Week 2 NFL Preview: Browns @ Broncos

Probably one of the most anticipated games of the early year will take place this Sunday in Denver.

Well, it might not be anticipated but it will surely be a game that might be able to demonstrate if the Browns have what it takes to play competitively in the NFL. This will be the 2nd game under new head coach Eric Mangini and there is still a lot to fix and change so the Browns have the slightest of slights to win this game.

One of the biggest factors for the Browns this sunday will be the play of quarterback Brady Quinn. Everyone saw a shaky and less than average quarterback take the field this past Sunday against the Vikings and already people are talking about bringing in Derek Anderson.

Let's not jump the gun just yet because the Broncos aren't the Minnesota Vikings and the Broncos are practically in the rebuilding mode. For Quinn and the Browns offense to be successful, they need a steady balance of the run setting up the pass.

I saw a very conservative approach to the offensive game last Sunday and that needs to change because Edwards isn't going to contribute if you never look for him. The "wildcat" formation is fine and dandy to use but please stop thinking it will be the best kept secret in the NFL when obviously it is not.

Use Jamal Lewis out of the backfield, especially on passing plays. James Davis is going to have to contribute some way in this game for him to get more playing time from Mangini and I think he will. Mike Furry is your best friend on 3rd downs, so go to him heavy and often.

The Broncos escaped the Bengals because of a little tipped pass miracle play to Brandon Stokley. This isn't a very good Broncos team right now but then again this isn't a very good Browns team right now.

I'm expecting a moderately low scoring game because I don't think either offense will be able to capitalize on bad defenses. The Broncos are still searching for their running game and the defense is still a long ways away from being consistent.

If the Browns can manage to score more than 7 points on the Broncos, they should be in a pretty good situation to win the game. But if the Browns offense struggles all game; then you better watch out because the Browns will be in for a long season and Brady Quinn and his white horse won't be welcomed back to Cleveland after the plane ride.