. These are the guys who looked at tapes of Harrison gaining 561 yards in the final three games of 2009, and then traded up to draft Tennessee running back Montario Hardesty -- something that bothered Harrison. They also put together the Brady Quinn/Peyton Hillis deal. Did Mangini favor the moves? Of course. But it's not like the coach can get mad at a player, pick up the phone and trade him.

3. Mangini loves depth at running back, partly because these guys get hurt. Remember, Harrison missed all of the 2009 preseason and the first two regular-season games with a knee injury. It's now clear no one with the Browns was carried away by Harrison's final three games and those 561 yards. For what it's worth, those games were against Kansas City (ranked 31st vs. the run), Jacksonville (19th) and Oakland (29th). Before that streak, he started two games and had 35 yards (10 carries) vs. San Diego and nine (7 carries) vs. Pittsburgh.

4. That said, I always liked Harrison as a third-down back. I thought he could be very effective with 10 to 15 touches per game, rushing and receiving. I liked how he had to capitalize in limited opportunities. For example, he had 143 yards rushing in 23 carries (6.2 average) in 2007, and 246 yards in 34 yards rushing (7.2) in 2008. He was not a guy who needed 10 or more carries to make an impact.

5. This season, that spark was gone. He had 72 yards in 22 preseason carries (3.1), losing two fumbles. He had 91 yards in 31 carries (2.9), and 19 of 31 carries were for two or fewer yards. He complained about not knowing his role. He wasn't the same guy who looked determined to make the most out of any chance. His practices generally were lackluster. And this is what Hecker and Holmgren saw in their first exposure to Harrison.

6. Like all the Browns' restricted free agents, he wanted a long-term deal. None of them received one because of the new labor deal coming. Consider Matt Roth, who played about as well as Harrison at the end of last season. He was a force at outside linebacker. His agent talked about wanting a trade this summer, especially after the Browns added starting linebackers Scott Fujita and Chris Gocong. Rather than pout, Roth has been a tiger, earning a starting spot and putting himself in position for a big payday.

7. Maybe Harrison will develop into Brian Westbrook's old role with the Eagles and put up big numbers. It's certainly in his self-interest to do so. But his lack of mental toughness was disappointing, and he seemed to reach the point where he didn't think he could play well here.

8. Mike Bell is a 6-foot, 225-pound power runner who has never been able to win a starting job. He had 654 yards in 172 carries (3.8 average) for New Orleans, but the Saints let him leave as a free agent -- signing with Philadelphia for $1.3 million. He had only 28 yards in 16 carries for the Eagles. Last season, Bell was rated an above-average runner in goal situations by Pro Football Outsiders. But they also wrote: "He's a nothing special runner who put up some decent stats in a very good [Saints] offense."

9. Forget Bell as a receiver, he caught only four passes last year and his problems in that area are one of the reasons the Eagles traded him. In 364 career carries, he has lost only three fumbles. With Peyton Hillis fighting a calf injury, Bell will have to play some this week. Last season, Bell's best games were against Detroit (143 yards, 28 carries), Philadelphia (86 yards, 17 carries), Miami (80 yards, 12 carries) and Tampa Bay (75 yards, 13 carries).

10. I still hear the Browns are considering bringing back Chris Jennings, who gained 220 yards (3.5 average) last season. He is a free agent after being cut in training camp.

Thomas Ondrey / The Plain DealerHere's a novel suggestion for the Browns -- give Josh Cribbs more chances with the ball and in the wildcat.

About the Browns...

1. In the last two games, Chansi Stuckey has caught 10 passes for 110 yards -- five in each game. Seneca Wallace was developing chemistry with his slot receiver. On the season, Stuckey has caught 15 of 22 passes thrown his way -- 11 for first downs. The other key receiver has been tight end Ben Watson, catching 23 passes good for 12 first downs. Watson has been as effective with the Browns as Kellen Winslow in Tampa, where the former Brown has 17 catches (10 for first down) and no touchdowns.

2. Hard to know what these numbers mean with rookie Colt McCoy taking over for the injured Wallace. Mohammed Massaquoi has caught nine of 19 balls thrown his way. It's discouraging to see the Browns' two 2009 second-round picks (Brian Robiskie and Massaquoi) off to slow starts, while the other second rounder (David Veikune) was cut.

3. The Browns say McCoy had a good week of practice and seemed comfortable in the role of the starter and running the offense. Of course, no one is tackling him, and it's impossible to create what he'll face in Pittsburgh. But in terms of poise heading into the game, he looked like a guy who had won 45 games as a starting quarterback at Texas.

4. McCoy's accuracy is his strength. He knows at some point, he'll have to hit some clutch throws just to keep the game close. What the Browns want to avoid is an interception that turns into a touchdown. It has happened against Atlanta and Kansas City, while another was returned to the Browns' 2 and become a touchdown.

5. The Browns know Joshua Cribbs was their best weapon against the Steelers last season, running for 132 yards in 14 carries out of the wildcat in two games. But they also know the Steelers have had two weeks to prepare for it -- and stopping Cribbs is a top priority. Nonetheless, let's hope the Browns give Cribbs several chances -- be it in the wildcat or short passes. Make the Steelers prove they can stop him.

About the Indians...

AP PhotoShin-Soo Choo's future with the Indians was solidified when a Korean reporter apologized for errors in his story on the outfielder's request for a "transfer."

1. Glad to know Shin-Soo Choo didn't want to "transfer" to a better team, as a Korean story indicated. Lots was lost in translation, and the writer has since apologized. Choo is critical to the Indians, not only because of his talent -- but his upbeat personality. The team does have his rights for three more years, but it is scary that he hired Scott Boras as his new agent in spring training -- because Boras' usually pushes his clients into free agency as soon as possible, rarely signing a long-term deal that gives up free-agent seasons.

2. GM Chris Antonetti emailed: "I talked to [Choo] a number of times at or near the end of the season both in person and on the phone. He was emphatic with his passion for being part of a winning team in Cleveland."

3. Choo is 27, and hit .300 (.885 OPS) with 22 HR and 90 RBI in a lineup where he was the only consistent hitter all season. The lefty batted .264 vs. lefties, .319 vs. righties, .311 with runners in scoring position, .500 (6-of-12) with the bases loaded. He was 22-of-29 in stolen bases. This is the second season in a row that he batted exactly .300, and it's .304 over the last three years. He has been remarkable not only for his performance, but pure consistency.

4. A name that kept being mentioned in the minor-league staff meetings was Matt Packer, a 23-year-old lefty who finished his first full pro season. He was 8-5 with a 1.60 ERA at Class A Lake County, and then moved to Class AA Akron (1-2, 3.16 ERA in 37 IP). On the season, he was 9-7, 2.04 ERA and struck out 123 in 133 innings, walking only 22 with seven homers allowed. They believe the University of Virginia product could be on the fast track. He was a 32nd-round pick in 2009.

5. Top pick (2010) Drew Pomeranz threw three scoreless innings, fanning seven, in his first Instructional League outing. His average fastball was 93, "and he was to 95," said Antonetti.

About the Cavaliers...

Gus Chan / The Plain DealerByron Scott believes Jamario Moon can be a contributor at the small forward position, but knows the Cavs will need several players to help replace the position's old level of production.

1. Spent a long time talking to Byron Scott after Thursday's shootaround -- Oops, it went two hours, and Scott calls these "practices" during training camp. They will be cut back in the regular season. Anyway, the coach is very upbeat, but when I asked him about the small forward spot ... well, he had more questions than answers.

2. He likes how Jamario Moon can run and believes he's an underrated outside shooter, but is concerned about his ball-handling ... and also thinks Moon needs to do a better job with team defense. Of the small forwards, Moon is having the best preseason, averaging 6.5 points, 5.8 rebounds and shooting 50 percent in 25 minutes a game. In 2008-09, he started 60 games between Miami/Toronto, averaging 7.8 points, 4.8 rebounds and shooting 47 percent in 28 minutes.

3. Jawad Williams can shoot a stationary jumper with some success and is decent on defense, but it's hard to picture the St. Edward product as a starter. Joey Graham can defend, but really can't shoot. "We are looking at some kind of committee approach, but I'm not sure how it will work," said Scott, adding that he'd like to get 15 points from whatever combination becomes the small forward.

4. He is giving some thought to a smaller lineup with Anthony Parker at small forward, although it's doubtful he'd start the game that way. But Scott thinks combinations with Mo Williams, Daniel Gibson and Ramon Sessions in the backcourt -- yes, he'll play two small guards together -- can be effective. He keeps raving about Sessions and Gibson, although he says, "Ramon has to push the ball even more on our fast breaks."

5. Yes, it's possible they could have a tall front with Antawn Jamison, J.J. Hickson and Anderson Varejao -- but with Jamison's cranky knee, it may not be smart to expect him to defend small forwards.

6. Ryan Hollins ranked 63rd out of 66 NBA centers last season in rebounds per minute, according to ESPN's John Hollinger. At 7-foot and 240 pounds, he can block shots and should be able to rebound -- a message Scott has been delivering. He has responded with 31 rebounds in 94 minutes, averaging 7.8 in the preseason. If that trend continues, he can be a key bench player.

7. Scott is happy with J.J. Hickson's offense (16.0 points, 9.2 rebounds), but he keeps telling the 22-year-old power forward, "That's only half the game, I expect a lot more of you on defense." Hickson is drawing a lot of fouls, and the Cavs want him better than 67 percent (for his career) at the foul line.

8. You haven't heard much about Leon Powe, but he has been solid as a rebounder and physical defender as a backup center and power forward. Best news of all, his surgically repaired knee has not had any major setbacks.

There might be tougher places from which to escape with your life. But this is the Big Ten’s version.

UPDATED: 11:56 p.m.

Chris Russell / Columbus DispatchDevon Torrence was far from the only Buckeye left bowed after Saturday night's loss at Camp Randall.

MADISON, Wis. -- Ohio State came into Camp Randall Stadium Saturday night, the joint that's always jumping, and put bounce in the Wisconsin Badgers' step quicker than you could say "Gone, Wisconsin!"

The Buckeyes' special teams have been awful all season. Twelve seconds into the biggest test since Miami game, they achieved awfulness again.

Wisconsin's David Gilreath ran 97 yards for a touchdown with the opening kickoff, threatend only by OSU's Aaron Gant, who fell like a buckeye leaf, barely nicking Gilreath's heels.

After the kickoff return, the crowd in the House of Pain, as the natives like to call the place, began to put the thumbscrews to the Buckeyes' eardrums. "Loud" went to another magnitude of noise.

This is one of those places that is supposed to be hotter for the other team than Hell is for a snowball. There might be tougher places from which to escape with your life: Daniel in the lion's den comes to mind. Jonah in the whale's belly. Colt McCoy maybe at Heinz Field. But this is the Big Ten's version.

"On the road, you have to at least match their special teams [to have a chance to win]," said Ohio State coach Jim Tressel.

However, that is not why the dream of a fourth national championship game appearance in Tressel's 10 years as Ohio State coach died in a 31-18 upset days after the Buckeyes ascended to the No. 1 ranking in the polls.

Wisconsin's offensive line dominated Ohio State's defensive line as the Buckeyes have seldom been dominated.

The Badgers have the best offensive line in the Big Ten. The hope for the Buckeyes had been that a smaller, quicker defensive tackle like John Simon or a defensive end who could make speed a factor like Nate Williams, could hit 'em where they ain't, the way Florida's speed rushers had done with OSU's beleaguered tackles in the 2006 national championship game.

Didn't happen.

Florida won that game because the Gators' defensive ends bivouacked in the Buckeyes' backfield. Wisconsin won this game because their offensive line keyed a running game that had the savagery of a stampede on a cattle drive.

John Clay, the Badgers' power back, who gained all of 59 yards in last season's game, had 71 in the first quarter alone. For the game, Clay rushed for 104 yards and two touchdowns, the first time OSU allowed a 100-yard rusher since the Southern California game in 2008. Speed back James White got 75 yards.

The Badgers roared to a three-touchdown lead in the first half.

Andy Manis / Associated PressDan Herron absorbed the full impact of this emphatic tackle by Wisconsin's Kevin Claxton (37) and Louis Nzegwu (93) during the second half Saturday.

Getting burned on a big play like the kickoff return is one thing. More serious was the second Badgers touchdown, but that came on a short field after a Gilreath punt return to near midfield. The third drive was a message that no smoke or mirrors or Terrelle Pryor hocus-pocus was going to take back what was rightfully Wisconsin's this time.

To their credit, the Buckeyes made a game of it, scoring the next 18 points. Tressel praised the comeback, overlooking the lack of initiative in the early going.

"A lesser bunch would have folded their tent," he said. "We could say we have to throw on every down and catch up on the first play. [But we said] that we had to methodically catch up."

The credit for this goes to Pryor. He slithered to the outside, and he cut back, and he stayed just ahead of the storm that was usually gathering at his back from the pass rush. He might not be the next Vince Young, as advertised, but he doesn't have the supporting cast of the Texas quarterback of five years ago, either.

Only Boom Herron and Dave Sanzenbacher really delivered for him. Herron ran for 91 yards and scored two touchdowns.

In the second half, Pryor completed a series of desperate passes to Sanzenbacher, who flew through the air for spectacular catches and was cart-wheeled down on his facemask on ferocious tackles.

Ahead by only three points, the Badgers sent the Buckeyes reeling off the line over and over again on a clinching fourth-quarter drive.

"I could just see that our offense wasn't going to be denied. We all had heard that Ohio State had not allowed a 100-yard rusher in 29 games, so I threw that in the kids' faces and challenged them," said Wisconsin coach Bret Bielema.

The Buckeyes capitulated with 6:29 left when Tressel ordered a punt on fourth-and-10 at his own 29, trailing, 28-18. Statistics probably show that this was the sensible thing to do. Maybe the hope was that the punt would be fumbled. Or that Wisconsin quarterback Scott Tolzien, last year's goat, who was 13-for-16 in this game, would throw a second interception. Or that a meteorite might hit Clay or White and stop them in their tracks.

Obviously, nothing else did.

After falling behind, 3-0, the Barons responded with four straight goals for the victory.

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. -- The Lake Erie Monsters lost an American Hockey League game Saturday night at Oklahoma City, 4-3.

The Monsters out-shot Oklahoma City, 27-26.

Monsters goals were recorded by Greg Mauldin, David Van der Gulik and David Liffiton.

However, after falling behind, 3-0, the Barons responded with four straight goals for the victory. Oklahoma City scored the clinching goal at 18:37 of the final period.

The Barons are in their first year in the AHL.

The OSU junior couldn't complete the comeback at Wisconsin like he did against the Badgers two years ago.

MADISON, Wis. - When he led the game-winning touchdown drive at Wisconsin two year ago, Ohio State quarterback Terrelle Pryor was welcomed into manhood, according to the words of former OSU running back Beanie Wells. Saturday, Pryor was just welcomed back to reality.

The junior wasn't the reason the Buckeyes lost to the Badgers 31-18, but he wasn't able to do enough to bring Ohio State back for a victory this time.

"This is definitely an eye opener," Pryor said after the loss. "I thought our eyes were opened against Illinois when they gave us a tight game, but this loss is hard for us because we thought we had a real, real good team. And we still do have a great team, but we let this one really slip by us.

"I'm disappointed in myself and disappointed in general that we lost this game. We've got to go about this as men. We can't sit here and act like a kid and let this loss define us because this loss doesn't define us at all. They played a great game, their fans were jumping all around. We had a chance. Down 21-18, we had a chance. We just couldn't get it done as a team."

Columbus DispatchOhio State quarterback Terrelle Pryor runs for a first down against Wisconsin on Saturday night.

Pryor completed 14 of 28 passes for 156 yards, no touchdowns and one late interception. He also ran the ball 18 times, gaining 94 yards but also taking 38 yards in losses, including three sacks, to finish with a total of 56 rushing yards. A week after a strained left quad kept him from running against Indiana, Pryor was much more mobile, but he didn't seem to have his top gear and that final burst when he reached open space.

"I can't use the quad as an excuse at all," Pryor said. "There was enough that I could run a little bit. I don't think that's an excuse. The quad's fine."

His problems early were more in the passing game, as he threw behind receivers several times, entering halftime with 4 of 11 completions for 25 yards. Like all the Buckeyes, he was playing catchup after Wisconsin raced to a 21-0 lead, starting with a kickoff return for a touchdown.

"Nothing against our special teams, but that really hurt us," Pryor said. "That kicked us in the rear end. At the end of the day there's times where we could've scored in the red zone. It was a team loss. We live to fight another day.

"We've got to stop taking stuff for granted. We've got to get back in the film room and figure out what we did wrong and then get ready for Purdue."

Jim Tressel did lean on Pryor when other facets of the offense weren't working, calling quarterback draws and sweeps at crucial times. Pryor was stopped twice when the Buckeyes unsuccessfully ran three times from inside the 4-yardline in a first-half drive that ended in a field goal.

In the second half, the Buckeyes were patient and Pryor led touchdown drives on Ohio State's first two possession, as Wisconsin's lead was sliced to 21-18. But it wasn't enough.

"We're men and this doesn't define us as a team," Pryor said. "It doesn't define me, I know that. There's going to be plenty more cheers and joy. Of course we didn't want to lose. We didn't want to lose for the fans and we didn't want to lose for ourselves. We thought we had the best team. I don't know."

Along with Ohio State's national title hopes, Pryor's Heisman Trophy resume took a big hit with the loss. The Buckeyes are now 25-5 since Pryor took over as their starting quarterback in the fourth game of the 2008 season.

"A loss is a loss," Pryor said. "We hate losing. I hate losing with a passion. There's some things I could've done better. It was a total team loss. Total. It was a full loss and we lost as a team.

"We have to bounce back because we can't let this define us. We can't lose another game. It's a big loss, don't get me wrong, but if we dwell on this loss it could hurt us. We still have seniors on the team that we want to send out with a great record."

Elyria Catholic rallied to defeat host Cleveland Central Catholic, 17-14, on Saturday afternoon at Stefanski Stadium in a North Coast League White Division football game. With the Panthers trailing, 14-9, senior quarterback Danny Reaser connected with wide receiver Zack Rogers on an 11-yard scoring pass with 8:05 to play.

Elyria Catholic rallied to defeat host Cleveland Central Catholic, 17-14, on Saturday afternoon at Stefanski Stadium in a North Coast League White Division football game.

With the Panthers trailing, 14-9, senior quarterback Danny Reaser connected with wide receiver Zack Rogers on an 11-yard scoring pass with 8:05 to play.

The Ironmen (6-2, 2-1) had taken the lead earlier in the quarter on a 14-yard pass from senior quarterback Darius Richard to senior wide receiver Marcel Caver.

The Panthers (7-1, 2-1), ranked No. 8 in Division IV and No. 20 by The Plain Dealer, secured the win on an interception by sophomore safety Jacob Moore with 3:11 to play.

Lake Catholic 21, Padua 7: Tommy Michaels ran for 140 yards and two touchdowns as the Cougars, No.5 in The Plain Dealer and No.7 in Division II, improved to 7-1 and 3-0 in the North Coast League Blue Division. The visiting Bruins fall to 5-3, 2-1.

St. Ignatius 47, St. Francis (N.Y.) 7: Senior quarterback Matt Hoyer passed for 190 yards and three touchdowns as the host Wildcats evened their record at 4-4.

University School 62, WRA 34: Junior John McKelvey ran for three touchdowns, and sophomore Kevin Smith ran for two as the visiting Preppers (6-2) put up 569 yards of offense against the Pioneers (1-6).

Shaw 22, Bedford 7: Senior quarterback Robert Small passed for 161 yards and three touchdowns to lead the host Cardinals (5-3, 2-1) to the Lake Erie League win against the Bearcats (1-7, 1-2).

Cross country

Northeast Ohio Conference: Lakewood junior Nick Jackosky had the top boys time of 16:04, and North Royalton senior Hannah Neczypor had the best girls clocking at 18:07 during the three-division combined meet at Strongsville.

The Medina boys, ranked No. 2 in Division I, won the Valley Division title with 28 points as it placed three of the top four finishers, with senior David Knack second in 16:18.

Stow won the River Division and Parma took the Lake Division.

Hudson, with sophomore Caroline Sauers finishing second in 19:14, won the girls Valley Division with 45 points. Brunswick was runner-up with 55 points.

Stow captured the River Division team title.

Brush sophomore Becky Rohwer was the Lake Division individual winner, with Normandy taking the team title.

Southwestern Conference: Michael Parsons covered 5 kilometers in 16:34 as the individual winner to help Avon Lake, No. 16 in Division I, win the team title at Lorain County Community College.

Brecksville-Broadview Heights won the girls team title as they placed five runners in the top 14.

Berea's Miranda DiBiasio was the girls individual champion in 19:27.

Chagrin Valley Conference: Defending Division III state champion Independence won the boys Valley Division team title and Kenston won the Chagrin Division championship.

Berkshire junior Matt Pelletier was the Valley Division individual champion in 16:09, with Aurora senior Scott Black taking Chagrin Division honors.

On the girls side, Chagrin Falls won the Chagrin Division and Berkshire took the Valley Division. Individual honors went to Perry senior Abbie Clifford (18:55) in the Chagrin, and Hawken sophomore Alexandra Markovic (19:23) in the Valley.

West Shore Conference: Senior Michael Brajdic had the best individual time of 15:58 to help Bay win the boys championship at Cahoon Park in Bay Village.

The Rockets, ranked No. 6 in Division II, placed three runners among the top five.

On the girls side, Rocky River lived up to its No. 2 ranking in Division II by posting five runners among the top eight, including the first three finishers, to win the title with an impressive 20 points.

Junior Maddy McDonough was the individual winner with a clocking of 19:00, holding off her Pirate teammate Elyse Bierut, also a junior, by three seconds. Rocky River sophomore Madi Connelly was third in 20:01.

North Coast League: Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin won the Blue Division and Elyria Catholic took the White Division in the boys meet at Squire Valleyvue Farm in Hunting Valley.

The Lions, ranked No. 8 in Division II, were paced by senior Mike Aquila, who won his division in 16:52.

Elyria Catholic, third in Division II, had 26 points to hold off Trinity, No. 3 in Division III, with 31 points.

NDCL won the girls Blue Division and Elyria Catholic triumphed in the White Division as both teams had the top four finishers in their respective divisions.

Suburban League: Wadsworth placed three runners among the top six finishers to claim the boys title at Akron's Goodyear Park.

Revere senior Josh Sabo took individual honors with a time of 16:21, besting Wadsworth senior Russell McCune by seven seconds.

Green won the girls championship as juniors Krista Roehlig (19:29) and Kristen Bergmeyer (20:12) were the top two finishers.

Patriot Athletic Conference: Buckeye's Ryan Gallagher (16:36) and Jerome Grzincic (17:04) turned in a 1-2 performance to lead the Bucks to the boys championship at LaGrange Equestrian Center.

The Bucks also won the girls title as Emma Franz was the top finisher in 21:15.

Portage Trail Conference: Defending Division III boys champion Woodridge won the County Division, and Field took Metro Division honors at the Portage County Fairground.

Woodridge's Vibushan Sivakumaran and Doug Miller of Kent Roosevelt were the individual champions.

Woodridge and Kent Roosevelt won their respective girls divisions.

Sim Earich Invitational: Walsh Jesuit had the top three finishers -- and four of the first five -- to run away with the boys division at Trumbull County Fairgrounds. Junior Tony Hawkins took individual honors with a time of 16:57.

The Warriors also had the girls winner in freshman Melinda Renuart at 19:51. Walsh was second to Canfield in the team race.

Boys soccer

St. Ignatius 7, Erie (Pa.) Prep 2: The top-ranked Wildcats completed the regular season 16-0, their third undefeated campaign in the past six years.

Valley Forge 5, Elyria 1: The Patriots (7-7-2) won their third straight Northeast Ohio Conference Lake Division title as five players scored.

Girls soccer

North Royalton 4, Sylvania Northview 3: The Bears (7-5-4) got goals from senior Amanda Tamerlano, juniors Sami Narducci and Allison Harbart and sophomore Allie Kall to upset the Wildcats (12-4) in the regular-season finale.

Shaker Heights 2, North Olmsted 1: Senior midfielder Karli Wise had both goals for the Raiders (11-2-3) on Senior Day. The Eagles dropped to 7-9.

Avon Lake 1, Hathaway Brown 0: Freshman Emily O'Connor had the only goal off a blocked shot as the Shoregals improved to 12-3-1. The Blazers end the regular season at 6-9-1.

Volleyball

Toledo St. Ursula 3, Magnificat 2: The Blue Streaks extended the Arrows (19-1), the No. 2 team in Division I, to five games before falling, 25-23, 25-18, 23-25, 22-25, 15-12.

Senior Brittney Balser had 21 kills, and junior Grace Conroy had 39 assists for the Blue Streaks (12-8), ranked No. 10.

Hawken 3, Columbia 2: Jessica Weiner had 37 assists, and Kennedy Clyde had 12 kills for the Hawks.

OBERLIN, Ohio -- A state berth in girls tennis is like lemonade on a 90-degree day. Once you get a taste, you keep coming back for more. While Westlake's Lauren Golick earned her second straight trip to Columbus earlier in the week, what she did on Saturday at the Oberlin Division I district showed just how much she's ready...

OBERLIN, Ohio -- A state berth in girls tennis is like lemonade on a 90-degree day. Once you get a taste, you keep coming back for more.

While Westlake's Lauren Golick earned her second straight trip to Columbus earlier in the week, what she did on Saturday at the Oberlin Division I district showed just how much she's ready to make a run.

Last year, Golick navigated her way to the state tournament, but bowed out after one match. This season, the nationally ranked sophomore lost just six games at Oberlin en route to a singles district title.

Believe it when she tells you an early exit in Columbus played on her mind this season.

"Losing makes you a better player," she said. "I'm real proud of how I've been playing."

How she played in a 6-1, 6-1, semifinal win over Revere's Natalie Robson was just foreshadowing for her 6-2, 6-2, district final victory over Hudson's Alex Bastock. Golick was superb, attacking when she needed to, going on the defensive when play called for it and playing conservative as Bastock made unforced errors.

What helped even more was breaking her opponent early in each set.

"I think getting [to state] made her aware of her environment," Westlake coach Ralph Dunbar said. "She went down as a freshman, not many do that. It opened her eyes.

"Her want and her desire are a lot greater this year. It's great to do well at sectionals and districts, but you get down there and it's a whole new level, a whole new environment."

That environment comes with the title district champion and Golick should get a better draw this time around.

Last year, Golick finished fifth at Oberlin and had to face Southwest district runner-up Andrea Wolf of Cincinnati Mt. Notre Dame at state. The match ended in straight sets without Golick winning a single game.

That's something Dunbar isn't expecting when his super sophomore takes to the court on Friday.

"The most important thing is the momentum she's carried throughout the season and that should translate down there," he said. "She's taken her game to a whole other level. With that brings a ton of confidence. She's made the most of every situation."

So has the doubles team of Victoria and Mandy Marchant from Kenston.

While the returning state qualifiers didn't win their finals match against Canfield's Allison Pavlansky and Kaitlin Kaleel, they head to the courts at the Stickney Tennis Center brimming with confidence.

The Bombers duo played the match of the day at Oberlin before losing 5-7, 7-5, 6-7 (1).

In the epic battle, the Marchants came back from two match points in the third set to force the tiebreaker.

In the end, it was too much for the Kenston tandem, but they proved something to themselves after the exhausting match.

"That's definitely one we learn from and take with us," Victoria Marchant said. "At state, we know if we're down, we can come back. We needed a tough match like that."

First- and second-round action begins Friday at the Stickney Center with the semifinals and finals taking place Saturday at Hilliard Davidson High School.

Brad Bournival is a free-lance writer from North Royalton

GATES MILLS, Ohio -- What started as a week to forget, ended as one to remember for the top-ranked Division II volleyball team in the coaches state poll. With Monday's loss to No.2-ranked Kenston a distant memory, Lake Catholic regrouped to win four straight matches, including three on Saturday en route to capturing the eight-team Lancer Invitational at Gilmour...

GATES MILLS, Ohio -- What started as a week to forget, ended as one to remember for the top-ranked Division II volleyball team in the coaches state poll.

With Monday's loss to No.2-ranked Kenston a distant memory, Lake Catholic regrouped to win four straight matches, including three on Saturday en route to capturing the eight-team Lancer Invitational at Gilmour Academy.

Lake Catholic (20-2) breezed in a 25-3, 25-17 victory over Fairview (3-17) then to a 25-16, 25-14 verdict over Tiffin Columbian (10-12) before being taken to the limit in a 20-25, 25-17, 25-23 title-match triumph over 14th-ranked Beaumont (17-5).

"We were a little unfocused in the first set and having Bridget [Grdina] go down forced us to make some adjustments we weren't planning," said senior/tournament most valuable player Nicole Snyder, one of two of the Cougars' left-handed rightside hitters. "We just picked up the momentum in the second set because volleyball's all about momentum."

Lake Catholic had a 5-4 lead in the first set when Grdina, a senior outside hitter/Kent State recruit, sprained her ankle and didn't return.

Two kills, a block and an assist by sophomore Lauren Youngblood helped Beaumont break an 18-18 tie and clinch the first set.

"We were trying to go for line and hit off their outside blocker but every spot is different," said Snyder, who teamed up with 6-0 freshman lefty/all-tournament selection Abby Detering for 20 kills.

"They're tough to defend because they have Youngblood in the middle and Dori [Harrison] can just bomb it."

Youngblood and Harrison, an all-tournament junior, were just as effective at the net as the Blue Streaks' twosome totaled 22 kills.

"They play a man-up defense, then switch back and we're not used to that," said Beaumont's all-tournament senior setter Abbey Cvelbar, who gave her oral commitment to Eastern Kentucky prior to the championship match. "Their two lefties on the outside make you adjust line because they're good at cranking it."

All-tournament senior setter Audry Lucha dished out 18 assists and sophomore defensive specialist Sam Kline had a team-high 14 digs for the Cougars.

"Their outsides are small but they set that college, 5- to 7-foot line ball and they move the ball around really well," said Beaumont coach Pat Royer. "We play an option offense so it's about whoever is open and can make a good read on the ball, but Lake's a phenomenal team."

Beaumont advanced to the title match by defeating Solon, 21-25, 25-18, 25-18 before scoring a huge 17-25, 25-20, 25-21 win over the host Lancers (18-4), ranked No.6 in Division III.

"We got away from attacking the middle and I don't why," said Gilmour coach Kelly Coughlin. "After we took the first set from [Beaumont] it was like, 'Yeah, we can win this match,' and played not to lose instead of playing to win."

To reach this Plain Dealer reporter: bfortuna@plaind.com, 216-999-4665

Get Tony Grossi's picks for the Browns game and the rest of the Sunday NFL schedule.

AP File PhotoTom "The Hair" Brady and the Patriots take on the Ravens today in Foxboro.

Baltimore at New England, 1 p.m.

Line: Patriots by 3.

Tony’s take: Patriots will get Ravens caught up in a point-fest. Patriots 30, Ravens 24.

Atlanta at Philadelphia, 1 p.m.

TV: WJW Channel 8.

Line: Eagles by 2½.

Tony’s take: Too bad Michael Vick won’t play against former team. Falcons 25, Eagles 20.

Dallas at Minnesota, 4:15 p.m.

TV: WJW Channel 8.

Line: Vikings by 1½.

Tony’s take: You think Brett Favre wishes he were sitting on a tractor on his farm? Vikings 24, Cowboys 21.

Indianapolis at Washington, 8:20 p.m.

TV: WKYC Channel 3.

Line: Colts by 3.

Tony’s take: Mike Shanahan has Redskins within one win of last season’s victory total. Colts 24, Redskins 16.

Detroit at N.Y. Giants, 1 p.m.

Line: Giants by 10.

Tony’s take: How are the Lions scoring so many points with QB Matthew Stafford out? Giants 32, Lions 27.

Kansas City at Houston, 1 p.m.

Line: Texans by 4½

Tony’s take: Texans can score on anybody. Chiefs are better than we thought. Texans 31, Chiefs 24.

Miami at Green Bay, 1 p.m.

Line: Packers by 3.

Tony’s take: I overrated Dolphins, but Packers are too banged up to win here. Dolphins 23, Packers 21.

New Orleans at Tampa Bay, 1 p.m.

Line: Saints by 4.

Tony’s take: Saints will struggle until their running game improves. Saints 24, Buccaneers 20.

San Diego at St. Louis, 1 p.m.

Line: Chargers by 8½.

Tony’s take: Sam Bradford doing admirable job considering talent around him. Chargers 30, Rams 23.

Seattle at Chicago, 1 p.m.

Line: Chicago by 6½

Tony’s take: Bears defense should crush Seahawks. Bears 17, Seahawks 10.

N.Y. Jets at Denver, 4:05 p.m.

Line: Jets by 3.

Tony’s take: How do you like Mark Sanchez now? Jets 27, Broncos 17.

Oakland at San Francisco, 4:05 p.m.

Line: 49ers by 6½

Tony’s take: Let’s see if Raiders can kick a dog when it’s down. Raiders 17, 49ers 14.

GROSSI UPDATE

Last week overall: 7-7 .500

Season overall: 44-32 .578

Last week vs. spread: 5-9 .357

Season vs. spread: 34-41-1 .453

Peyton Hillis, Alex Mack are good to go. Robaire Smith is out.

Joshua Gunter / The Plain Dealer Peyton Hillis will be in the starting lineup at fullback, and the offensive line will have Floyd Womack and Tony Pashos as starters for today's game.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. -- The good news for Colt McCoy is that all his supporting pieces on offense are in place.

The Browns formally announced McCoy the starting quarterback for today's game. At the same time, they confirmed center Alex Mack, right guard Floyd Womack, right tackle Tony Pashos and running back Peyton Hillis will be in their starting positions, as well. Mack, Womack and Hillis each missed time with injuries in the practice week.

Here are the Browns' inactives: Quarterbacks Seneca Wallace and Jake Delhomme, receiver Carlton Mitchell, offensive linemen Shawn Lauvao and John St. Clair, tight end Alex Smith and defensive linemen Jayme Mitchell and Robaire Smith. There is no designated third quarterback.

To account for Smith's absence on the defensive front, Kenyon Coleman will move to left end and Brian Schaefering will start at right end.

McCoy is the first Browns quarterack in history to make his NFL debut against the Steelers. The last time the Steelers broke in a quarterback from an Ohio team was in 1992 when they faced Bengals rookie David Klingler.

They sacked him 10 times.

Joe Haden's 62-yard return after first NFL interception leads to Phil Dawson's franchise-record 235th career field goal.

PITTSBURGH, Pa. -- Observations, opinions and some facts on the first quarter ...

• Colt McCoy completes first pass on first down to Brian Robiskie. Nice to get that out of the way. A quick pass to Robiskie? How'd they come up with that one?

• Real good pass by McCoy and catch by Evan Moore for 19 yards on third-and-10.

• LaMarr Woodley pushes off Peyton Hillis and gets 9-yard sack of McCoy. Not a great effort of blocking by Hillis. 

• On second-and-long, McCoy's pass for Benjamin Watson appeared to be deflected at the line. It was intercepted by Ryan Clark at the 18 and returned to the 29. SIW's starting already.

• McCoy's first series: two first downs, two completions, one sack, one incompletion.

• Ben Roethlisberger's pump-fake befuddles Sheldon Brown. He pulls Antwaan Randle-El and then falls himself, for a 26-yard interference penalty.

• Once Big Ben gets inside the red zone, however, he is meat. On third-and-4 from the 14, Browns rush three and drop eight. Ben throws way behind Mewalde Moore. Joe Haden makes his first NFL interception at the 3 and zig zags downfield 62 yards.

• With 1:51 to go, Phil Dawson boots a 39-yard field goal to break Lou Groza's Browns NFL career record. No. 235 for Dawson. Browns up, 3-0. McCoy still standing.

Browns receiver Josh Cribbs suffered a head injury when he was drilled helmet-to-helmet by Steelers linebacker James Harrison. He will not return.

CLEVELAND -- Browns receiver Josh Cribbs suffered a head injury with 9:12 left in the second quarter when he was drilled helmet-to-helmet by fellow former Golden Flash James Harrison of the Steelers and will not return.

Harrison also forced Cribbs to fumble on the Wildcat run, but Browns guard Floyd Womack recovered. Cribbs remained down on the field for a few minutes and then walked off with some assistance from trainers. A few minutes later, he walked into the locker room, carrying his helmet.

Harrison was not flagged for the helmet-to-helmet hit. Later in the quarter, Harrison crushed Mohamed Massaquoi after a catch to send him to the sidelines, at least for the final two minutes of the first half.

In other Browns news and notes:

* Rookie cornerback Joe Haden picked off Ben Roethlisberger and returned it 62 yards. It was his first career interception.

* Brian Schaefering replaced end Robaire Smith (back) in the starting lineup.

* Kicker Phil Dawson's 39-yard field goal set the Browns record of 235 field goals, breaking the mark of 234 he shared with Hall of Famer Lou Groza. Eric Mangini congratulated Dawson on the field after the kick.

* Safety Ryan Clark picked off Colt McCoy on the Browns' opening drive, but Haden returned the favor on the Steelers' ensuing possession.

* Steelers receiver Mike Wallace beat Eric Wright on a 29-yard TD catch in the end zone to put Pittsburgh ahead 7-3.