New Season for a New Writer

Editor's Note: Avon Lake Patch welcomes new blogger Matt Ashton. Matt will be blogging on the Cleveland Browns. Feel free to respond to Matt's comments and your own thoughts on the Browns' upcoming season.

After what seems like forever, professional football season is upon us once again. The lockout was both under and over analyzed. What I mean is that we heard all the obnoxious details, but also don’t realize the effect it has on the learning curve and conditioning of these players. So, for Saturday night's game, I expect our Cleveland Browns to come out with intensity and fight, but not as sharp as some may expect. 

So the question is, what should fans look for from the Browns? For me, I'd hope that Usama Young looks strong at the free safety position. He was a good backup for New Orleans in the past, now as a starter one has to hope he can hold his own. The Packers pass attack should be a good test for the kid, and whether he is an answer as a starter, or if Mike Adams will once again have to take over that place.

Another question mark is the defensive line. Seems like that’s an issue every year, doesn’t it? This year, I think the defensive tackle position is secure, but the defensive ends are questionable, with Jabaal Sheard, the second round pick, and the under the radar Jayme Mitchell. Watch to see if either steps up as a great pass rusher, and if any of the second or third stringers step it up in the second quarter and beyond.

Finally, look for the quarterback's (especially Colt McCoy's) timing with the receivers and tight ends. That is what the West Coast system that Mike Holmgren and Pat Shurmer are installing is all about. If I can say on Sunday that they look to gel well together, we could be looking at a fun season. If there is a lack of communication and timing, well, look out for a very long season. 

*Want more Browns? Visit the Browns training camp in the upcoming week. Read by Matt Pawlikowski.