The preseason momentum building for the Browns as a sleeper team took a major hit on Sunday.
Cleveland fell to the Bengals 27-17 at home in a game that reminded everyone that the Browns still have a young quarterback too. And new schemes on both sides of the ball.
After Bengals rookie quarterback Andy Dalton was hurt, Bruce Gradkowski caught the Browns defense napping on a 41-yard pass to A.J. Green late in the fourth quarter.
The Browns trailed 20-17 with plenty of time to tie the game, but Colt McCoy couldn’t get the job done. On fourth down, he wound up throwing to his center. That’s pretty much the opposite of whatever they call “poise” at quarterback.
Cleveland’s schedule sets up well to post a surprising record this year, but not if they can’t win at home when they are favored.
Heck, Cincinnati’s schedule sets up well too. Vive le Bruce Gradkowski.
(Unless the Bengals can somehow convince Carson Palmer to show up now.)
