Packers vs. Browns: 5 Moments That Have Cleveland Fans Excited for 2011

Peyton Hillis said it best,"For the first time out, I thought we did pretty well."

The Cleveland Browns' first-team offense scored two touchdowns in three possessions, while the defense made the play of the game, a fumble returned 43 yards for a touchdown.

Minus a few mental mistakes (early timeout taken, Watson's false start, neutral-zone infractions), you have to be impressed with what the Browns were able to accomplish against the Super Bowl Champions.

Even though it was only the first preseason game, there were quite a few moments that have Cleveland fans excited for their 2011 Browns season.

5. Linebacker Titus Brown's Fumble Return

It was undrafted linebacker Brian Smith (Notre Dame) who was able to get the strip-sack on Green Bay's third-string quarterback, Graham Harrell.

With the ball bobbling backwards, linebacker Titus Brown was able to pick it up off the ground and stumble in for a 43-yard touchdown.

At first it was scary watching Brown pick up the erratically-bouncing ball. But once the ball was secure, there was nothing but green grass between he and the end zone.

I understand it was the third quarter, it was Green Bay's backups playing and it is the preseason.

But to see that the Browns' defense could make a big play down the stretch to take the lead was very reassuring.

4. McCoy-Watson Downfield Connection

Colt McCoy and Ben Watson connected on two big pass plays during the first-team offense's third possession Saturday night.

The first completion came on a 19-yard gain when Watson ran a post route toward the sideline. McCoy threw a perfect pass that put the Browns into Packers' territory.

On the very next play, Watson—who was lined up against a linebacker—ran a seam route down the middle of the field. McCoy then put the ball in the only spot where Watson could get it, and no defensive back could make a play.

The completion went for 37 yards and put the Browns in the red zone for the first time of the night.

If Watson can keep getting favorable matchups against slower linebackers or small defensive backs, he and McCoy could form the best QB-TE tandem in the AFC North. The McCoy-Watson connection will become crucial on third downs and during the fourth quarter.

3. Jayme Mitchell's Sack of Matt Flynn

With Green Bay's first-team offense only playing two possessions, backup QB Matt Flynn was able to see some playing time against the Browns' No. 1 defense.

Flynn was playing solidly until he was sacked for a five-yard loss on third down, which ended up killing their drive. Left defensive end Jayme Mitchell was credited with the sack, while rookie DE Jabaal Sheard (who was having trouble going up against Pro Bowl LT Chad Clifton) was there at the end to put a hit on the QB as Mitchell dragged him to the ground.

The defensive line looked good at times and not so good at others. Watching the game, you're able to witness the talent of the defensive line. 

To be honest, the D-line is a work in progress, and it's going to take a while for the players to gel and find their roles along the defensive line. 

2. Peyton Hillis' TD Run

Hillis only had five carries for a grand total of 16 yards, but he did get into the end zone on a three-yard scamper set up by the McCoy-Watson pass for 37 yards.

It was a tough run along the right side of the offensive line. Rookie fullback Owen Marecic probably had his best block of the night when he sealed off the linebacker, which allowed Hillis to cut back inside behind Pashos, Lavauo and Mack for the score.

By his owns standards, Hillis most likely was not too happy with his individual performance, but on the bright side, at least he did not put the ball on the ground. Fumbling is a major concern for Hillis heading into this season, and his ability to hold on to the football will be crucial for the Browns this upcoming season.

1. McCoy-Cribbs TD

It was the pass Cleveland fans were hoping to see; a beautifully-thrown 27-yard pass from McCoy to Cribbs for a touchdown on the Browns' first offensive possession.

Cribbs was lined up wide on the right side of the formation and ran up the sideline against cornerback Pat Lee (playing for starting CB Charles Woodson). McCoy then placed the ball between Cribbs and the sideline, the only place where the corner could not make a play on the ball.

Hopefully we will see these two develop chemistry throughout the season. McCoy’s short, accurate throws and Cribbs' ability to run after the catch will become a valuable component to the new offense.

And with this latest touchdown pass, these two are showing they can connect on longer throws downfield, which will keep opposing cornerbacks honest and playing less press coverage.