Johnny Manziel Comments on Debut Loss vs. Bengals

The Cleveland Browns turned to rookie quarterback Johnny Manziel as the starter in Week 15 against the Cincinnati Bengals, but the player affectionately known as Johnny Football struggled mightily in his first career start.   

Manziel went 10-of-18 through the air for 80 yards, zero touchdowns and two interceptions, and struggled on the ground as well, only rushing for 13 yards on five carries in a 30-0 blowout loss.

David Richard/Associated Press

After the game, Manziel spoke to the media about his performance, via Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram and Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer:

Browns head coach Mike Pettine also commented on Manziel’s play:

Following the game, Chris B. Brown of Smart Football stated the obvious:

Cleveland needed a victory Sunday to stay in contention in the AFC North, but a loss sends a team in limbo down the playoff standings. The Browns are now 7-7 on the season.

Manziel and Cleveland will square off against the Carolina Panthers in Week 16 in a favorable matchup that should be easier to handle for the rookie. The Browns finish the season on the road against the division-rival Ravens.