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No. 9 Kansas dominates in second half of 74-66 victory over No. 7 Ohio State

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The Jayhawks, who play their first true road game on Saturday, held Ohio State without a field goal for more than 10 minutes of the second half.

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COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Thad Matta has two quick point guards and two big forwards who can score and a couple really good athletes on the wing, and in his past he has two Final Four trips with the Buckeyes and five Big Ten titles. For the Ohio State coach, his cup runneth over.

Saturday afternoon against Kansas, he would have traded almost any of it, in the moment, for a jump shooter.

"Well, I asked Santa for Christmas to improve our jump shooting," Matta said.

If anyone finds former Buckeye Jon Diebler under their tree, send him the coach's way. Otherwise, No. 7 Ohio State's 74-66 loss to the No. 9 Jayhawks (10-1) may play out a few more times this year against the best of the Big Ten.

The Buckeyes (9-2) won't have many games where they shoot 30.8 percent from the field for the game and 11.1 percent (2 for 18) from 3-point range in the second half. But on a team built on scorers and defenders with no pure shooters, the idea of losing because they've gone cold could reoccur. Although with the Jayhawks making 51 percent of their shots, Matta figured the game could have been a 20-point loss.

"That gives me hope," Matta said. "It's maybe not as bad as I think it is right now."

Much of what the Buckeyes did was pretty good. There was just that one missing piece, the one where the wide-open guy put the ball in the basket. In the second half, Deshaun Thomas, Sam Thompson, Aaron Craft, Lenzelle Smith and Shannon Scott – the four starting guards and forwards and the sixth man – were a combined 6 for 30 from the field and 2 for 16 on threes. For a stretch in the second half, the Buckeyes didn't make a shot from the field for more than 10 minutes, missing 12 straight.

"It changed when we didn't make shots," Thomas said. "We had great shots and they weren't falling. They didn't do anything special on the defensive end. They just played hard. We had great looks, wide-open looks.”

So 31 percent is about as bad as it can get. Only three games in Matta's nine years in Columbus were worse – losses to Texas A&M (24.1 percent) and North Carolina in (27.1) in 2007 and last year's 58-48 home loss to Michigan State (26.4 percent) in February, which touched off three losses in six games and a mini-crisis in Buckeyeland before Ohio State righted itself in March.

The question is whether this is an anomaly or a sign of things to come.

Thomas, averaging 20 points per game, scored 16 points on 4-for-11 shooting, and his biggest problem was Kansas doubling him on every touch near the post and limiting his shots.

"We kind of focused on him and we knew he could go off for 30 easily," Kansas center Jeff Withey said.

Lenzelle Smith is a streaky shooter, and he trended the wrong way Saturday, going 3 for 13 and 0 for 7 on 3-pointers while scoring just six. He'll have games where the shots go in.

But the rest of the Buckeyes don't excel in that area of the game. Craft, Scott and Thompson are good Big Ten players who can win you games, but they just aren't shooters. That probably won't change between now and March, at least not against elite opponents.

"All of these guys have shown that they can shoot the ball," Matta said optimistically. "Now, is it Jon Diebler-like? Probably not. But somehow, some way we have to figure out how we're going to play our best on gamenight, but knowing that they may not go down, so let's find an alternative way."

Matta said the Buckeyes must find ways to win ugly. An aggressive defensive team can't afford even the occasional breakdown when the shots aren't falling. Especially when every defensive stop can lead to quick and easy offense in transition, as Kansas coach Bill Self talked of the Buckeyes flipping Jayhawk turnovers into points in the first half. Ohio State put together a 14-0 first-half run keyed by Scott that gave them a 31-23 lead with six minutes until halftime.

"I just wanted to come in there and push the pace," Scott said. "They weren't getting back on defense at first, so I was able to come in there and do that and create for my teammates. In the second half, they started getting back more, it was harder to do that."


The Buckeyes played Scott and Craft together a good bit to try to take advantage of Scott's ability to create, but that forced the 6-2 Craft to guard Kansas leading scorer Ben McLemore, and the freshman scored a game-high 22.

"He's a great player, but he's surrounded by great players," Craft said. "In the one-on-one situations, he's 6-6 and can shoot over the smaller guys, and he got off early."

So that's a tradeoff. And the Buckeyes know they will often losing the scoring battle inside, where Amir Williams hung tough with six points and eight rebounds, but where Kansas 7-footer Withey scored 14 points and grabbed 10 rebounds and negated Thomas as a potential inside post threat just with his presence.

So the Buckeyes needed outside shooting.

"We knew they were going to shoot threes. We didn't know they were going to shoot that many," Self said. "They basically became a jump-shooting team and that helped us."

That's not a team that Ohio State can be. While it won't always be as bad as Saturday, it might not get much better.


Bengals must end Pittsburgh domination to clinch playoff berth Sunday: AFC North Nuggets

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A win would not only secure Cincinnati's playoff inclusion, but eliminate the Steelers.

dalton-harrison-2012-ap.jpg View full size Andy Dalton and the Bengals can win a playoff berth Sunday, but must defeat some demons in playing James Harrison and the Steelers in Pittsburgh.  

DENVER -- The Cincinnati Bengals can achieve something Sunday they haven't done in three decades -- qualify for the playoffs in back-to-back years. In order to make it happen this weekend, however, they must defeat a nemesis that seemingly has been beating them for the last 30 years.

The Bengals (8-6) can clinch a postseason berth with a victory over the Steelers (7-7) in Pittsburgh. A win would not only secure their playoff inclusion, but eliminate the Steelers.

The Bengals have lost their last five games against Pittsburgh and a combined nine consecutive against the Steelers and Baltimore Ravens. Cincinnati closes the season at home against the Ravens (9-5).

"We're picking up momentum," Bengals safety Chris Crocker told reporters this week. "These teams are postseason teams every year. Pittsburgh and Baltimore are always in the postseason and they always go deep, so it's important for us to play well against them now in order to go in with some momentum if we do make the postseason."

The Bengals last made consecutive playoff appearances in 1981-82. Much like the Browns, they have had difficulty subduing the Steelers for more than a decade. But this Pittsburgh club is reeling due to injuries and offensive miscues. The Steelers have committed a league-high 18 turnovers in the past five games which include four losses.

A week ago, a frustrated Ben Roethlisberger criticized the play calling of offensive coordinator Todd Haley. The quarterback later apologized.

"There are obviously times that we don't [see eye-to-eye], but we get that ironed out," Roethlisberger said. "I'm sure it's that way with every position player and their coach. ... But it's nothing that is a big deal. You work it out, you talk about it and you get it figured out."

The Steelers will be without cornerback Ike Taylor (broken ankle) for a third straight week. That's a big loss considering he held Bengals

Flacco funk: Not long ago, the Ravens-New York Giants matchup looked like a potential Super Bowl preview. Sunday, neither team is assured a playoff spot.

The Ravens are trying to avoid a monumental collapse as they host the Giants (8-6), the defending champions. Three weeks ago, Baltimore was sitting 9-2 and appeared a virtual lock to win the AFC North. Three straight losses have jeopardized their playoff hopes. The Ravens close the season in Cincinnati.

Quarterback Joe Flacco takes much of the blame for the club's longest losing streak since 2009. He has thrown three interceptions and lost three fumbles during that span. A week ago, Flacco was picked off at the goal line by Denver's Chris Harris, who raced 98 yards for a touchdown in a 34-17 loss.

"I'm confident [and] our team is confident," he told reporters in Baltimore. "These are tough situations, but it's about how you stand up. You can't blink. I don't know if we've necessarily been in this kind of situation in the past, but we've dealt with things that are similar and we know how to move forward and push through."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Hey, Mary! The Cleveland Cavaliers have 54 games left, so let's talk about next season

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There are six players with guaranteed contracts for 2013-14 on the Cavaliers' roster.

mary-varejao.jpg View full size Anderson Varejao (17) and Alonzo Gee (33) have guaranteed contracts for next season, while Daniel Gibson, right, and Jeremy Pargo do not.

Hey, Mary: I am very excited about the Cavs. From my minor research there are six guaranteed contracts next year: Kyrie Irving, Dion Waiters, Alonzo Gee, Anderson Varejao, Tyler Zeller, Tristan Thompson. Assuming we take a starting small forward with a lottery pick, we need a backup point guard, backup shooting guard and fourth big man. Are any of these on the current roster or are these the free-agent targets for next year? Perceiving a depth problem on this year's Cavs. -- Alan Martin, Indian Rocks Beach, Fla.

Hey, Alan: It's nice to hear from someone who's optimistic. You are right that the Cavs have many needs, but it's a little early to be able to answer your question accurately. I see them taking the best players available, regardless of position, with their two first-round picks next year. In addition, their roster and financial flexibility leaves them well-positioned to make moves at the trade deadline or next summer, and I think they will try to take advantage of that.

-- Mary

'Chuckstrong' indeed -- Colts' Pagano set to rejoin team after leukemia treatments: NFL Insider

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The stimulus the Colts have drawn from Pagano and his story have to be the biggest intangible in the NFL this season.

DENVER -- At this time of the season, speculation about possible coaching changes fills the NFL news wires, and seldom is pleasant to report.

Not this time, however. Not with Indianapolis Colts coach Chuck Pagano potentially returning to his office Monday for the first time in three months after completing his treatments for leukemia. Pagano's inspiring fight and the way his young team has responded to his message and the coaching of interim Bruce Arians have made for a compelling narrative.

The Colts (9-5), who finished with the league's worst record a year ago, are within a win or a Pittsburgh loss of a playoff spot. They should qualify Sunday as the Colts play in Kansas City. Arians deserves to be NFL Coach of the Year. Pagano deserves to be NFL Man of the Year. The latter award always goes to a player, but if ever an exception could be made ...

"It will be great," quarterback Andrew Luck told the Indianapolis Star of Pagano's return. "I'm sure it will be emotional for a lot of people. But when it comes, and hopefully soon, it'll be very nice to sort of have our head coach back."

Both Pagano and Arians have Browns' ties. Pagano coached the team's secondary from 2001-04. Arians served as offensive coordinator from 2001-03. Whether he accepts them or not, other teams will make Arians head-coaching offers at season's end.

On his current list of priorities, that probably falls somewhere between finding more playing time for his backup quarterback and disinfecting the locker room hot tub. The coach players call "B.A." has given all the credit to them and the indomitable spirit of his good friend.

Even from his hospital bed, Pagano remained connected to his team, sending text messages to his players, according to a Yahoo Sports story. Despite his weakened condition, he attended home games and, after the Nov. 4 win over Miami, asked to address the team. He told his players he planned to live long enough to hoist a Super Bowl trophy with them and dance at his two daughters' weddings. Watch the above clip the next time you want to understand the bond sports provides.

How has a roster filled with unheralded players and a rookie quarterback moved to the cusp of a playoff berth? Well, the Colts have taken advantage of a soft schedule and a bad division save for Houston. Receiver Reggie Wayne has shown there is life after Peyton Manning and Luck has demonstrated why the franchise selected him No. 1 overall. Regardless of his suspect statistics -- 18 interceptions, a 75.5 passer rating -- he has been good with games on the line.

But the stimulus they draw from Pagano and his story have to be the biggest intangible in the NFL this season. It's a bit reminiscent of the 2006 New Orleans Saints and their return to the city following Hurricane Katrina. "Chuckstrong" has driven a team and a community to punch above its weight class.

On Monday, Arians hopes to step aside and allow Pagano to take over. That's a coaching change the entire league can embrace.

Is he or isn't he? National opinion varies on the future of Cleveland Browns QB Brandon Weeden

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Weeden has played well enough to merit another look next season, but uneven enough to leave open the possibility of a serious challenge to his incumbency at training camp.

weeden-lament-cboys-2012-jk.jpg View full size "He's not jumped off the charts," NFL Network analyst Charley Casserly says of Browns QB Brandon Weeden. "The Indy game showed me what he can be, but he's been very inconsistent in the four games I've watched him."  

BEREA, Ohio -- Fourteen seasons into their rebirth, the Browns are starting to demonstrate on-field stability at many positions except, of course, for the one that matters most.

Never mind looking for the next Brian Sipe or Bernie Kosar. Strictly in terms of continuity, Browns might long for the days of Tim Couch. Brandon Weeden became the franchise's sixth opening-day starting quarterback in seven seasons on Sept. 9 after escaping the clutches of that giant American flag. The Browns' turnover leads the NFL during that span, according to the Elias Sports Bureau.

Since his inauspicious debut against Philadelphia, Weeden has played well enough to merit another look next season, but uneven enough to leave open the possibility of a serious challenge to his incumbency at training camp. Especially if, as expected, the Browns make another regime change.

Weeden gets another chance to sway the undecided Sunday in a difficult environment as the Browns (5-9) travel to Denver to face the streaking Broncos and their dangerous pass rush.

"He's not jumped off the charts," NFL Network analyst Charley Casserly, a former Washington and Houston general manager, said of Weeden. "The [Oct. 21] Indy game showed me what he can be, but he's been very inconsistent in the four games I've watched him. You certainly wouldn't pass up a quarterback in the draft if you really liked him."

Another former league executive Andrew Brandt, an NFL business analyst for the ESPN, doesn't believe casting aside Weeden after one season makes sense from a development or financial standpoint. Brandt, who served under new Browns CEO Joe Banner in Philadelphia, could see the team adding a veteran to push Weeden next season.

"I have seen improvement from that first game," Brandt said. "It might be slower than some people like ... but it would seem short-sighted to move on right now a year after drafting him. Ideally, you don't want to give up on a first-round pick so quickly."

The Browns aren't the only team uncertain about their quarterback situation. The New York Jets announced Tuesday they are starting third-stringer Greg McElroy after another ugly outing from Mark Sanchez eliminated them from playoff contention. The change likely signals the end for both Sanchez and Tim Tebow in New York.

As many as nine teams might be in the market for new quarterbacks next year. That total doesn't include San Francisco, which made the mid-season switch to Colin Kaepernick despite Alex Smith guiding the 49ers within one win of the Super Bowl last season. Smith possesses the NFL's third-best passer rating (104.1) this year.

weeden-shurmur-dec2012-jg.jpg View full size If Pat Shurmur, left, remains in 2013, it seems logical Weeden would be his quarterback. But as offensive coordinator Brad Childress notes: "This is a fluid business, as we all know."  

The Browns face an opponent Sunday that felt a need to upgrade at quarterback a season ago after Tebow won them a playoff game. Who wouldn't want future Hall of Famer Peyton Manning, right? For starters, his previous team. The Indianapolis Colts jettisoned the 36-year-old Manning, who missed all of last season after undergoing neck surgery, to make room for No. 1 draft pick Andrew Luck.

While Luck's and Weeden's statistics are comparable, the Colts boast nine wins with a roster that doesn't appear as well stocked as the one in Cleveland. That leads to another Brandt point: If a franchise makes a change at quarterback, the alternative better be the right one.

Brandt was part of the Green Bay management team in 2008 that traded Brett Favre to allow Aaron Rodgers to assume the starter's role.

"It was less about Brett Favre and more about Aaron Rodgers," Brandt said. "Most teams don't have that kind of talent waiting to take over, though."

As he scans the league's quarterback trouble spots, Brandt sees demand similar to a season ago but supply not nearly as bountiful. Casserly agrees with that assessment. Many draft analysts have the top two quarterbacks -- West Virginia's Geno Smith and Matt Barkley -- in the bottom half of the first round.

Weeden is part of one of the NFL's best rookie quarterbacking classes in a generation. The success of Luck, Robert Griffin III and Russell Wilson, in particular, have made Weeden's performances more glaring. At least in the eyes of some.

"When you say that, I go right away to Luck and I note that he's maybe got [six] more touchdown passes, but has one more interception," Browns offensive coordinator Brad Childress said. "I think his passer rating is below Blaine Gabberts, below the kid at the Vikings [Christian Ponder], below a lot of people. Perception wise, does it hurt him coming in? It doesn't hurt him. It's just going to be called a pretty doggone strong class as it goes forward, I think."

In his weekly chat with the press, Childress said he wants Weeden to make the "routine" throws better and expects him to show improvement by training camp. If coach Pat Shurmur is retained it seems logical Weeden would be his quarterback, but as Childress noted: "This is a fluid business, as we all know."

Unlike Shurmur and General Manager Tom Heckert, Weeden isn't likely to know his fate anytime soon if a change at the top gets made.

Some believe a new offensive approach might benefit a quarterback whose skill set doesn't seem best suited for the West Coast game. He's had more balls swatted back at him than Gaylord Focker playing swimming-pool volleyball. Some of his 21 batted passes can be attributed to his numerous three-step drops and penchant for locking onto his primary receiver.

Casserly believes the strong-armed quarterback is more efficient at throwing short- and intermediate-route passes. Yes, he's hit on some deep balls, but has missed on many others.

Weeden has registered 14 touchdowns and 17 interceptions, the picks ranking tied for second most in the league behind Luck and Drew Brees. He's also accrued a respectable 3,281 yards, while attempting the ninth-most passes (498). You might like a few more TD strikes, but his rookie teammate Trent Richardson has lessened the need to pass near the goal line with his 11 touchdowns -- second most among running backs.

The Browns potentially could trade for a quarterback such as Michael Vick, Matt Flynn, Smith or, if you believe speculation out of Boston, Ryan Mallett should Josh McDaniels become head coach. Such deals likely would cost the Browns prime assets -- remember they don't have a second rounder due to the Josh Gordon supplemental pick.

Would Smith play as efficiently in Cleveland as in the Bay Area?

"[Coach Jim] Harbaugh and [offensive coordinator] Greg Roman are as good as it gets in developing quarterbacks and building game plans around them," Casserly said.

Weeden's poor showing against Washington in which he was outplayed by rookie Kirk Cousins sets up a tricky finish. The Broncos and Pittsburgh Steelers rank among the top four in total defense. A three-game losing streak and a string of bad outings would increase the pressure on a quarterback who turns 30 next season.

Childress reminded the press of Manning's first season in Indianapolis, which included 28 interceptions and just three wins. He also threw 26 touchdowns and was the No. 1 overall pick with strong NFL bloodlines.

"Is one year time?" Childress said. "I don't think so. I think typically, you're judging those guys two- and three- and four-year increments, if you give them that long."

Right now, Weeden might sign up for the Couch plan.

Kent State wins at home, 73-69, over Arkansas State

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Randal Holt scored 19 to lead the Flashes to their seventh win. Chris Evans added 16 and freshman guard Kellen Thomas had 14.

KENT, Ohio -- Kent State got into a hole early against Arkansas State Saturday night in the MAC Center, dug themselves out to take a halftime lead, then ground out a 73-69 victory by surviving a nail-biting finish.

Leading by seven, 69-62, a pair of Randal Holt miscues triggered a Red Wolves run to within 71-69 with 38.1 seconds left. But Chris Evans hit a pair of free throws to seal the win. Evans finished the game with 16 points while Holt had 19 and freshman guard Kellen Thomas had a career-high 14.

"Tough win for us,'' Kent coach Rob Senderoff said. "This was like a MAC game. These guys are good and experienced. It's a good win for us."

Kent's 19 turnovers (six by Holt) was evidence ASU's defense was good enough to complete the late rally for a road win. But Kent toughened up, passed the ball cleanly and crisply against the pressure, then made the free throws.

"We knew we had to be strong with the ball,'' said Holt, who snapped out of his scoring slump with a team high 19 points. "We were playing keep-away."

A key component late was Thomas, who played 24 minutes as starting guard Kris Brewer was saddled with foul trouble. The rookie delivered a big 3-pointer when ASU had closed a nine-point Kent lead down to 61-60.

The victory also came with starting center Melvin Tabb getting just three points in seven minutes due to illness.

"He was sick, and he looked it,'' Senderoff said. "I was hoping we'd get the (Michael) Jordan flu game from him, but we didn't."

Instead Mark Henniger stepped up with seven rebounds and seven points plus a pair of steals.

"Mark came up big, really big for us," Senderoff said as Kent had a 32-31 advantage on the boards.

Kent State (7-5) has struggled at home, already losing to Temple, Valparaiso and Princeton. To regain a home edge, the Golden Flashes needed a strong effort against Arkansas State (6-5).

It did not start off well as the Red Wolves hit five of their first six shots, building a 14-4 lead. But the Flashes responded with a 17-2 run to take their first lead of the game, 21-16. Holt scored six of his 10 first-half points during the surge.

Kent led 40-34 at halftime.

Off the bench, Thomas and Henniger countered the offense from Arkansas State's freshman guard, Cameron Golden, who had 13 of his 15 points in the first half, including 3-of-6 on 3-pointers.

This was the first of two matchups between Kent and the Red Wolves over the next 15 days as the football teams meet Jan. 6 in the GoDaddy.com Bowl in Mobile, Ala.

All Byron Scott wants for Christmas is a few good practices: Cleveland Cavaliers Insider

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Arriving on the day of game reminds Byron Scott of the good old days.

scott-waiters-pacers-2012-ap.jpg View full size Unable to have many practices due to the Cavaliers' busy schedule, Byron Scott is looking forward to getting more time in the gym during the holiday break with Dion Waiters and the rest of his young roster.  

MILWAUKEE -- Byron Scott is an old-school guy, and Saturday's trip here reminded the Cavs coach of the good old days, when teams flew on commercial flights and had to take the first flight out the morning after a game.

Now teams fly charters. If they're playing a back-to-back on the road, they leave after the first game, getting to the next city late at night. The Cavs tried to leave Cleveland after Friday night's loss to Indiana, but were delayed by the weather. So they flew in Saturday morning, arriving about 11:30 a.m. for the 7:30 p.m. game against the Bucks.

"It was different," Scott said before the game at the BMO Harris Bradley Center. "It reminded me of the old days.

"For these guys, it might be a little different. They're not used to this. They're used to having the luxury of flying out the night before. So we'll see how it affects them. I just hope they got some sleep last night. They were able to sleep in their own beds. We got up this morning and didn't take a real early flight. I think the only thing it kind of affects is their afternoon routines, and hopefully it shouldn't affect it that much."

As Scott pointed out, the Cavs already have played the Bucks twice this season, including eight days ago in Cleveland. So he knew he wouldn't have to deliver a lengthy pre-game scouting report.

"We know this team pretty well," Scott said. "It's the third time we're going to be playing them."

Back to work: While everybody else looks forward to a break around the holidays, Scott welcomes a busy work schedule. As this was the final game of five consecutive back-to-backs, practice time has been extremely limited.

While the team will take Sunday off, it likely will work out on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day before flying to Washington for a game on Wednesday. Then it will be back to practice on Thursday as he tries to get players recovering from injuries -- such as Kyrie Irving and Dion Waiters -- used to playing together again.

Asked what was lost without practices, the coach said, "The cohesiveness is the biggest thing -- guys getting to really know each other. Dion and Kyrie both being out at the same time and now both back, their development of getting to know each other and being the type of backcourt that we know they can be has been hampered because of their absence and being on the floor in practice together.

"We have a lot of little things that we have to get straight. Practice really can take care of a lot of that. Since we haven't had a whole lot of time to practice, a lot of those things have fallen by the wayside and we've just got to try to get them back.

"Monday and Tuesday and Thursday can have some real practices and try to get back to the basics on both ends of the floor. Practices won't be light. That's for sure. We have a lot of little things we have to go over and we've got to re-emphasize a lot of things that have been slipping since we haven't had a chance to practice."

Vroom, vroom: Christmas at the Gibson household is going to be busy. Daniel Gibson's son, Daniel Gibson Jr., who will be 3 in March, is into race cars and he'll be getting a Big Wheels for Christmas.

"His favorite word is 'wow,'" Gibson said. "He'll be saying that a lot."

On Twitter: @pdcavsinsider

Relentless Mentor storms past Euclid, 81-51

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MENTOR, Ohio -- It was not as pretty as Mentor coach Bob Krizancic would have liked, but anytime you can beat a long-time rival by 30 points it can't be all bad. With five players scoring in double figures Saturday, host Mentor pulled away in the third quarter and ended up rolling past Euclid, 81-51. The Cardinals, ranked No.5...

MENTOR, Ohio -- It was not as pretty as Mentor coach Bob Krizancic would have liked, but anytime you can beat a long-time rival by 30 points it can't be all bad.

With five players scoring in double figures Saturday, host Mentor pulled away in the third quarter and ended up rolling past Euclid, 81-51. The Cardinals, ranked No.5 in the area, are 5-0, while Euclid falls to 2-5.

"We're still sloppy with the basketball," Krizancic said. "We didn't shoot well, but I liked our attitude and our mentality. One of our mantras is 'no fear' and I think we showed that for the most part."

The Cardinals struggled from beyond the 3-point line, making just 12 of 39 attempts. In the Mentor program, part of showing no fear is being willing to take an open shot when you have it, regardless of the outcome.

"I thought a lot of our misses were good shots," Krizancic said. "A lot of them were right there."

Jeff Foreman led the way with 16 points, followed by Conner Krizancic and Brody Nelson with 14 each, Caleb Potter with 13 and Kade McClure with 12. Krizancic scored all of his points in the second half and Nelson got his despite playing with two broken fingers. Ty'Lynn Alexander led Euclid with 13 points.

"They're a tremendous basketball team," Euclid coach Greg James said. "They don't ever get tired. [To beat them] you have to have eight guys sprinting up and down the floor the entire time who also can play basketball."

Mentor jumped out early, taking leads of 7-0, 13-2 and 15-3. Euclid fought back to cut the margin to seven, 17-10, after one quarter, and early in the third period it was 37-30 when the bottom dropped out for the Panthers. Mentor hit three consecutive 3-pointers in less than two minutes and with 2:42 remaining in the quarter the lead was up to 57-34 after a 20-4 run.

"They move the ball so well and they run their offense so well," James said. "A couple times we cut it back down to a workable score and then all of a sudden, boom, boom, boom, and the next thing you know you're down 23. It drains you."

It's part of the Mentor game plan.

"We've got to get those runs," Bob Krizancic said. "We talk about getting two major runs per half. Even against the really good teams we count on getting those runs."

Many of the players were members of the football team that reached the state semifinals and are just rounding into basketball shape. Brandon Fritts, one of their top players from last year, should make his debut next week when the Cardinals play in the Arby's Classic in Bristol, Tenn.

Joe Magill is a freelance writer based in Auburn Township.

 


Cleveland Cavaliers end 9-game losing streak to Milwaukee Bucks with a 94-82 win

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The Cavaliers beat the Bucks to end a nine-game losing streak to Milwaukee.

Gallery preview  

MILWAUKEE, Wis. -- Before the game between the Cavaliers and the Bucks Saturday night, Milwaukee coach Scott Skiles was asked how it was possible that his team had won nine straight against the Cavs.

Skiles thought for a minute and then said, "Luck?''

His luck ran out on Saturday when the Cavs ended their second six-game losing streak of the season with a 94-82 victory.

"I feel a little bit better now,'' Cavs coach Byron Scott said. "It was a good win.''

Dion Waiters had 18 points, C.J. Miles added 16, Kyrie Irving had 15 and Tristan Thompson finished with 14 points and 14 rebounds for the Cavs, 6-23.

Monta Ellis had 37 points for the Bucks, 14-12.

The last time the Cavs beat the Bucks was more than two years ago, on Nov. 24, 2010, when Mo Williams hit a 3-pointer at the buzzer of an 83-81 victory in Cleveland, and then jumped on top of the scorer's table to celebrate. It was early in Scott's first season.

"Can't remember,'' Scott said, shaking his head. "Was that my first year? That seems so long ago.''

The last time the Cavs won in Milwaukee was Dec. 6, 2009. Mike Brown was still the coach, and LeBron James was still a Cavalier. Delonte West scored 21 to spark a 101-86 victory.

Both teams have undergone complete transformations since then. The Cavs are still trying to find some traction after departure of James, while the Bucks traded centerpiece Andrew Bogut for Monta Ellis in an effort to jump-start their rebuilding. Even their building changed names from the Bradley Center to the BMO Harris Bradley Center.

The Bucks just kept beating the Cavs. Until Saturday night.

After 10-year-old Jahbarri Bradshaw blew the roof off the place with his soulful version of the national anthem, it was pretty much downhill for the Bucks.

Both teams were playing second night of a back-to-back, the Cavs losing at home to Indiana, the Bucks winning in overtime at Boston. Cleveland, missing starting center Anderson Varejao (bruised right knee) for a third game, was winding up its fifth straight set of back-to-backs, Milwaukee its third.

The Cavs, who arrived here at 12:30 p.m. Saturday afternoon after bad weather cancelled their flight on Friday night, recovered faster.

They led at the half, 46-37, and then built their lead to 67-47 with about four minutes left in the third quarter. Ellis, who had 17 points in the third quarter, had nine as Milwaukee closed out the period on a 16-2 run to close to 69-63 before a short jumper by Irving restored the Cavs lead to 71-63 heading into the fourth quarter.

"It was big,'' Scott said of Irving's shot. "I really thought we played a pretty solid game. Just like most young teams, you're going to lose a little focus at times, like we did in the second half when they made that furious comeback. But we got it back together and were able to hold on for the win.''

Should the Cleveland Browns be protecting Trent Richardson from injury? Hey, Mary Kay!

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It's another edition of beat writer Mary Kay Cabot's mailbag.

trich-reax-td-chiefs-jg.jpg View full size With Trent Richardson still effective around the goal line, the Browns aren't going to be taking him out of the lineup before the end of the season.  

Hey, Mary Kay: Isn't it time to sit Trent Richardson for the season? If he's hurt, let's start the healing now. Let Montario Hardesty and the rest play out the season. -- Rich M, Schaumburg, Ill.

Hey, Rich: If Richardson hasn't rested from the torn cartilage in his ribs by now, it's not going to happen. He's 103 yards away from the 1,000-yard milestone, and it's important for him to reach it. He probably should've rested a few games right after the injury, but it's not in his nature. Likewise, he probably shouldn't have started the opener four weeks after knee surgery, but he wouldn't have it any other way. Richardson is hurting more than he's letting on, but he's not coming out.

Hey, Mary Kay: Is there any chance of keeping the great coordinators and assistant coaches in the event Pat Shumur is released? Can they keep Dick Jauron and other coordinators? Or do their contracts link to the head coach? -- Chris Colla, New York, N.Y.

Hey, Chris: I think a new head coach would want to bring in his own coordinators. However, if the coach is coming out of the college ranks or is a younger coach, I could see the Browns encouraging him to keep Jauron. The young defense is headed in the right direction and Jauron has done a great job all season.

Hey, Mary Kay: Is there any reason why the Browns don't try a spread offense with Brandon Weeden in the shotgun in a hurry-up mode? Also, the Colts and Redskins brought in veteran receivers to help their rookie quarterbacks. Do you believe Weeden's transition would have been easier if he had veteran receivers like Andrew Luck and Robert Griffin III have? -- Rich Smith, Columbus

Hey, Rich: The Browns' current regime is not about to scrap their West Coast scheme, but they have given Weeden a chance to showcase his strong arm and take shots downfield. Yes, I think it would've been easier if Weeden had some veteran receivers this season. The Browns tried to sign Pierre Garcon and Josh Morgan in free agency, but Washington beat them to the punch. They also felt Mohamed Massaquoi was poised to step up, but his hamstring injury prevented that.

Hey, Mary Kay: Do you think Colt McCoy should be given a second chance to start next year? Last year Colt threw 14 TDs to 11 INTs, only starting 13 games, having no running game, lots of dropped passes, and no off-season. Do you think that the Browns could sign 49ers QB Alex Smith? -- Ian Kinnaird, Novelty, Ohio

Hey, Ian: I think McCoy should at least be given a chance to compete for the job. He probably should've been given that chance in training camp this year. If nothing else, it would've pushed Weeden. I think the Browns will make sure they have the best QB they can find for 2013, whether it's Weeden, McCoy or someone else. I think they'll look in the draft, free agency and at trades. They know how important it is and will leave no stone unturned.

Hey, Mary Kay: How many draft choices will the Browns have to give up to pry Kirk Cousins away from Washington? Will we be able to outbid St. Louis? -- Karl W., Maine

Hey, Karl: With teams often needing two quarterbacks to get through a season -- and with Robert Griffin III sacrificing his body on every play -- I doubt the 'Skins will be willing to part with Cousins, especially after the game he had against the Browns.

Hey, Mary Kay: Do you think Weeden is a bad fit for the West Coast offense? I would think that with a strong-armed quarterback you would want him to fling it outside more to avoid the batted balls. I just seem to think he will benefit with a more traditional offense (maybe next year). -- Josh Reed, White Oak, Pa.

Hey, Josh: I think Pat Shurmur and his staff have done a good job of adapting the West Coast offense to Weeden. There are plenty of opportunities for him to take shots downfield, and he's ninth in the NFL with 498 attempts. As for the batted balls, he needs to lock on to receivers less. It's something Joe Haden warned him about in training camp on those three-step drops.

Hey, Mary Kay: I believe in the young talent the Browns have acquired. I do not have any faith in Shurmur, it is my belief that his 'offense' does not work in the NFL. It has been two years and it's the same, no open receivers. What say you? -- John Sparks, Columbus

Hey, John: The West Coast and all of its variations are proven. It's the players operating it that make the difference. The Browns are young, inexperienced and developing. Brandon Weeden, Trent Richardson, Josh Gordon and Travis Benjamin will be all be better next year. It's also a precision, timing-based scheme, and it's just not there yet.

Hey, Mary Kay: Is it true the NFL offers its players a 24/7 provide-a-ride service to discourage them from drinking and driving? -- Mike Knapp, Penfield, Ohio

Hey, Mike: Yes, it's true! No excuses for NFL players to drink and drive. All they have to do is pick up the phone.

-- Mary Kay

Terry Pluto's Talkin' ... about Trent Richardson's value, a speedy Brown, a big future for a big Cavalier and the hit-or-miss prospects of a new Indian

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Trent Richardson isn't anything like a former Browns rookie RB who eventually disappointed fans.

richardson-preps-grimace-2012-jk.jpg View full size If Trent Richardson hasn't been the next Jim Brown in his rookie season, he's done enough to convince Terry Pluto of his long-term value.  

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- In the spirit of the season, some festive thoughts ...

About Trent Richardson ...

I know you're not supposed to begin an argument with a negative -- as in, "I'm not saying ..." But we're talking Browns here, so fans know how that goes.

Anyway, "I'm not saying Trent Richardson is having a great season -- or that he'll end up with the 1,200 yards rushing I expected from him. But I will say this. He's not William Green."

I've received a couple of emails with that comparison, and had a few people mention it to me. Green was the Browns' first-rounder (16th pick in the 2002 draft). He ran for 887 yards (3.7-yards per carry) as a rookie, helping the Browns make the playoffs. Richardson is at 897 and 3.5 with two games left.

So there you are ... another William Green.

I won't even get into the character issues, as Green had several that destroyed his career. He played only three more years, never gaining more than 559 yards in a season. But as a rookie, Green rushed for six touchdowns -- Richardson has 11. He caught 15 passes -- Richardson leads the Browns with 48 catches.

I wished Richardson danced less and hit holes harder at certain points in the game. I wish he had more than two runs for 20 yards. I wish that 3.5 yards per rush was over 4.0. But I also know he played the season-opener four weeks after knee surgery. He's never been close to 100 percent physically. He is playing with a rookie quarterback and young receivers, and most teams don't respect the Browns' passing game.

I love his grit near the goal line. He gets in the end zone, important on a team that had only four rushing TDs in 2011. His receiving is taken for granted. He has become Brandon Weeden's favorite receiver when the rookie QB can't find anyone open.

Yes, Tampa Bay's Doug Martin (1,250 rushing, 397 receiving) is the best all-around rookie back. Those draft-day comparisons to Adrian Peterson seem silly -- I never made them, considered it unfair.

But I will say I like Richardson. I expect a better season in 2013 and I refuse to consider him a mistake in the first round ... much less another William Green.

About the Browns ...

benjamin-punt-td-chiefs-2012-cc.jpg View full size Travis Benjamin's obvious speed in his limited action with the Browns should mean more playing time in 2013.  

1. Travis Benjamin caught a 69-yard touchdown pass last week against Washington. The rookie had a franchise-record 93-yard punt return for a score the previous week against Kansas City. He's caught only 11 passes, but averages 19.0 yards. He's run the ball five times for 51 yards -- so all of those reverses must not be so terrible, as some fans claim.

2. The point is that the 5-10, 170-pounder probably isn't big and strong enough to be a regular receiver, but his speed makes him a real weapon. It's doubtful CEO Joe Banner will consider Joshua Cribbs cost-effective as a returner in 2013, especially with Benjamin ready to assume that role.

3. Josh Cooper will be active for Sunday. For a while it appeared he was regaining his chemistry with Weeden -- they played together at Oklahoma State -- but he had a few minor injuries, and Mohamed Massaquoi finally got healthy. Massaquoi is hurt again, a knee this time.

4. This is Massaquoi's fourth season and he's done little but suggest he's a mediocre receiver. He has only 17 catches, and eight in the past five games since returning from his latest injury. He has one drop, but there is no indication he has a knack for getting open or breaking big plays.

5. In four years, Massaquoi has caught 118 passes. He has only seven career TDs, two in the past two seasons (23 games). Greg Little, Josh Gordon and Benjamin are all ahead of him at this point in terms of looking at 2013.

6. It wouldn't be a shock if Massaquoi is not re-signed after the season. Assuming that happens, the Browns will have nothing to show for three second-round picks in 2009 made by Eric Mangini's front office. The first to be cut was linebacker David Veikune. Next was receiver Brian Robiskie. Now we are probably watching the end of Massaquoi in an orange helmet.

7. While some fans want far more of Montario Hardesty, the Browns believe he is best suited as a backup because of his extensive injury history. He has 220 yards in 48 carries (4.6 average). Yes, they can give him the ball more than twice a game (as they did last week) -- five to 10 carries make sense. But let's not forget he's had two knee injuries in his three seasons with the Browns. This is the first time he has stayed healthy all year.

About the Cavaliers ...

zeller-pistons-cavs-2012-mct.jpg View full size Tyler Zeller (blocking a shot by Detroit's Andre Drummond) has the physical talent to be a productive NBA big man, says Terry Pluto.  

1. There are several reasons to be excited about Tyler Zeller, partly because the rookie still has far more game than he's shown so far. Zeller entered the weekend averaging 7.4 points, 4.9 rebounds and shooting 47 percent in 22 minutes. Solid numbers. But consider he's played part of the young season in a mask after suffering a concussion and a broken nose.

2. The real improvement should come if the coaches demand Zeller spend part of offensive sets at the low post near the basket. He does have some jump hooks and other inside moves that he often displayed at North Carolina, where he was the Atlantic Coast Conference Player of the Year last season. With the Cavs, he's mostly taking medium to long jumpers, and it's easy for a big man with a decent outside touch to fall in love shooting from the outside.

3. Zeller is a 7-footer with long arms. He can improve on his rebounding and inside play. He also may become more aggressive now that his nose is healed. He had 20 points in Boston, but only three rebounds. He was 5-of-10 on shots from at least 15 feet, 4-of-5 on shots within three feet of the rim.

4. Generally, big men (even four-year college players) take longer to adapt to the pro game because the size and athleticism is so different than college. Zeller has seldom appeared intimidated or overwhelmed. Look for him to take some significant steps forward. He can play center or power forward.

5. Dion Waiters played seven games when Kyrie Irving was injured. The Cavs were 2-5, with Waiters averaging 17.4 points and 5.5 assists. He handled the ball, which is his comfort zone. His shooting was 35 percent -- about what he's shot for the season. You can see how he is able to dribble past most defenders to the rim, and that he can grow into a scorer.

6. Part of Byron Scott would probably like to keep C.J. Miles starting at shooting guard. He averaged 22.5 points in four starts when Waiters was hurt. But the coach knows the future backcourt is Irving and Waiters, and he wants them playing together as much as possible. Waiters needs to learn how to play without the ball -- moving to receive passes.

7. Rookie guards are racking up some lousy shooting percentages. Portland's Damian Lillard is receiving raves for averaging 18.5 points, but he's shooting only 41 percent (36 percent on 3-pointers) -- and this guy has a super shooting touch. No. 3 pick Bradley Beal is averaging 12.5 points for Washington, but shooting only 36 percent. So the Cavs aren't alarmed by Waiters' 36 percent -- they just want him to drive and look for better shots. He is shooting 57 percent from the 10- to 15-foot range, and should shoot more from there instead of heaving up 3-pointers.

8. After a dismal November (5.9 points, 29 percent shooting), Miles entered the weekend averaging 15.4 points and shooting 45 percent in 10 December games. Fans can see why Chris Grant wanted the wing player, he brings energy and a scorer's mentality this team needs.

About Mark Reynolds ...

reynolds-swing-os-2012-ap.jpg View full size Mark Reynolds' big swing doesn't make contact as often as most fans would like, but his power should be helpful to the Tribe next summer.  

Talking to the Tribe about the signing of Mark Reynolds, I was told the following:

1. His 23 homers in 2012 were a career low, but still more than anyone else hit for the Tribe. Carlos Santana led the team with 18. Reynolds' 69 RBI would have been third on the Tribe, only Jason Kipnis (76) and Santana (76) had more.

2. He stays healthy. In the past five years, his 135 games in 2012 were his fewest.

3. He can play an above-average first base. He's not strictly a DH.

4. The Indians have no first basemen, and they have no DH. At least, none with extensive major-league experience. Better Reynolds than another year of Travis Hafner never knowing when his body will allow him to play.

5. It's a one-year, $6 million deal. There are incentives that can make it worth $7 million if he has 500 plate appearances. It's not a long-term or expensive commitment. If he flops, they can dump him.

6. Yes, he's led the league in strikeouts in four of the past five years, but he's also averaged 32 homers and 85 RBI.

7. His value dropped in the view of baseball people because his defense deteriorated at third base. The Indians will only use him there as an emergency. His strikeouts can drive you nuts when he comes to bat with a man on third and less than two outs. Many teams have decided the strikeouts, low batting average (.214 over the past three years) and lack of speed just aren't worth it.

8. He is a right-handed hitter, although it doesn't matter much in terms of hitting lefties. In the past three seasons, he's at .217 (.808 OPS) against lefties, .213 (.764) against righties. He's 4-for-22 (no homers) at Progressive Field.

9. Reynolds is 29 and he's joining a team with very little power at the major-league or even the high minor-league levels. The Indians think he's worth a shot as they try to upgrade a roster that ranked 13th in runs scored and 12th in homers in the 14-team American League.

10. I'm not especially sold on Reynolds. If the Indians keep shopping for DH/1B possibilities so he doesn't have to bat 550 times, the addition could be somewhat useful.

About the Tribe ...

1. Roberto Hernandez -- the former Fausto Carmona -- signed a $3.25 million deal with Tampa Bay, where he can start fresh. Consider that Hernandez pitched only three games last season (7.53 ERA) for the Tribe. He was 7-15 with a 5.25 ERA in 2011. Yet, he still received that one-year guaranteed deal. The Indians thought about keeping him, but decided it was best for both parties if Hernandez went elsewhere.

2. So-so starting pitchers are receiving lucrative contracts. Edwin Jackson was 10-11 with a 4.03 ERA last season. He is 70-71 with a 4.40 ERA for his career. He signed a four-year, $52 million deal with the Cubs. Pittsburgh signed Francisco Liriano (6-12, 5.34 ERA) to a two-year, $14 million deal. Jeremy Guthrie (8-12, 4.76 ERA) signed a three-year, $25 million deal with Kansas City.

3. The Tribe is shopping for a starting pitcher, but it's doubtful that will come via free agency. They want to find a starter with control. Last season, the Indians ranked second in walks. Ubaldo Jimenez and Justin Masterson were in the top five in walks among American League pitchers.

4. New manager Terry Francona and pitching coach Mickey Callaway visited Carlos Santana and Jimenez in the Dominican Republic. Callaway is trying to find a way to smooth Jimenez's pitching motion.

5. When Reynolds was signed, the Indians took Russ Canzler off the 40-man roster. He was claimed by Toronto. I thought Canzler showed some promise. He batted .297 (.697 OPS) with three homers and 11 RBI in 93 late season at-bats for the Tribe.

It's been a winter of work for new Cleveland Indians manager Terry Francona

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Terry Francona has been the Indians' manager fewer than three months, but a lot has taken place.

stubbs-swing-reds-2012-squ-ap.jpg View full size New Indians outfielder Drew Stubbs "has a high strikeout rate, but he can run, play good defense and hit the ball out of the park," says manager Terry Francona. "There's a lot to like."  

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- During the latest leg of the Meet Terry Francona Tour, he went from the winter meetings in Nashville, Tenn., to the Dominican Republic to wining and dining free agent Nick Swisher last week in Cleveland. In between there were stops in Tampa, Fla., and Yeehaw Junction, a tiny dot on the map marking the convergence of the Florida Turnpike, US 441 and SR 60.

Francona is resting in Arizona for the holidays, but it will not be long before he's moving again. He's scheduled to make a January stop at the Texas Baseball Ranch in East Texas to see new Indians pitcher Trevor Bauer lead a pitching clinic. Then it's back to Cleveland and finally onto Goodyear, Ariz., for spring training with pitchers and catchers reporting Feb. 10.

"I was in Boston for eight years and I knew everybody," Francona said. "I don't have that with these guys and it's driving me crazy."

Francona managed the Red Sox from 2004-11. He won two World Series and averaged 93 wins. The Indians, who have lost 93 or more games in three of the past four years, hired him as manager Oct. 6. He's been on the job for less than three months, but things have been hopping.

Francona's most pressing concern is waiting for his phone to ring with word of Swisher's decision. The Indians have made the switch-hitting outfielder a four-year offer for an estimated $50 million. Three other teams -- believed to be Seattle, Texas and Boston -- are said to be bidding for Swisher, whose camp is not expected to make a decision before Christmas Day.

If Swisher signs with the Indians, it would complete their starting outfield along with Michael Brantley and Drew Stubbs. It would be a big acquisition for the Tribe and a big loss if Swisher goes elsewhere.

Francona has named his coaching staff and been involved in GM Chris Antonetti's two biggest off-season moves to date: the signing of free-agent first baseman Mark Reynolds and the acquisition of Bauer, Stubbs and relievers Bryan Shaw and Matt Albers for Shin-Soo Choo, Jason Donald, Tony Sipp, Lars Anderson and $3.5 million in a three-way deal with Cincinnati and Arizona.

"I thought Chris did a phenomenal job," Francona said. "Choo is a really good player, which is the reason we were able to get so much in return. But he's a Scott Boras client and he has one year left before he becomes a free agent.

"Bauer is a good pitcher. Two years ago he was the No.3 pick in the country. There are some unorthodox mechanics, but we need young pitching. I'm familiar with Albers from Boston and Shaw has good stuff.

"Stubbs is an excellent athlete. I think he was shocked at the time of the trade. Cincinnati is his first team and felt like they were family. But I think he recognizes the opportunity here. He has a high strikeout rate, but he can run, play good defense and hit the ball out of the park. There's a lot to like."

Reynolds, like Stubbs, strikes out too much. But he hits right-handed and he has big-time power, averaging 33 homers per season over the past five years.

"We desperately need right-handed power and he gives us that," Francona said.

terry-francona.jpg Terry Francona has no problems with temperamental Tribe closer Chris Perez. "I know he ruffled some feathers last year, but, really, that's none of my business," he said. "This guy is good. I'm excited about watching him pitch."  

In the Dominican, Francona talked to Ubaldo Jimenez, who has lost 30 games the past two years. He watched Jimenez and prospect Danny Salazar throw bullpen sessions at the Indians' academy. The Dominican winter league was at its All-Star break, so catcher Carlos Santana drove to the academy to meet Francona.

Francona saw some of the future as well. Shortstop Dorssys Paulino, who hit .355 (61-for-172) in 41 games last season for the Arizona Rookie League Indians, was working out at the academy.

When he returned from the Dominican, Francona stopped in Tampa and went to dinner with closer Chris Perez. He knew Perez spent a lot of last season taking verbal shots at ownership, the front office, fans and former manager Manny Acta.

"I know he ruffled some feathers last year, but, really, that's none of my business. This guy is good. I'm excited about watching him pitch."

The next day he drove across state to Yeehaw Junction to meet Brantley, who drove from Port St. Lucie on Florida's east coast. They met at the Desert Inn, a landmark weather-worn bar and hotel. It was either that or Subway.

Brantley, with the arrival of Stubbs, could be moving to left field after playing an excellent center last season. "We talked about that a lot," said Francona. "I told him he'd never be moved out of center field unless I talked to him first."

The next morning Francona had breakfast with first baseman Matt LaPorta. He's not only coming off surgery, but he's out of options and is going to have a tough time making the team.

"What I've been trying to do is to reach out to as many players as I can," Francona said. "Now I can come into spring training and not be meeting so many of these guys for the first time. We've already got a little bit of history."

It didn't take Bauer long to wear out his welcome in Arizona. His personality, more than his unique training methods, seemed to sour his teammates. The Indians, however, are determined to make Bauer comfortable.

New pitching coach Mickey Callaway has already met Bauer at a pitching clinic. He'll accompany Francona to the Texas Baseball Ranch. Callaway and Derek Falvey, Indians director of baseball operations, are in the process of changing the way Tribe pitchers condition their arms. Part of the program will include more long tossing, a staple of Bauer's routine.

"Everyone is different. We're not going to try and clone guys," Francona said. "I want him to understand that. What I can about is a player being [talented] and a good teammate."

Compensation: If the Indians sign Swisher, they would lose those their second-round pick in the June draft. They would keep their first-round pick, fifth overall, because teams with one of the top 10 picks cannot lose it through compensation.

Plan B: Outfielder Cody Ross had been on the Indians' radar, but has signed a three-year deal with Arizona. The Indians were interested in Edwin Jackson and Francisco Liriano, but lost out to the Cubs and Pirates, respectively. Kyle Lohse and Joe Saunders are two starting pitchers they're interested in.

On Twitter: @hoynsie

Nick Swisher signing is a stunning move by Cleveland Indians - Terry Pluto

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I knew the Indians were serious about Nick Swisher, but I'm stunned they made the deal happen.

Cleveland Indians lose to New York Yankees, 3-1 Nick Swisher has put up big numbers in games played at Progressive Field in recent seasons.  

Nick Swisher signs with the Tribe?

Signs a four-year, $56 million deal?

Maybe exclamation points should be at the end of those sentences, not question marks.

But I’m still stunned that the Indians made this deal happen — although it won’t be officially announced until Swisher passes a physical.

I knew the Tribe was serious about Swisher. I knew they had some money to spend, as $18 million left the payroll with the departures of Travis Hafner and Grady Sizemore.

And I knew the Indians put a lot of thought into Swisher’s visit last week, as the free agent outfielder and his wife toured Cleveland.

But I also know how these things usually go. The player receives a solid offer from the Tribe, then his agent takes it to the team where the player prefers to sign.

That happened with Shane Victorino, who passed up the Tribe’s offer (four years, $44 million) to sign with Boston (three years, $39 million).

Now, fans should be grateful Victorino turned down the Tribe, because Swisher is a far better fit for this team.

When Swisher visited the Indians, I began to think about an outfield of Michael Brantley in left, Drew Stubbs in center and Swisher in right field.

A significant upgrade over last year’s outfield of Shin-Soo Choo, Brantley and Shelley Duncan/Johnny Damon and the cast of thousands in left field.

But then I said, “Nah, it won’t happen.”

But it happened.

Gave the fourth year

While the Indians wanted to make the guaranteed part of the contract only three years because he’s 32, Swisher preferred a four-year deal.

Rather than lose Swisher, the Tribe guaranteed the fourth year and added a team option for a fifth year at an estimated $14 million. That fifth year can become guaranteed if Swisher meets certain incentives in the first few years of the contract.

At $14 million, Swisher becomes the highest-paid player in team history. Hafner made $13 million in the final four years of his contract.

Over the past seven years, Swisher has never played fewer than 148 games. The durability is why the Tribe decided to give the fourth year.

Also, he can play a very solid first base. So if defensive problems arise in the outfield, the Tribe will move him to first.

In the past three years, Swisher has batted .274 (.844 OPS), averaging 25 homers and 89 RBI.

He’s a switch-hitter, batting .296 vs. lefties and .263 vs. righties.

An Ohio State product, Swisher does like this area. One of the selling points for the Tribe to Swisher was that he would be a focal point for the team in terms of fan and media attention — and Swisher enjoys that. In New York, Swisher was one of several stars.

Swisher hit .272 (.873 OPS) with 24 homers and 93 RBI for the Yankees last season. Supposedly, New York didn’t want to sign him to a long-term deal, as the Yankees are working to cut their payroll in 2014 because of luxury-tax concerns. Reports are General Manager Brian Cashman was told to bring the payroll down to $189 million in two years. They were at $209 million this season.

Tribe starts to spend

Meanwhile, the Indians have added Swisher ($14 million), Mark Reynolds ($6 million) and paid $3.5 million as part of the Trevor Bauer/Choo deal. So they are spending, at least more than in the past.

And yes, the Dolans gave the green light to these moves, just as they did to the hiring to veteran manager Terry Francona.

Francona actually played for Swisher’s father, Steve, in the minors. The new manager was part of the sales pitch for Swisher to join a team that has lost at least 93 games in three of the past four seasons.

Give General Manager Chris Antonetti credit for attacking the problem against left-handed pitching, as the Indians were last in the American League against lefties with a .215 average. In 2011, they hit the fewest homers (40) against lefties.

Reynolds and Stubbs are right-handed hitters, Swisher is a switch-hitter, but actually has been better against lefties (.296) than righties (.263) in the past three seasons.

Swisher also has pounded Tribe pitching, hitting .375 (1.090 OPS) against his new team in the past three seasons. In that span, he’s a .395 hitter at Progressive Field.

While Antonetti may have a little more money, he also has Asdrubal Cabrera and Chris Perez available for trades. The Indians desperately need starting pitching, and that will have to be addressed in a deal rather than through free agency.

But so far, the Indians are an improved team, from the manager’s office to the playing field, thanks to some bold winter moves — Swisher being the biggest and most shocking.

Even as I’m writing this, I still find it hard to believe Swisher is coming to the Tribe. He is not a superstar, but he is legitimate run-producing outfielder who now becomes the most expensive free-agent acquisition in Tribe history.



Sunday's inactive list has few surprises for Cleveland Browns

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Mohamed Massaquoi has likely played his last game with the Browns.

eric hagg.JPG View full size Eric Hagg will be getting an up-close and personal experience with Peyton Manning today.  

DENVER -- No surprises among the Browns inactives today in Denver.

They are receiver Mohamed Massaquoi, running back Brandon Jackson, safety Tashaun Gipson, linebacker Adrian Moten, defensive lineman Ishmaa'ily Kitchen, offensive lineman Jarrod Shaw and tight end Jordan Cameron.

With Gipson (foot) out and safety T.J. Ward on injured reserve with a bone bruise in his knee, Eric Hagg is set to start at free safety and Usama Young will move to strong safety, as expected.

Massaquoi's knee injury means he's likely played his last football as a Brown. Massaquoi, who missed five games earlier this season with a pulled hamstring, has caught only 17 passes this season and is a free agent after the years.

Massaquoi's absence means rookie Josh Cooper is active today for the first time in five games.

“It’s nice to get back out there,'' Cooper said. "I’ve been up and down all season and I really have to stay in the moment and study the playbook because you never know when you’re going to get the call and it came my way so I’m excited to get back out there and hopefully make a difference.”

In other Browns news:

• Linebacker James-Michael Johnson, who's on injured reserve with a knee injury, said he doesn't need surgery, just rest. He's wearing a brace on the knee.

• Brandon Weeden knows he'll have to watch out for Broncos veteran cornerback Champ Bailey, an 11-time Pro Bowler.

"He's a first-ballot Hall of Famer,'' said Weeden. "The guy can play. He's a guy that still plays, 14 years in the league, playing at a high level. He can run just as well as he did five or six years ago. The guy can play. They're good. They don't have any weak links. They do a great job of defending the pass, they do a great job of mixing the coverages, they're just a very sound, well-coached football team. You can tell that there's not many holes. We have to be on point and have to execute well on first and second down to five ourselves a chance to be successful.''

• Browns defensive end Jabaal Sheard was looking forward to playing against four-time NFL MVP Peyton Manning.

"He's definitely the best I've faced as far as just being smart and being aware of where everybody is,'' said Sheard. "He gets rid of the ball so fast, like and he's always on point, so definitely.''

Sheard admitted he's a little in awe of Manning. "Yeah, I guess so, but I'm just going to go play my game. I'm looking forward to it. It's going to be fun. I've been wanting this for a while.''

Sheard said he can't be fooled by all of Manning's gyrations and calls at the line.

"You probably have to be more disciplined in getting off the ball a little later, because there's so much things he does with his voice and moving his body,'' he said. "You've just got to watch the ball and get the best get-off you can. My main focus is getting past the tackle. When I get past him, I'm there basically.''

Sheard has recorded four of his five sacks in the past six weeks.

Cleveland State can't hold up against Akron and loses, 87-57

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Zips use powerful inside game to subdue Vikings.

13champMF11.jpg Cleveland State had no answer for Zeke Marshall and the other Akron big men.  

The Akron Zips finally went to their strength, a powerful inside game, and Cleveland State paid the price for it as the Vikings were overwhelmed, 87-57, Sunday afternoon at Akron's Rhodes Arena.

"Give it to Akron, they played their butt off," said Cleveland State coach Gary Waters. "They played with a vengeance."

With 7-0 Zeke Marshall, 6-9 Demetrius Treadwell, 6-8 Nick Harney and 6-11 Pat Forsythe all bigger, longer and stronger than any post player the Vikings had, the foursome combined for 56 points in the blowout on 22-of-32 shooting -- along with pacing Akron's dominance on the boards, 43-23.

"This might have been the best all-around game we've had," said Treadwell, who scored 15 points. "And the better is yet to come."

Sadly for Cleveland State (5-5), this was only a 10-minute ballgame, as the Vikings were behind, 21-9, with 10:37 to play in the first half -- and it would only get worse. Waters would call three of his timeouts before intermission, trying to slow the Zips (6-4), but it just wasn't happening, with Treadwell and Marshall dominating.

"I expect that," said Marshall, who scored 18. "We should dominate the paint."

Treadwell agreed: "We most definitely should dominate the paint every night."

Against the undermanned Vikings, Akron turned away from its seasonlong flipper mentality -- launching 3-pointers at the first sight of the rim -- in favor of its clear inside advantage. The Zips went to Treadwell and Marshall after the jump ball, and they combined for 20 of Akron's 42 halftime points (and 33 for the game) as the Zips built a comfortable 42-25 lead.

Cleveland State came within 49-38 early in the second half, but Akron responded with a 19-1 run to make the outcome clear, even as CSU freshman Junior Lomomba, who is recovering from a broken foot, delivered a career-high 16 points.

"That's probably just the second time all year we could play the way we wanted to play," said Akron coach Keith Dambrot. "We knew they were going to try to out-tough us and outlast people. That's how they play. We knew we had a big advantage in there. That put them in a big bind. What was important [for the Zips] was to go down in, go down in and go down in."

The Vikings were too small at the rim to contend with the Zips, with little depth in the backcourt against Akron's pressure as CSU had 10 turnovers at the half and 15 for the game.

With 6-9 Anton Grady (knee) sidelined along with 6-8, 260-pound junior Devon Long (suspension), CSU was left with 6-7 Marlin Mason as the starting post, with 6-9 Luda Ndaye, who is recovering from hip surgery and 6-8 freshman Aaron Scales, off the bench. That trio combined for six points, all by Ndaye.

Both teams entered the game losers in two of their past three games, with the victories coming against weaker competition. With a third of the season in the books, this was a measuring stick for both the Vikings and the Zips. For Akron, it's a sign that good things are ahead. For CSU, without its full complement of players, this could be a tough season.

But a difficult stretch is over, as alternating six-game suspensions for Ndaye and Long ended with Long missing the Akron game. When the Vikings take on Rio Grande on Friday and Kent State on Jan. 2, they will be as close to full strength as they will be all season.

"There were some secondary [NCAA] violations in the athletic department, which we uncovered and self-reported, an extra-benefits issue," said CSU Athletic Director John Parry. "No other basketball players were involved."

Parry wouldn't confirm what those violation were. He also wouldn't confirm if, or how many, other CSU athletes in other sports were penalized.


Cleveland Indians projected lineup for 2013

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With the addition of Nick Swisher, here a projected lineup that manager Terry Francona can consider for 2013.

CLEVELAND, Ohio --  With the addition of free agent outfielder Nick Swisher, here is a look at the Indians' projected 2013 lineup. Player stats are from 2012:

Pos. Player              Bats Avg.    R    2b  3b  HR  RBI  SB    OBP    Slug
CF Michael Brantley   L   .288    63   37   4     4   60  12    .348   .402
2B Jason Kipnis         L   .257    86   22   4   14   76  31    .335   .379
SS Asdrubal Cabrera S   .270    70   35   1   16   68   9     .338  .423
RF Nick Swisher         S   .272    75   36   0   24   93   2     .364  .473
C  Carlos Santana     S   .252    72   27   2   18   76   3     .365  .420
1B Mark Reynolds      R   .221    65   26   0   23   69   1     .335  .429
DH ?                          ?    .256    76   27   2   23   83   6    .328   .430*
3B Lonnie Chisenhall L   .268    16     6    1    5   16    2    .311   .430
LF  Drew Stubbs        R   .213    75   13    2  14   40  30    .277   .333

*Stats based on average production from an American League DH last season,  according to ESPN.


Here's how Nick Swisher's deal ranks on the free-agent scoreboard this offseason

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The Indians and outfielder Nick Swisher have agreed to the fifth richest free-agent deal this winter. Swisher has to pass a physical to make the deal official.

 CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Nick Swisher's four-year, $56 million deal with the Indians ranks as the fifth-richest deal given to a free agent this off-season.
 

Top free agent signings

PlayerTeamYrs.Value Avg. per year
Zach GreinkeDodgers6$147 mill.$24.5 mill.
Josh HamiltonAngels5$125 mill.$25 mill.
Anibal SanchezTigers5$80 mill.$16 mill.
B.J. UptonBraves5$75 mill.$15 mill.
Nick SwisherIndians4$56 mill.$14 mill.

• Swisher's deal is the third largest this winter signed by a position player behind Hamilton and Upton. Greinke and Sanchez are pitchers. 

• Breakdown: Swisher will receive $11 million in 2013, $15 million in 2014, $15 million in 2015 and $15 million 2016. If he gets 550 plate appearances in 2016, and passes a physical at the end of that season, a $14 million option for 2017 will vest itself.


 

Cleveland Cavaliers forward Luke Walton is an old hand at coming off the bench

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Walton played a season-high 24 minutes in the win over Milwaukee and gave Cavaliers coach Byron Scott some good production off the bench.

cavaliers-walton.jpg View full size Cleveland Cavaliers forward Luke Walton had seven points, six rebounds and three steals in Saturday night's win over the Milwaukee Bucks and Ersan Ilyasova.  

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Cavaliers forward Luke Walton limped over to the bench at the end of the Cavs' 94-82 victory in Milwaukee on Saturday night and announced, "I'm just old."

Cavs coach Byron Scott prefers the term "experienced."

When Scott was looking to sub for Tristan Thompson midway through the first quarter, he looked down his bench at Kevin Jones and Samardo Samuels, then his eyes settled on Walton.

"It was just one of those things," Scott said. "About the 5:50 mark, I was thinking, 'Which big am I going to put in? Kevin? Samardo?' I just said, 'You know what? I'm going to go with a veteran, a guy I know knows what he's doing out there at all times.' That's Luke. First quarter and second quarter, he played extremely well, and it carried over in the second half as well."

In fact, the 32-year-old Walton played a season-high 24 minutes and registered season highs in virtually every category, including points (seven), field goals made (three), field goals attempted (nine), defensive rebounds (five), total rebounds (six), assists (four) and steals (three).

No wonder he was limping. But he said he hadn't hurt himself.

"I've sprained my ankle so many times, literally, the ligaments aren't really doing anything," he said. "Muscle holds it up now, so when that muscle gets fatigued, it just rolls. I went to jump, and it rolled over on me.

"The good thing about not having any ligaments left is you can't sprain anything. So it doesn't hurt afterwards. Just let it calm down, let the muscles relax and let the embarrassment go away."

Walton, who has battled back issues throughout his career, will likely be fine by the time the Cavs travel to Washington to play the Wizards on Thursday -- if Scott decides to use him again. Perhaps the toughest thing about this season for the veteran is not knowing exactly when -- or how -- he will be used.

"It makes it more difficult, but I've done that in my career before," Walton said. "It is more challenging, but it's about staying ready and keeping working. It gets tough when you're playing four in five nights every week and you don't know when [the minutes] are coming. But it's something I've done before, so I'm fine with it."

Throughout the summer, many wondered if Walton would be with the Cavs when the season began. Given his age and his $6 million salary on a young team that was rebuilding, there were questions about whether he'd be traded or released. With an expiring contract, it's possible he could be part of a deal at the trade deadline, should the Cavs decide to make a move.

But for now, Walton is content and the Cavs are thrilled to have a veteran with his experience and leadership.

"I think everyone wants to play for a title, but right now I'm happy here," said Walton, obtained at the trade deadline last year in the Ramon Sessions deal after spending the first nine years of his career with the Los Angeles Lakers. "We've got a good, young team, good guys I like playing with, and my back feels good. Obviously, you want to play for a title, but I'm enjoying what I'm doing and I'm enjoying this situation right now."

Scott enjoys having him.

"Luke is one of those guys who just knows how to play," Scott said. "He makes guys around him better, always seems to make the right play."

Cleveland Browns are 5-10 with one meaningless game to go: How much talent do they have? (poll)

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Does a young Browns team have an above- or below-average talent level, or in between? Where are they lacking?


CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The Cleveland Browns have won five games this season and lost 10, following today's 34-12 loss to the Broncos in Denver.

They will finish their 2012 season next Sunday with a game against the Steelers in Pittsburgh.

Browns vs. Steelers is, of course, considered a big rivalry, though the teams have seldom been good at the same time. Regardless, Sunday's game will match squads with little to play for in terms of team accomplishment.

The Browns will finish last in the American Football Conference North Division, with their fifth straight losing season and the 12th in 14 years since Cleveland rejoined the NFL as a franchise in 1999.

The AFC North rival Steelers are 7-8, eliminated from playoff contention and losers in five of their last six games.

Pittsburgh's second loss in its late-season collapse was at Cleveland, by 20-14, on Nov. 25. Third-stringer Charlie Batch, then 37 and now 38, played quarterback for the Steelers in that contest because of injuries to Ben Roethlisberger and Byron Leftwich. Pittsburgh committed eight turnovers, not all of them forced by the Browns' defense.

The win over Pittsburgh improved the Browns' record to 3-8. It began a three-game winning streak for Cleveland, preceding a 20-17 win over the Raiders in Oakland and a 30-7 home victory over the Kansas City Chiefs. 

Kansas City's 2-13 record is tied for worst in the NFL with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Oakland is 4-11 -- or, 2-11 not counting its two wins over the Chiefs.

The Browns own a 7-6 home win this season over the 6-9 San Diego Chargers. In hindsight, Cleveland's most impressive win of the season was probably the 34-24 victory at home over the 9-6 Cincinnati Bengals. It was the Browns' first win after opening the campaign with five defeats.

On the other hand, Cleveland has played respectably in some rather close games against superior teams. That, though, usually is the case over the course of a losing season.

One thing that can be said for the Browns is that they do have one of the league's youngest teams.

Here, we ask about the Browns' level of playing talent. We don't bring coaching into the equation. We just want to know what you think of the Browns' playing talent.




Cleveland Browns vs. Denver Broncos: 2012 NFL Megablog and live chat

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Participate in our in-game chat and post-game show with Dennis Manoloff and Glenn Moore in the comments section.

decker-reax-td-brns-ap-2012.jpg View full size Eric Decker celebrated his touchdown catch against Sheldon Brown and the Browns in the second quarter Sunday afternoon in Denver.  

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Welcome to Week 16 of the NFL Megablog as the Browns visit the Denver Broncos, otherwise known as "yes, Eric Hagg, that is Peyton Manning, and he's looking right at you."

The Browns reached 10 losses again in the season with the 34-12 loss to the Broncos.

Don't forget our in-game chat and post-game show with cleveland.com's Glenn Moore and The Plain Dealer's Dennis Manoloff in the comments section. As always, remember the guidelines!

8:02 p.m.: From @MaryKayCabot: "#browns Trent Richardson leaves in walking boot on left foot. Says not broken"

7:48 p.m.: From @LivyPD: "that's 11 ten-loss or worse records in the 14 years since the #browns returned. Can you say, "Bah, humbug," kiddies? "

Then, moments later: "I bet Jimmy Haslam can say "Bah, humbug." #browns"

7:44 p.m.: Terry Pluto is thinking about frustrated Browns fans after another 10-loss season for the home team.

7:12 p.m.: Browns use all starters -- except for McCoy -- to finish this out. McCoy is sacked and hit hard on third down -- and falls on the back of Richardson's legs. Richardson limps off the field. On fourth down, McCoy is sacked once again.

Good thing the Browns took those extra timeouts. Richardson needs help to get to the locker room.

Osweiler's kneedown ends it. It's the ninth season in the last 10 in which the Browns have reached double-digit losses.

Broncos 34, Browns 12, 1:55 left in fourth quarter

7:06 p.m.: Matt Prater's 41-yard field goal nearly clears the netting behind the goalposts ... what a place to kick the ball.

Two-minute warning: Broncos 31, Browns 12

7:03 p.m.: Who knew there was a NFL fine for any teams who leave road games with timeouts in their pocket? Nope, didn't know that either. Browns burn final timeout, and Broncos resume running the ball up the middle and set up a fourth-and-5 at the Cleveland 23 at the two-minute warning.

7 p.m.: Sorry 60 Minutes ... the Browns are calling timeouts on defense with 3:45 left. Moreno ends that foolishness, presumably, with a 20-yard run for a first down.

Nope ... Browns call a second timeout.

6:58 p.m.: The 20th penalty of the day -- Browns false start -- precedes a 15-yard run by McCoy, who then hits Benjamin at the Broncos 48. You can hear the McCoy devotees in full throat already, can't you?

Except there is those ungainly bounced throws -- the third of which is for Watson at the 30. McCoy still rusty moving up in the pocket. Second-down pass is wide for Benjamin. Third-down attempt for Watson is three feet too high. Browns go for the fourth-and-10 ... McCoy is sacked by Dumervil at the Browns 45.

Arizona State rookie Brock Osweiler, all 6-8 of him, has replaced Manning at Denver QB.

6:53 p.m.: With Weeden officially declared out -- as if that was not already understood -- the Broncos start again at their 20. A short run and a false start against Denver makes it second-and-13 at the 17. Manning does his thing with his arms -- and hands the ball off anyway, which figures to have been the call all along. On third-and-12, right tackle Orlando Franklin jumps ... nothing like NFL teams playing out the string of a blowout!

Hester gets three yards and the Broncos burn off two minutes by doing pretty much nothing. Cribbs fair catch at the Browns 27 with 4:50 left.

Broncos 31, Browns 12, 7:56 left in fourth quarter

6:47 p.m.: Starting at the 20 after the touchback, McCoy scrambles for 8 but Von Miller flagged for offside and Browns accept the penalty. Which the Browns give right back with a false start on John Greco. McCoy finds Travis Benjamin on left sidelines for nine yards. On second-and-1, McCoy bounces it to Benjamin at the 35.

McCoy sneaks for the first down, only the second of the half for the Browns.

With Dumervil charging around left tackle, McCoy is wide of Watson at the 40. McCoy steps up again and bounces it again, this time to Watson. McCoy looks as rusty as would be expected -- and the Broncos are doing nothing but playing pass.

Dumpoff to Richardson is stopped five yards short of the first down by LB Wesley Woodyard. Browns go for the first down at their 36 ... and a circle route to Richardson gets the first down at the 42 -- carrying Mike Adams the final two yards.

McCoy's best throw of the series is a line drive to Benjamin for 24 yards to the Denver 37. Then he finds Little over the middle for 12 more to the 25. McCoy, scrambling right, throws across his body to Ben Watson at the Denver 6, and Adams is called for pass interference.

Adams is slow to rise after the play, needing help to walk off the field.

First and goal at the 6, McCoy hits Little at the goal line and the receiver stretches his arms over the line for the score. Browns go for two ... McCoy's QB draw stopped a yard short.

6:35 p.m.: Passing edge for Broncos -- with nearly an entire quarter remaining -- is 339-85.

From @dmansworldpd: "What time is it? C-Mac Time. When legends are born. #browns"

Broncos 31, Browns 6, 12:11 left in fourth quarter

6:33 p.m.: No reason for the Broncos to play up-tempo any longer. With a 135-23 edge in offense so far this quarter, Manning gets four yards from Moreno on first down. A second-down pass is deflected by John Hughes, incomplete. On third down, Browns called for offside, on Parker. Third and a long 1, Manning in shotgun throws high for Tamme and it falls incomplete. Good coverage of Hagg.

Colquitt's punt muffed by Cribbs at the 20 and Broncos recover -- Lance Ball, a reserve RB, comes out of the scrum with the ball at the 19.

Manning gestures, calls out a Browns blitz and throws a post to Thomas, drawing an interference call on Skrine. From the 1, the Broncos bring in a third tackle and Manning overthrows Dreesen in the left corner.

Mitch Unrein, a backup defensive tackle, pulls in motion and Jacob Hester blasts into the endzone for the score. Broncos have a 147-point edge in second-half scoring this season.

6:25 p.m.: Cribbs returns 34 yards to the Browns 28. McCoy with Hardesty in the backfield. Hardesty gets five over the left guard. McCoy is high for Watson over the middle -- it's his first pass that matters this season. On third-and-5, checkdown to Ogbonnaya is stopped for no gain -- it's a Browns tradition, regardless of QB.

Hodges' punt dropped by Holliday, but recovered by Chris Harris at the Denver 28.

Broncos 24, Browns 6, 14:53 left in fourth quarter

6:19 p.m.: Skrine may have gotten away with contact on Thomas on third-and-4, but the ball goes long for just the third failed third-down attempt of the day for Denver.

Matt Prater converts the field goal from 27 yards.

6:17 p.m.: From @treedPD: "Weeden has suffered a right shoulder injury. Return questionable"

End of third quarter: Broncos 21, Browns 6

6:16 p.m.: As Dan Fouts, the Hall of Fame QB, speculates that Weeden's body language resembles a collarbone injury, Manning converts a third-and-7 with a pass to Stokley on the right side at the Browns 36. Denver is 9-for-11 on third downs today.

Skrine played Thomas aggressively on first down, but a back-shoulder fade by Manning is caught at the Browns 15. Moreno gets seven at the Browns 8 off left end. Moreno stopped by Robertson and Juqua Parker for a two-yard loss at the 9 as the quarter ends.

From @MaryKayCabot: "#Browns Weeden looked like his right hand was hurting. No press box announcement yet."

6:12 p.m.: Weeden appears to have a right shoulder/arm injury and is leaving the field.

6:12 p.m.: McCoy, in his first dropback of the season, is sacked for a three-yard loss. Hodges, from his endzone, punts to Holliday at the 50 and he gets to the Browns 47.

6:09 p.m.: After touchback, Weeden incomplete on Richardson checkdown, and then is sacked by Miller, who was never touched off the right side of the Browns line. Weeden never had a chance.

Weeden hurting and needs help on the field. Colt McCoy warms up as trainers take a look at the Browns' rookie QB.

6:06 p.m.: Browns had two chances for TDs today, but on third down settled for a checkdown on one series and were sacked on the second. Broncos are not going to lose to a team that kicks field goals. Just saying.

6:05 p.m.: From @MaryKayCabot: "#Broncos Manning now has 72 3 TDs game, ties Brett Favre for NFL record."

Broncos 21, Browns 6, 4:33 left in third quarter

6:02 p.m.: Skrine is 10 yards off Thomas, which makes the quick slant an easy eight yards for Manning on the first down. Moreno over left tackle gets the first down at the 19.

Browns attempt a safely blitz, but a quick screen to Stokely gets three yards. Manning is belted by the lineman trying to block Billy Winn and the pop fly Manning throws drops harmlessly 12 yards downfield. On third-and-7, Manning hits Decker for a first down -- Decker fumbles but whistles blew before he hit the ground. Wouldn't have been a turnover anyway, as Skrine is called for holding.

First down at the Denver 31, Moreno gets a yard at left tackle. Browns using various zone blitzes, but Manning gets five yards in a flip to Thomas with Sheard covering in the right flat. On third-and-4, Manning waits as the pocket collapses but hits Tamme perfectly on a deep cross for 33 yards to the Browns 30.

Hillman up the middle for four yards. Pace of the Broncos' no-huddle has slowed a bit, but not the effectiveness. Manning's second-down pass deflects off Decker's hands directly to Brandon Stokley for a first down at the 14. Not that the Broncos need breaks or anything.

Manning hits Moreno on the left side to the 3. First down and goal brings a Hillman run to the 2, but Broncos are flagged for illegal formation. That just gives Manning more room to throw ... and against a Browns blitz Manning is right on target to Decker against Buster Skrine at the 2 and Decker powers in for his second TD catch of the day.

Just your everyday, routine 91-yard drive on 12 plays.

5:52 p.m.: Just an idle thought -- Phil Dawson is 37 and is more accurate than ever, with more production from long-distance. Detroit's Jason Hanson is 42 and still an NFL staple.

So why would the Browns not keep Dawson?

5:51 p.m.: Dawson bounces his kickoff to the 5, and coverage traps Trinton Holliday at the 9 as the Broncos get the ball for the first time this half.

Broncos 14, Browns 6, 11:09 left in third quarter

5:49 p.m.: Browns start the second half at the 20 after a Prater touchback. Trent Richardson has his best run of the half with 13 on first down over left guard. Weeden really needs to learn how to slide on scrambles -- he gains four yards after good coverage by the Broncos, but just hasn't learned the proper technique.

Weeden on target with a slant to Little for eight yards and a first down at the Browns 45. A delay to Richardson gets nine yards and two feet to the Broncos 46. Weeden scrambles left, finally decides to go for the first down and slides just past the sticks -- and draws a personal foul from Champ Bailey for a helmet hit. Replays suggest the call wasn't correct -- Bailey never really made contact above the shoulders.

Browns now at the Broncos 29 and the visitors have a chance to make a game of this. Chris Harris keeps Richardson from getting more than a yard on first down. On second-and-9, Weeden underthrows Gordon at the 5. Weeden may have expected Gordon to cut inside after breaking free, but the rookie kept going downfield.

Flags fly as Von Miller and Elvis Dumervil meet at Weeden for a six-yard sack. Hold against Mitchell Schwartz is declined.

Dawson, from 53 yards, is good by five yards.

5:38 p.m.: Terry Pluto is dazzled by Peyton Manning's efficiency (at least until the late interception) in his halftime scribbles.

Halftime: Broncos 14, Browns 3

5:28 p.m.: A rare case of stripped gears by the Broncos offense. First, they mess up the playcall after the timeout and are flagged for delay of game. Then, on a roll to the left, Manning's pass for Moreno in the end zone is off-target and picked off by Usama Young on a diving catch.

Official review whether Young had control before hitting the ground. The ball was in his hands, but the point was facing down when he hit the ground, and that often draws skepticism by the refs.

Dan Fouts isn't sure whether it's a catch, although Doug Dieken is certain its good in the Browns radio booth.

Officials say the pick stands. With just 14 seconds left, the Browns take a knee to end the half.

5:23 p.m.: From @MaryKayCabot: "#Browns Sheldon Brown, out with head injury, replaced by Buster Skrine. Brown gave up 2 TDs, but had great coverage on both."

5:22 p.m.: Trevin Wade in for Sheldon Brown. False start on Broncos makes it second and 8 from the 34. Slant for Stokely draws a late flag on Wade, who did grab Stokley's shoulder as he went by. Wide open on first down is TE Jacob Tamme, a former Colt, for 34 yards to the Browns 24. Manning goes for the throat to Stokely, but overthrows him.

Second down at the 24, draw to Moreno is blown up by Ahtyba Rubin for a four-yard loss. Manning gesticulating on third down, then delivers a perfect 15-yard out to Eric Decker against Buster Skrine for a first down at the 13. Perfect pass and route. Quick circle route by Moreno gets five yards to the 8 with 27 seconds left. Moreno gets just a yard over left tackle and Broncos call their second timeout with 21 seconds.

5:16 p.m.: From @terrypluto: "Manning now has 33 TD throws compared to 10 INTs."

Manning is also 16-for-22 for 164 yards.

Two-minute warning: Broncos 14, Browns 3

5:15 p.m.: From the 6, Moreno gets nothing as Sheard and Taylor combine for no gain. In the endzone on second down, Manning hits Decker with Frostee Rucker making the tackle in a zone blitz coverage for five yards. Manning finds Thomas for 30 yards on a crossing pattern, but Sheldon Brown was victimized by an offensive pass interference pick by Stokely at the 15.

Brown is still down, and this is the worst-case scenario for the Browns and their undermanned secondary. He finally gets some help off the field after being down for about a minute. Replays show Stokely clearly throwing a shoulder at Brown instead of running his route.

On third-and-10 at the 6, Manning throws to Moreno just four yards downfield, but the middle screen gets some good blocks and Moreno gets to the 18 for the first down. Yes, we know, that never happens for the Browns on third down.

Incomplete pass to Matt Willis on first down. Craig Robertson is late covering Moreno in the flat and gives up a first down play for 14 yards on the swing. Moreno again up the middle for six yards and Manning will wait for the two-minute warning.

5:10 p.m.: With both teams having three possessions so far, Broncos have a 192-137 edge in offense.

5:08 p.m.: Montario Hardesty in for Richardson, gets two yards over left guard. On second down, a wheel route to Hardesty on the right side gets a first down at the Cleveland 20.

Play action on first down works just fine, as Weeden uses the deep drop to have a clear line of sight to Little at the 37, and Little goes out of bounds at the 41.

Hardesty cuts left and then sharply up field for six yards. Little gets a yard as a checkdown target on second down. Third-and-3 at the Browns 48, Weeden scrambles and is just off on a pass to Watson 12 yards downfield. Ball was just a little too far out in front. Hodges punt is fumbled by Jim Leonard but recovers at the 5. Bad luck for the Browns, who had Johnson Bademosi back at the 1 looking to down the ball deep, but was too far away to beat Leonard to the rolling ball at the 5.

5:02 p.m.: Joel Dreesen overpowers Usama Young on an out and gets 13 yards on a Manning pass to the left flat. Phil Taylor does a nice job of overpowering the middle of the line to stop Moreno for a yard on first down at the 25. Play fake by Manning is well defensed by the Browns to stop the pass to Moreno, but Sheldon Brown is called for holding to give Denver the first down at the 32.

Hillman gets the pitch left and jitterbugs through the defense for 12 yards to the 44 of the Browns. Manning finally has a weak throw, incomplete to Thomas in the left flat. Browns have been in a 4-2-5 defense for most of the half, to little effect, but on second down the line gets pressure from Hall Davis, a late add to the roster this week, and forces another incompletion.

Third-down pass to Thomas is far too long by Manning, with Brown getting his feet tangled in the coverage. Britton Colquitt's first punt of the day is caught by Josh Cribbs who gets several blocks -- unfortunately at least two illegally to the back of Broncos in coverage -- and his return to the Denver 35 is brought back deep into Cleveland territory.

As CBS works to catch up on commercials, this game has eight minutes left in the half. The other two late starts -- in Baltimore and Arizona -- are still in the first quarter.

4:54 p.m.: On third-and-7 at the 45, Weeden's throw to the sidelines is dropped by Little two yards short of the sticks. Reggie Hodges' punt is fair caught at the Denver 12.

With the Broncos and Manning in full-out attack mode, the Browns are the tennis player who has had his first two service games broken. Not very competitive.

4:52 p.m.: From @twithersAP: "How can every official miss that? Guess it allows for more commercials, and isn't that what it's all about?"

4:50 p.m.: After Matt Prater touchback, Richardson starts the Browns' second series of the game with five yards over right tackle. Tight end screen to Alex Smith goes nowhere thanks to quick reaction by DE Justin Bannan. On third-and-8, Weeden hits Watson on a deep crossing route for 19 yards to the 41.

Cribbs lines up in Wildcat -- Weeden out left as a receiver -- and Cribbs sweeps right for three yards. One tipoff on Wildcat -- teams seldom run to the side the QB lines up. Weeden overthrows Watson and Rahim Moore scoops the ball off -- or nearly so -- the turf and returns 62 yards for the touchdown.

On replay, ball clearly bounces before Moore gets to the ball, but the officials call timeout to review.

4:45 p.m.: From @MaryKayCabot: "#Browns S. Brown said during wk: "You'll be in great coverage and he'lll still make plays.'' That's what happened on the 2 TDs he gave up."

4:44 p.m.: From Associated Press' Tom Withers (@twithersAP): "#Browns finally got some pressure and Manning makes 'em pay anyway."

From @dmansworldpd: "fairly soon, broncos will be going into "stay healthy'' mode."

Broncos 14, Browns 3, 12:40 left in second quarter

4:42 p.m.: On the 15th play of the drive, Manning in shotgun delivers perfectly to Eric Decker in the back line against Sheldon Brown. Perfect coverage for the second time goes for naught for Brown.

Manning is 12 for 14 for 120 yards and two TDs.

4:39 p.m.: Backed up to the Browns 39, Manning needs three plays to get the Broncos back in the red zone, capped by a solid throw to Decker as Manning was being hit in the pocket on a third-and-4.

After Moreno gets a yard on first down at the Browns 11, Manning stutter-steps as he throws just long for Thomas at the back of the end zone against Eric Hagg. Broncos call first timeout.

broncos-thmas-td-brns-2012-ap.jpg View full size A perfectly-thrown ball by Peyton Manning is brought in by Demaryius Thomas against tight coverage by Sheldon Brown in the first quarter Sunday.  

End of first quarter, Broncos 7, Browns 3

4:33 p.m.: Another Dawson touchback, and the Broncos' second drive starts just like the first, with Moreno gaining eight yards on a draw. Late pass from Manning is caught by Thomas in a duel with Sheldon Brown for five yards. Really good coverage twice now by Brown, but to no avail.

Eric Decker gets nine yards on a slant against Joe Haden and Moreno converts the first down to the 47. Browns look totally helpless against Manning.

Tight end Joel Dreesen gets three yards on a quick first-down out, then Manning -- in shotgun -- finds Thomas on the left side for five to the 45. Third-and-2 and Manning lures Jabaal Sheard across the line for the offside and the first down.

Then again, Sheard had to be excited to have a third-down chance against this offense.

From the 40, Moreno gets four yards over left guard. Browns have little chance to rush Manning, as he throws so quickly and on rhythm. Decker over the middle for five yards to the 31, and Moreno coverts again for a first down to the 29. Former San Diego State RB Hillman speeds over left guard for eight, but left guard Zane Beadles is called for holding.

Quarter ends.

4:26 p.m.: From @dmansworldpd: "#browns O-line gets a ton of credit for being good, but repeatedly commits penalties that severely crimp drives."

4:24 p.m.: After Cincinnati beats the Steelers and takes the final AFC wild-card spot (the Colts have the other), Week 17 will be just for pride in Pittsburgh.

From @MaryKayCabot: "#Bengals in, #Steelers out of playoffs. Next week's game in Pittsburgh is meaningless for #Browns and #Steelers"

Broncos 7, Browns 3, 4:35 left in first quarter

4:23 p.m.: With Chris Ogbonnaya and Trent Richardson both in the backfield -- umm, that's opening the playbook? -- a short flare to Ogbonnaya gets a yard on first down. Weeden gets a first down with a nice short slant to Greg Little to the 39 of the Browns.

Procedure penalty backs Browns up five, but Richardson powers over the center for eight yards on first down. Richardson again gets seven yards for another first down, spinning to keep the Broncos defenders away from stripping the ball.

Fastball by Weeden is snared by Ben Watson for 13 yards to the Broncos 38. The Browns QB appears inspired so far. Richardson gets three on first down over left guard. On second-and-7, Weeden rolls right -- where was that last week? -- and easily finds Watson for 15 yards to the Denver 20.

Now in the red zone, Richardson spins and manages two yards at left tackle. Brad Smelley in as a wingback and gets the throw from Weeden for three yards to the Denver 15. Welcome to the NFL, kid.

Smelley out, Watson back in. Weeden scrambles right and finds Josh Gordon at the 10, who runs over Tracy Porter and gets the first down at the 8.

First down pass goes incomplete on the three-step drop -- perhaps a sign that Weeden is so much more comfortable on deeper drops and rollouts. Browns flagged five yards for procedure penalty. From the 13, Richardson gets four yards on a pitch sweep to the left.

On third-and-goal from the 9, Josh Cooper can't hold on at the 10 on a play that was going nowhere. No throw to the end zone.

Phil Dawson's 27-yard field goal is good.

4:11 p.m.: Sure, NFL teams always, always defer if they win the opening coin toss. But you're 5-9 and the other guy has Peyton Manning and a long winning streak.

Why, exactly, is deferring such a great idea? Other than "trusting your defense, etc."

Broncos 7, Browns 0, 12:10 left in first quarter

4:10 p.m.: After a Phil Dawson touchback, Manning starts at the 20. Knowshon Moreno, who has revitalized the Broncos' running game, gets eight up the middle before Manning converts to Brandon Stokley for a first down at the 33.

No pass rush on Manning isn't a good thing, as he easily finds Demaryius Thomas for 23 yards to the Browns 43. Moreno gets three yards to the 40 as Manning is in full hurry-up no-huddle mode. Thomas toe taps for a first down at the 28 on the Browns sideline.

Ronnie Hillman, a rookie running back, can't catch Manning's pass on first down, but gains six over left guard on second down. Manning loops the ball to Thomas for the touchdown with Sheldon Brown having tight coverage. Perfect pass, even if it was 5 mph slower than in his prime.

4:03 p.m.: Browns win the toss -- extending a hot streak before the kickoff -- and defer to the second half. Broncos get the ball first.

Peyton Manning can get unlimbered quickly. And this is a good idea because??

manning-clap-brncs-2012-ap.jpg View full size "A short-handed secondary for a team that (reportedly) has a lame-duck coach? Hmmm... sounds like fun."  

3:53 p.m.: It's a week for startling individual performances. In addition to Calvin Johnson of the Lions setting a new single-season receiving record against Atlanta on Saturday, Dez Bryant of the Cowboys is closing in on a 200-yard day in a home game against New Orleans and Kansas City's Jamaal Charles has rushed for more than 200 yards against Indianapolis.

3:41 p.m.: From Jim Donovan on WMMS on what needs to happen for a Browns' victory ... "This isn't going to be a low-scoring game. You're going to need to let it rip ... maybe dig into the bag of tricks for some of the plays we saw two weeks ago."

3:36 p.m.: Winter conditions for the Broncos and Browns? Hardly. A half-hour before the game, it's 54 degrees with partly cloudy skies, 15 to 27 mph winds.

With Phil Dawson's increased length as his career matures, it will be interesting to see how far his leg will carry in the mile-high air.

3:30 p.m.: The Browns' inactives list doesn't contain any surprises: WR Mohamed Massaquoi, RB Brandon Jackson, DB Tashaun Gipson, LB Adrian Moten, DL Ishmaa'ily Kitchen, OL Jerrod Shaw and TE Jordan Cameron.

For Denver, it's G Chris Kuper, DT Sealver Siliga, RB Chris Gronkowski, TE Julius Thomas, QB Caleb Hanie, WR Andre Caldwell, FS Quinton Carter.

Usama Young will take T.J. Ward's spot at strong safety, with Eric Hagg starting at the free safety position.


 

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