Unsolicited Observations: Johnny Manziel’s First Game In the Books, Cleveland Browns Lose Preseason Opener to Detroit Lions

Aug 9, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions running back Joique Bell (35) runs the ball away from Cleveland Browns linebacker Karlos Dansby (56) during the first quarter at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

It’s been said the running game is going to be a significant part of the offense–and Ben Tate showed why. Tate looked like a stud, rushing for 25 yards on six carries. He did fumble (recovered by the Browns), but overall, Dawg Pound Nation has to like what it saw from Tate.

Rookie Terrance West looked like an NFL newbie. He was advertised as a one-cut-and-run type back, but seemed to dance a little too much in his preseason debut. West rushed 10 times for 22 yards–an unspectacular 2.2 yards per carry average.

• The pass rush left me wanting more. Barkevious Mingo, Dez Bryant and Armonty Bryant showed why they can be a headache for quarterbacks this fall.

• The linebackers were also noticeable. Karlos Dansby almost came up with an interception, while Craig Robertson helped stop the run at the line, while also breaking up a pass.