Johnny Manziel will get to play his first game start with the Cleveland Browns against the Cincinnati Bengals. He said that he is very appreciative of the chance to start for the Browns.

Manziel replaces quarterback Brian Hoyer who has started the last four games of the Browns, losing three out of those previous games after a 6-3 start to the season.

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"This decision is really not about Brian Hoyer or Johnny Manziel, it is about the Cleveland Browns," Browns coach Mike Pettine said in a statement. "We are always going to make decisions that we feel are in the best interest of the team".

Pettine goes on to say that Hoyer has done everything the team has asked of him and that he has done so as a true professional. He also adds that Johnny has worked very hard to earn this opportunity and it will be important for every member of the offense to elevate their play.

Manziel has the opportunity to take the Browns' reins and direct the team towards the playoffs. The chances of the team are slowly dimming with the stumbling results of their past games.

"I'm very appreciative of the opportunity that Coach Pettine and the coaching staff have given me to be the starter on Sunday," Manziel said in the email. "I've tried to spend my entire season learning what it takes to become a pro and it's been great to watch Brian because he knows what it takes.

The question now though, is whether or not the Browns will regret the decision of starting Manziel sooner.

Manziel will need to lead the Browns to three straight wins, starting with the Sunday game against the Bengals. The three wins will only give them a short though at a playoff position in the AFC.

However, on paper, it seems that Manziel is the person who can do it. He is a former Heisman Trophy winner who operates best under the spotlight.

Tagscleveland browns, Cincinnati Bengals, johnny manziel