NFL: Brian Hoyer to start over Johnny Manziel for Browns against Colts
Friday 5 December 2014 07:32, UK
Johnny Manziel will have to wait to take over as starting quarterback for the Cleveland Browns with Brian Hoyer keeping his job under center against the Indianapolis Colts.
Much-hyped rookie Manziel finally got his chance last Sunday when Browns coach Mike Pettine pulled struggling Hoyer out of their clash with the Buffalo Bills.
Manziel, who had previously only thrown one incompletion in the NFL, rushed for a 10-yard touchdown and completed five of his eight passes for 63 yards as Cleveland fell to a 26-10 defeat in a game that had earlier seen Hoyer throw two interceptions.
Hoyer's form has tailed off badly over the last month but Pettine is determined to stick with him as the Browns (7-5) cling on to hopes of a place in the playoffs.
"After thorough evaluation and talking to the staff, we feel Brian gives us the best opportunity to win on Sunday," Pettine said.
"This is a football decision and those are always going to be based on what we think is best for our team.
"Brian has led our team to a 7-5 record. I’m confident that we can get the entire offense playing at the level needed to accomplish the goals we set at the beginning of the season. Those goals are still very much attainable."
