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2008 Cleveland Browns season

60th season in franchise history


60th season in franchise history

FieldValue
year2008
teamCleveland Browns
ownerRandy Lerner
coachRomeo Crennel
general managerPhil Savage
stadiumCleveland Browns Stadium
record4–12
division_place4th AFC North
playoffs*Did not qualify*
uniformImage:AFCN-Uniform-CLE07-08.PNG
pro bowlersLS Ryan Pontbriand
DT Shaun Rogers
LT Joe Thomas
shortnavlinkBrowns seasons

DT Shaun Rogers LT Joe Thomas

The 2008 Cleveland Browns season was the team's 60th season as a professional sports franchise and its 56th season as a member of the National Football League (NFL). The Browns finished with a 4–12 record and failed to qualify for the playoffs. The season marked Romeo Crennel's fourth (and what would be final) year as head coach of the Browns. Cleveland played all of their home games at Cleveland Browns Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. To end the 2008 season, the Browns failed to score an offensive touchdown for 24 consecutive quarters and were shut out in their final two games, the last time a team would be shut out in back-to-back games until the Carolina Panthers were shut out in their final two games 15 years later. The Cleveland Browns failed to make the playoffs for the sixth consecutive season.

Offseason

Coaching staff changes

On January 7, the Browns signed offensive coordinator Rob Chudzinski to a two-year contract extension, effectively allowing the coach to remain in Cleveland through the 2011 season. Chudzinski declined an opportunity to interview for the vacant head coach position of the Baltimore Ravens to remain in Cleveland.

On January 11, it was announced by Crennel that the team had fired defensive coordinator Todd Grantham, and that a replacement would be announced soon. Grantham's firing comes just months after signing a two-year contract extension. The next day, it was announced that Mel Tucker, defensive backs coach for the Browns, was given the job. After spending three years on the Browns defensive coaching staff, Cory Undlin was promoted to defensive backs coach to replace Tucker.{{cite web|author=Press release|date=January 12, 2008|title=Undlin named defensive backs coach

On January 29, the team announced that it had re-signed head coach Romeo Crennel to a two-year contract extension. General manager Phil Savage stated that Crennel did not ask for an extension, but rather that the team felt that it was the proper thing to do for the head coach.

Free agents

Pos.PlayerTagSignedTeamContract
LBKeith AdamsUFA
FBCharles AliERFAMarch 13Browns1 year
QBDerek AndersonRFAFebruary 29Browns3 years
DBGary BaxterUFAMarch 13Browns1 year
WRTim CarterUFAMay 22Texans1 year
DBRicardo ColcloughUFAMarch 1Panthers2 years
OLNat DorseyUFA
DLSimon FraserRFAMarch 7Falcons
OLLennie FriedmanUFAMarch 12Browns1 year
LBKris GriffinRFAMarch 26Browns1 year
DEBobby HamiltonUFA
CBDaven HollyRFAFebruary 28Brownsurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080303042116/http://www.clevelandbrowns.com/article.php?id=8242date=March 3, 2008 }}
DEJustin HuntUFA
DTEthan KelleyUFA
RBJamal LewisUFAFebruary 21Browns3 years
GSeth McKinneyUFAMarch 28Browns1 year
DLAlvin SmithERFA
LBMatt StewartUFAApril 18Cardinals1 year
LBChaun ThompsonUFAMarch 14Texans2 years
NTTed WashingtonUFA
UFA: Unrestricted free agent; RFA: Restricted free agent; ERFA: Exclusive rights free agent

Signings

Pos.PlayerSignedContractAcquired
CBTerry CousinMay 232 yearsfree agent
CRex HadnotMarch 102 yearsfree agent
LBShantee OrrMarch 211 yearfree agent
DEShaun RogersMarch 16 yearstrade with Lions
WRurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080304203053/http://www.nfl.com/nflnetwork/story?id=09000d5d806fa085&template=with-video&confirm=truedate=March 4, 2008 }}March 17 yearsfree agent
DECorey WilliamsFebruary 296 yearstrade with Packers

Releases

Pos.PlayerTagSignedTeamContract
Surl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080820010730/http://www.clevelandbrowns.com/article.php?id=8669date=August 20, 2008 }}UFA
Curl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080614010901/http://www.clevelandbrowns.com/article.php?id=8513date=June 14, 2008}}UFA
DEJustin HuntUFA
DEOrpheus RoyeUFASteelers
CBurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080520120533/http://www.clevelandbrowns.com/article.php?id=8446date=May 20, 2008 }}UFA

2008 NFL draft

The Browns did not have a selection in the first three rounds.

RoundPickNamePositionCollege
45 (104)Beau BellLinebackerUNLV
411 (111)Martin RuckerTight endMissouri
624 (190)Ahtyba RubinDefensive tackleIowa State
625 (191)Paul HubbardWide receiverWisconsin
725 (231)Alex HallDefensive endSt. Augustine's

Coaching staff

Cleveland Browns 2008 coaching staff

Final roster

  • Richard Bartel

  • Bruce Gradkowski

  • Charles Ali FB

  • Jerome Harrison

  • Jamal Lewis

  • Allen Patrick

  • Lawrence Vickers FB

  • Josh Cribbs KR/PR

  • Braylon Edwards

  • Paul Hubbard

  • Donté Stallworth

  • Syndric Steptoe

  • Brad Cieslak

  • Darnell Dinkins

  • John Madsen

  • Martin Rucker

  • Kellen Winslow II

  • Hank Fraley C

  • Rex Hadnot G

  • Seth McKinney C/G

  • Kevin Shaffer T

  • Isaac Sowells G/T

  • Eric Steinbach G

  • Joe Thomas T

  • Scott Young G

  • Louis Leonard DE

  • Shaun Rogers NT

  • Ahtyba Rubin NT

  • Shaun Smith DE

  • Santonio Thomas DE

  • Corey Williams DE

  • Titus Brown ILB

  • Andra Davis ILB

  • Kris Griffin OLB

  • Alex Hall OLB

  • D'Qwell Jackson ILB

  • Willie McGinest OLB

  • Shantee Orr OLB

  • Leon Williams ILB

  • Kamerion Wimbley OLB

  • Hamza Abdullah SS

  • Mike Adams FS/SS

  • Terry Cousin CB

  • Travis Daniels CB

  • Sean Jones SS

  • Gerard Lawson CB

  • Brandon McDonald CB

  • Brodney Pool FS

  • Nick Sorensen SS

  • Eric Wright CB

  • Phil Dawson K

  • Ryan Pontbriand LS

  • Dave Zastudil P

  • Derek Anderson QB (IR) [[File:Injury icon.svg|7px]]

  • Beau Bell LB (IR) [[File:Injury icon.svg|7px]]

  • Ken Dorsey QB (IR) [[File:Injury icon.svg|7px]]

  • Lennie Friedman C/G (IR) [[File:Injury icon.svg|7px]]

  • Steve Heiden TE (IR) [[File:Injury icon.svg|7px]]

  • Daven Holly CB (IR) [[File:Injury icon.svg|7px]]

  • Joe Jurevicius WR (PUP) [[File:Injury icon.svg|7px]]

  • Antwan Peek LB (IR) [[File:Injury icon.svg|7px]]

  • Chase Pittman DE (IR) [[File:Injury icon.svg|7px]]

  • Brady Quinn QB (IR) [[File:Injury icon.svg|7px]]

  • Robaire Smith DE (IR) [[File:Injury icon.svg|7px]]

  • Ryan Tucker G/T (IR) [[File:Injury icon.svg|7px]]

  • Jason Wright RB (IR) [[File:Injury icon.svg|7px]]

  • Eric Young G (NF-Inj.) [[File:Injury icon.svg|7px]]

  • Jed Collins FB

  • Mike Dragosavich P

  • Dustin Fry C

  • David Holloway LB

  • Lance Leggett WR

  • Melila Purcell DE

  • Kurt Quarterman G

  • Steve Sanders WR

Preseason

Schedule

Cleveland Brownsyear=2008border=2}}"WeekCleveland Brownsyear=2008border=2}}"DateCleveland Brownsyear=2008border=2}}"OpponentCleveland Brownsyear=2008border=2}}"ResultCleveland Brownsyear=2008border=2}}"RecordCleveland Brownsyear=2008border=2}}"VenueCleveland Brownsyear=2008border=2}}"TVCleveland Brownsyear=2008border=2}}"Recap1234
August 7[New York Jets](2008-new-york-jets-season)**L** 20–240–1Cleveland Browns StadiumIan Eagle, Greg Buttle, Sam Ryan/Jim Donovan, Bernie Kosar, Dave Chudowsky[Recap](http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter?game_id=29787&season=2008&displayPage=tab_gamecenter)
August 18at [New York Giants](2008-new-york-giants-season)**L** 34–370–2Giants StadiumMike Tirico, Ron Jaworski, Tony Kornheiser, Suzy Kolber[Recap](http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter?game_id=29815&season=2008&displayPage=tab_gamecenter)
August 23at [Detroit Lions](2008-detroit-lions-season)**L** 6–260–3Ford FieldJim Donovan, Bernie Kosar, Dave Chudowsky/Gus Johnson, Desmond Howard, Matt Shepard, Charlie Sanders[Recap](http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter?game_id=29822&season=2008&displayPage=tab_gamecenter)
August 28[Chicago Bears](2008-chicago-bears-season)**L** 10–160–4Cleveland Browns StadiumDave Barnett, Erik Kramer, Lou Canellis/Jim Donovan, Bernie Kosar, Dave Chudowsky[Recap](http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter?game_id=29839&season=2008&displayPage=tab_gamecenter)

Regular season

Schedule

Cleveland Brownsyear=2008border=2}}"WeekCleveland Brownsyear=2008border=2}}"DateCleveland Brownsyear=2008border=2}}"OpponentCleveland Brownsyear=2008border=2}}"ResultCleveland Brownsyear=2008border=2}}"RecordCleveland Brownsyear=2008border=2}}"VenueCleveland Brownsyear=2008border=2}}"Recap1234567891011121314151617
September 7[Dallas Cowboys](2008-dallas-cowboys-season)**L** 10–280–1Cleveland Browns Stadium[Recap](https://www.nfl.com/games/cowboys-at-browns-2008-reg-1)
September 14**[Pittsburgh Steelers](2008-pittsburgh-steelers-season)****L** 6–100–2Cleveland Browns Stadium[Recap](https://www.nfl.com/games/steelers-at-browns-2008-reg-2)
September 21at **[Baltimore Ravens](2008-baltimore-ravens-season)****L** 10–280–3M&T Bank Stadium[Recap](https://www.nfl.com/games/browns-at-ravens-2008-reg-3)
September 28at **[Cincinnati Bengals](2008-cincinnati-bengals-season)****W** 20–121–3Paul Brown Stadium[Recap](https://www.nfl.com/games/browns-at-bengals-2008-reg-4)
*Bye*
October 13[New York Giants](2008-new-york-giants-season)**W** 35–142–3Cleveland Browns Stadium[ Recap](https://www.nfl.com/games/giants-at-browns-2008-reg-6)
October 19at [Washington Redskins](2008-washington-redskins-season)**L** 11–142–4FedEx Field[Recap](https://www.nfl.com/games/browns-at-redskins-2008-reg-7)
October 26at [Jacksonville Jaguars](2008-jacksonville-jaguars-season)**W** 23–173–4Alltel Stadium[Recap](https://www.nfl.com/games/browns-at-jaguars-2008-reg-8)
November 2**[Baltimore Ravens](2008-baltimore-ravens-season)****L** 27–373–5Cleveland Browns Stadium[Recap](https://www.nfl.com/games/ravens-at-browns-2008-reg-9)
November 6[Denver Broncos](2008-denver-broncos-season)**L** 30–343–6Cleveland Browns Stadium[Recap](https://www.nfl.com/games/broncos-at-browns-2008-reg-10)
November 17at [Buffalo Bills](2008-buffalo-bills-season)**W** 29–274–6Ralph Wilson Stadium[Recap](https://www.nfl.com/games/browns-at-bills-2008-reg-11)
November 23[Houston Texans](2008-houston-texans-season)**L** 6–164–7Cleveland Browns Stadium[Recap](https://www.nfl.com/games/texans-at-browns-2008-reg-12)
November 30[Indianapolis Colts](2008-indianapolis-colts-season)**L** 6–104–8Cleveland Browns Stadium[Recap](https://www.nfl.com/games/colts-at-browns-2008-reg-13)
December 7at [Tennessee Titans](2008-tennessee-titans-season)**L** 9–284–9LP Field[Recap](https://www.nfl.com/games/browns-at-titans-2008-reg-14)
December 15at [Philadelphia Eagles](2008-philadelphia-eagles-season)**L** 10–304–10Lincoln Financial Field[Recap](https://www.nfl.com/games/browns-at-eagles-2008-reg-15)
December 21**[Cincinnati Bengals](2008-cincinnati-bengals-season)****L** 0–144–11Cleveland Browns Stadium[Recap](https://www.nfl.com/games/bengals-at-browns-2008-reg-16)
December 28at **[Pittsburgh Steelers](2008-pittsburgh-steelers-season)****L** 0–314–12Heinz Field[Recap](https://www.nfl.com/games/browns-at-steelers-2008-reg-17)

Note: Intra-divisional opponents are in bold text.

Standings

Regular season week-by-week results

Week 1: vs. Dallas Cowboys

First quarter

  • DAL – Marion Barber III 1-yard run (Nick Folk kick), 6:40. ''Cowboys 7–0. '''Drive: 10 plays, 80 yards, 5:15.''''' Second quarter
  • CLE – Kellen Winslow II 2-yard pass from Derek Anderson (Phil Dawson kick), 12:43. ''Tied 7–7. '''Drive: 16 plays, 79 yards, 8:57.'''''
  • DAL – Terrell Owens 35-yard pass from Tony Romo (Nick Folk kick), 9:48. ''Cowboys 14–7. '''Drive: 4 plays, 69 yards, 2:55.'''''
  • DAL – Marion Barber III 1-yard run (Nick Folk kick), 0:26. ''Cowboys 21–7. '''Drive: 10 plays, 53 yards, 5:39.''''' Third quarter
  • DAL – Felix Jones 11-yard run (Nick Folk kick), 6:24. ''Cowboys 28–7. '''Drive: 10 plays, 86 yards, 4:53.''''' Fourth quarter
  • CLE – Phil Dawson 34-yard field goal, 10:13. ''Cowboys 28–10. '''Drive: 10 plays, 92 yards, 5:25.''''' Top passers
  • DAL – Tony Romo – 24/32, 320 yards, TD, INT
  • CLE – Derek Anderson – 11/24, 114 yards, TD Top rushers
  • DAL – Marion Barber III – 16 rushes, 80 yards, 2 TD
  • CLE – Jamal Lewis – 13 rushes, 62 yards Top receivers
  • DAL – Jason Witten – 6 receptions, 96 yards
  • CLE – Kellen Winslow II – 5 receptions, 47 yards, TD The Browns began their 2008 campaign at home against the defending NFC East champion Dallas Cowboys. In the first quarter, Cleveland trailed early as Cowboys RB Marion Barber got a 1-yard TD run. In the second quarter, the Browns responded with QB Derek Anderson completing a 2-yard TD pass to TE Kellen Winslow. Dallas would respond with QB Tony Romo completing a 35-yard TD pass to WR Terrell Owens, along with another 1-yard TD run from Barber. In the third quarter, Cleveland's defensive struggles continued as RB Felix Jones got an 11-yard TD run. In the fourth quarter, the Browns tried to rally, yet all they could come up with was a 34-yard field goal from kicker Phil Dawson.

With the loss, Cleveland began its season at 0–1.

Week 2: vs. Pittsburgh Steelers

First quarter

  • No scoring plays Second quarter
  • PIT – Hines Ward 11-yard pass from Ben Roethlisberger (Jeff Reed kick), 6:29. ''Steelers 7–0. '''Drive: 12 plays, 77 yards, 6:29.''''' Third quarter
  • PIT – Jeff Reed 48-yard field goal, 7:58. ''Steelers 10–0. '''Drive: 5 plays, 54 yards, 2:18.'''''
  • CLE – Phil Dawson 31-yard field goal, 1:25. ''Steelers 10–3. '''Drive: 12 plays, 57 yards, 6:33.''''' Fourth quarter
  • CLE – Phil Dawson 38-yard field goal, 3:21. ''Steelers 10–6. '''Drive: 14 plays, 60 yards, 7:29.''''' Top passers
  • PIT – Ben Roethlisberger – 13/20, 179 yards, TD
  • CLE – Derek Anderson – 18/32, 166 yards, 2 INT Top rushers
  • PIT – Willie Parker – 28 rushes, 105 yards
  • CLE – Jamal Lewis – 19 rushes, 38 yards Top receivers
  • PIT – Santonio Holmes – 5 receptions, 94 yards
  • CLE – Kellen Winslow II – 7 receptions, 55 yards Hoping to rebound from their disappointing home loss to the Cowboys, the Browns stayed at home for the first of five primetime games with a Week 2 AFC North duel against their hated rival, the Pittsburgh Steelers, in very high winds due to the remnants of Hurricane Ike. After a scoreless first quarter, Cleveland trailed as Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger completed an 11-yard TD pass to WR Hines Ward. In the third quarter, Pittsburgh increased its lead with kicker Jeff Reed getting a 48-yard field goal. Afterwards, the Browns got on the board with kicker Phil Dawson getting a 31-yard field goal. In the fourth quarter, Cleveland tried to rally, but the only thing that came out of it was Dawson's 38-yard field goal.

With their 10th-straight loss to Pittsburgh, the Browns fell to 0–2.

This would be the Browns' last appearance on Sunday Night Football until 2019.

Week 3: at Baltimore Ravens

First quarter

  • No scoring plays Second quarter
  • CLE – Jerome Harrison 19-yard pass from Derek Anderson (Phil Dawson kick), 14:52. ''Browns 7–0. '''Drive: 7 plays, 52 yards, 3:14.'''''
  • BAL – Willis McGahee 5-yard run (Matt Stover kick), 6:40. ''Tied 7–7. '''Drive: 7 plays, 43 yards, 4:15.'''''
  • CLE – Phil Dawson 38-yard field goal, 1:04. ''Browns 10–7. '''Drive: 13 plays, 55 yards, 5:36.''''' Third quarter
  • BAL – Le'Ron McClain 1-yard run (Matt Stover kick), 11:13. ''Ravens 14–10. '''Drive: 4 plays, 12 yards, 2:17.'''''
  • BAL – Ed Reed 32-yard interception return (Matt Stover kick), 10:23. Ravens 21–10.
  • BAL – Le'Ron McClain 1-yard run (Matt Stover kick), 4:49. ''Ravens 28–10. '''Drive: 5 plays, 35 yards, 3:08.''''' Fourth quarter
  • No scoring plays Top passers
  • CLE – Derek Anderson – 14/37, 125 yards, TD, 3 INT
  • BAL – Joe Flacco – 13/19, 129 yards, 2 INT Top rushers
  • CLE – Jamal Lewis – 12 rushes, 56 yards
  • BAL – Le'Ron McClain – 17 rushes, 66 yards, 2 TD Top receivers
  • CLE – Braylon Edwards – 3 receptions, 27 yards
  • BAL – Derrick Mason – 4 receptions, 42 yards Trying to snap their two-game losing streak, the Browns flew to M&T Bank Stadium for a Week 3 AFC North duel with the Baltimore Ravens. After a scoreless first quarter, Cleveland got on the board with QB Derek Anderson completing a 19-yard TD pass to RB Jerome Harrison. The Ravens would respond with RB Willis McGahee getting a yard TD run. The Browns would close out the half with kicker Phil Dawson hitting a 38-yard field goal.

In the third quarter, Baltimore took control as RB Le'Ron McClain scored on a 1-yard TD run, safety Ed Reed returned an interception 32 yards for a touchdown, and McClain getting another 1-yard TD run.

With the loss, the Browns fell to 0–3.

Week 4: at Cincinnati Bengals

First quarter

  • CLE – Phil Dawson 25-yard field goal, 9:29. ''Browns 3–0. '''Drive: 8 plays, 42 yards, 4:05.''''' Second quarter
  • CIN – Shayne Graham 42-yard field goal, 10:22. ''Tied 3–3. '''Drive: 13 plays, 67 yards, 7:08.'''''
  • CIN – Shayne Graham 45-yard field goal, 0:08. ''Bengals 6–3. '''Drive: 9 plays, 22 yards, 2:21.''''' Third quarter
  • No scoring plays Fourth quarter
  • CLE – Braylon Edwards 4-yard pass from Derek Anderson (Phil Dawson kick), 13:05. ''Browns 10–6. '''Drive: 13 plays, 80 yards, 6:38.'''''
  • CLE – Jamal Lewis 1-yard run (Phil Dawson kick), 11:06. ''Browns 17–6. '''Drive: 4 plays, 22 yards, 1:52.'''''
  • CIN – Chad Johnson 4-yard pass from Ryan Fitzpatrick (pass failed), 7:46. ''Browns 17–12. '''Drive: 8 plays, 59 yards, 3:20.'''''
  • CLE – Phil Dawson 29-yard field goal, 0:32. ''Browns 20–12. '''Drive: 4 plays, 7 yards, 1:32.''''' Top passers
  • CLE – Derek Anderson – 15/24, 138 yards, TD, INT
  • CIN – Ryan Fitzpatrick – 21/35, 156 yards, TD, 3 INT Top rushers
  • CLE – Jamal Lewis – 25 rushes, 79 yards, TD
  • CIN – Ryan Fitzpatrick – 4 rushes, 41 yards Top receivers
  • CLE – Kellen Winslow II – 5 receptions, 54 yards
  • CIN – T. J. Houshmandzadeh – 6 receptions, 50 yards Still searching for their first win of the year, the Browns flew to Paul Brown Stadium for a Week 4 AFC North duel with the Cincinnati Bengals in Round 1 of 2008's Battle of Ohio. In the first quarter, Cleveland drew first blood as kicker Phil Dawson got a 25-yard field goal. In the second quarter, the Bengals responded with kicker Shayne Graham getting a 42-yard and a 45-yard field goal. After a scoreless third quarter, the Browns began the fourth quarter with QB Derek Anderson completing a 4-yard TD pass to WR Braylon Edwards and RB Jamal Lewis getting a 1-yard TD run. Cincinnati would answer with QB Ryan Fitzpatrick completing a 4-yard TD pass to WR Chad Ochocinco (with a failed 2-point conversion), yet Cleveland pulled away with Dawson nailing a 29-yard field goal.

With their first win of the season, the Browns' record improved to 1–3.

Week 5: Bye Week

The Browns entered their bye week with a record of 1–3. The team used the bye week to rest and allow injured players to recover. The Browns also used the extra week to better prepare for their Week 6 opponent: the defending champion New York Giants.

Winslow's Staph Infection

Browns' tight end Kellen Winslow II was hospitalized on October 9 with an undisclosed illness (later revealed to be a staph infection). Winslow spent four nights in the hospital and did not play in the Browns' game against the Giants. Citing Winslow's privacy, the Browns did not comment on his illness.

Week 6: vs. New York Giants

First quarter

  • CLE – Phil Dawson 28-yard field goal, 10:08. ''Browns 3–0. '''Drive: 9 plays, 65 yards, 4:52.''''' Second quarter
  • NYG – Brandon Jacobs 7-yard run (John Carney kick), 12:09. ''Giants 7–3. '''Drive: 6 plays, 58 yards, 3:24.'''''
  • CLE – Jamal Lewis 4-yard run (Phil Dawson kick), 11:10. ''Browns 10–7. '''Drive: 3 plays, 74 yards, 0:59.'''''
  • CLE – Darnell Dinkins 22-yard pass from Derek Anderson (Phil Dawson kick), 2:15. ''Browns 17–7. '''Drive: 9 plays, 77 yards, 5:36.'''''
  • NYG – Plaxico Burress 3-yard pass from Eli Manning (John Carney kick), 0:12. ''Browns 17–14. '''Drive: 10 plays, 79 yards, 2:03.''''' Third quarter
  • CLE – Phil Dawson 26-yard field goal, 11:55. ''Browns 20–14. '''Drive: 6 plays, 38 yards, 2:53.''''' Fourth quarter
  • CLE – Braylon Edwards 11-yard pass from Derek Anderson (Phil Dawson kick), 14:55. ''Browns 27–14. '''Drive: 14 plays, 87 yards, 8:16.'''''
  • CLE – Eric A. Wright 94-yard interception return (Anderson pass to Edwards), 8:07. Browns 35–14 Top passers
  • NYG – Eli Manning – 18/28, 196 yards, TD, 3 INT
  • CLE – Derek Anderson – 18/29, 310 yards, 2 TD Top rushers
  • NYG – Derrick Ward – 10 rushes, 101 yards
  • CLE – Jamal Lewis – 21 rushes, 88 yards, TD Top receivers
  • NYG – Steve Smith – 9 receptions, 94 yards
  • CLE – Braylon Edwards – 5 receptions, 154 yards, TD Coming off their bye week, the Browns went home, donned their throwback uniforms, and played a crucial Week 6 interconference duel with the defending Super Bowl champions, the New York Giants, on Monday Night Football. Also Tom Coughlin’s first game in Cleveland since the 2001 Bottlegate incident when he was with the Jaguars.

In the first quarter, Cleveland drew first blood as kicker Phil Dawson got a 28-yard field goal. In the second quarter, the Giants responded as RB Brandon Jacobs had a touchdown run. The Browns would answer with two touchdowns: A run by RB Jamal Lewis and with QB Derek Anderson pass to TE Darnell Dinkins. New York closed out the half with QB Eli Manning completing a TD pass to WR Plaxico Burress.

In the third quarter, Cleveland added onto its lead as Dawson nailed a 26-yard field goal. The Browns pulled away in the fourth quarter with a touchdown pass from Anderson to WR Braylon Edwards, as well as an Eric Wright interception returned for a touchdown.

With the impressive win, Cleveland improved to 2–3. This was also the Browns' first win on Monday Night Football since 1993.

Crennel Named Coach of the Week

After the Browns' victory over the Giants, head coach Romeo Crennel received NFL Coach of the Week honors for Week 6.

Week 7: at Washington Redskins

First quarter

  • No scoring plays Second quarter
  • No scoring plays Third quarter
  • WSH – Clinton Portis 3-yard run (Shaun Suisham kick), 7:38. ''Redskins 7–0. '''Drive: 6 plays, 62 yards, 2:57.'''''
  • CLE – Phil Dawson 37-yard field goal, 2:48. ''Redskins 7–3. '''Drive: 10 plays, 58 yards, 4:47.''''' Fourth quarter
  • WSH – Santana Moss 18-yard pass from Jason Campbell (Shaun Suisham kick), 12:36. ''Redskins 14–3. '''Drive: 3 plays, 49 yards, 1:14.'''''
  • CLE – Josh Cribbs 1-yard pass from Derek Anderson (Derek Anderson pass to Braylon Edwards), 2:49. ''Redskins 14–11. '''Drive: 5 plays, 29 yards, 2:52.''''' Top passers
  • CLE – Derek Anderson – 14/37, 136 yards, TD
  • WSH – Jason Campbell – 14/23, 164 yards, TD Top rushers
  • CLE – Jamal Lewis – 19 rushes, 80 yards
  • WSH – Clinton Portis – 27 rushes, 175 yards, TD Top receivers
  • CLE – Braylon Edwards – 4 receptions, 58 yards
  • WSH – Santana Moss – 4 receptions, 75 yards, TD Coming off their impressive Monday Night home win over the Giants, the Browns flew to Fedex Field for a Week 7 duel with the Washington Redskins. After a scoreless first half, Cleveland trailed in the third quarter, as Redskins RB Clinton Portis got a 3-yard TD run. The Browns would respond with kicker Phil Dawson nailing a 37-yard field goal. In the fourth quarter, Washington answered with QB Jason Campbell completing an 18-yard TD pass to WR Santana Moss. Cleveland tried to rally as QB Derek Anderson completed a 1-yard TD pass to WR/KR Josh Cribbs (along with a 2-point conversion pass to WR Braylon Edwards). However, Dawson's game-tying 54-yard field goal attempt sailed wide right, preserving the Redskins' win.

With the loss, the Browns fell to 2–4.

Winslow Suspended

On October 21, the Browns suspended TE Kellen Winslow II for one game because of comments made after the Browns' loss to the Redskins. Winslow said he was unhappy about the way the Browns organization treated him while he was out last week for an undisclosed illness, which has since been confirmed to be a staph infection. He told reporters that he felt as though he was being treated like "a piece of meat," and that he was unhappy that general manager Phil Savage did not contact him while he was hospitalized. Savage announce that Winslow was being suspended for the team's game against the Jaguars, without pay, for "conduct detrimental to the club."

Winslow planned to appeal the suspension, but the hearing was not scheduled until October 28, two days after the Jaguars game.

On October 25, the Browns rescinded Winslow's suspension. Although he did not play the game against the Jaguars, he received his game check minus a $25,000 fine.

Week 8: at Jacksonville Jaguars

First quarter

  • CLE – Donté Stallworth 3-yard pass from Derek Anderson (Phil Dawson kick), 2:08. ''Browns 7–0. '''Drive: 9 plays, 80 yards, 4:44.''''' Second quarter
  • JAX – Reggie Williams 5-yard pass from David Garrard (Josh Scobee kick), 10:28. ''Tied 7–7. '''Drive: 13 plays, 74 yards, 6:40.'''''
  • CLE – Jamal Lewis 2-yard run (Phil Dawson kick), 7:20. ''Browns 14–7. '''Drive: 6 plays, 34 yards, 3:08.'''''
  • CLE – Phil Dawson 32-yard field goal, 4:09. ''Browns 17–7. '''Drive: 5 plays, 49 yards, 1:47.''''' Third quarter
  • JAX – Matt Jones 8-yard pass from David Garrard (Josh Scobee kick), 10:27. ''Browns 17–14. '''Drive: 9 plays, 72 yards, 4:33.''''' Fourth quarter
  • JAX – Josh Scobee 53-yard field goal, 8:48. ''Tied 17–17. '''Drive: 7 plays, 19 yards, 2:17.'''''
  • CLE – Phil Dawson 20-yard field goal, 4:35. ''Browns 20–17. '''Drive: 10 plays, 21 yards, 4:13.'''''
  • CLE – Phil Dawson 42-yard field goal, 4:11. ''Browns 23–17. '''Drive: 4 plays, 0 yards, 0:21.''''' Top passers
  • CLE – Derek Anderson – 14/27, 246 yards, TD
  • JAX – David Garrard – 25/42, 283 yards, 2 TD Top rushers
  • CLE – Jamal Lewis – 20 rushes, 81 yards, TD
  • JAX – David Garrard – 7 rushes, 59 yards Top receivers
  • CLE – Steve Heiden – 3 receptions, 73 yards
  • JAX – Matt Jones – 8 receptions, 117 yards, TD Hoping to rebound from their last-second road loss to the Redskins, the Browns flew to Jacksonville Municipal Stadium for a Week 8 duel with the Jacksonville Jaguars. In the first quarter, Cleveland drew first blood as QB Derek Anderson completed a 3-yard TD pass to WR Donté Stallworth. In the second quarter, the Jaguars tied the game as QB David Garrard completed a 5-yard TD pass to WR Reggie Williams. The Browns responded with RB Jamal Lewis getting a 2-yard TD run, along with kicker Phil Dawson getting a 32-yard field goal.

In the third quarter, Jacksonville drew closer as Garrard completed an 8-yard TD pass to WR Matt Jones. In the fourth quarter, the Jaguars tied the game as kicker Josh Scobee made a 53-yard field goal. Afterwards, Cleveland regained the lead with Dawson nailing a 20-yard and a 42-yard field goal, with the defense fending off Jacksonville's last attempt at a comeback.

With the win, the Browns improved to 3–4.

Week 9: vs. Baltimore Ravens

First quarter

  • BAL – Matt Stover 41-yard field goal, 10:43. ''Ravens 3–0. '''Drive: 9 plays, 14 yards, 3:21.'''''
  • BAL – Mark J. Clayton 47-yard pass from Joe Flacco (Matt Stover kick), 5:28. ''Ravens 10–0. '''Drive: 2 plays, 47 yards, 0:49.'''''
  • CLE – Josh Cribbs 92-yard kickoff return (Phil Dawson kick), 5:19. Ravens 10–7. Second quarter
  • CLE – Phil Dawson 23-yard field goal, 5:53. ''Tied 10–10. '''Drive: 11 plays, 74 yards, 5:39.'''''
  • BAL – Matt Stover 32-yard field goal, 0:32. ''Ravens 13–10. '''Drive: 12 plays, 66 yards, 5:21.'''''
  • CLE – Phil Dawson 54-yard field goal, 0:07. ''Tied 13–13. '''Drive: 5 plays, 30 yards, 0:26.''''' Third quarter
  • CLE – Braylon Edwards 28-yard pass from Derek Anderson (Phil Dawson kick), 13:13. ''Browns 20–13. '''Drive: 1 play, 28 yards, 0:08.'''''
  • CLE – Jason Wright 7-yard pass from Derek Anderson (Phil Dawson kick), 6:17. ''Browns 27–13. '''Drive: 8 plays, 72 yards, 4:57.'''''
  • BAL – Le'Ron McClain 1-yard run (Matt Stover kick), 1:15. ''Browns 27–20. '''Drive: 11 plays, 79 yards, 4:57.''''' Fourth quarter
  • BAL – Derrick Mason 28-yard pass from Joe Flacco (Matt Stover kick), 14:07. ''Tied 27–27. '''Drive: 3 plays, 42 yards, 1:03.'''''
  • BAL – Matt Stover 22-yard field goal, 5:40. ''Ravens 30–27. '''Drive: 5 plays, 59 yards, 1:54.'''''
  • BAL – Terrell Suggs 42-yard interception return (Matt Stover kick), 2:52. Ravens 37–27. Top passers
  • BAL – Joe Flacco – 17/29, 248 yards, 2 TD
  • CLE – Derek Anderson – 17/33, 219 yards, 2 TD, INT Top rushers
  • BAL – Ray Rice – 21 rushes, 154 yards
  • CLE – Jamal Lewis – 19 rushes, 49 yards Top receivers
  • BAL – Derrick Mason – 9 receptions, 136 yards, TD
  • CLE – Braylon Edwards – 4 receptions, 86 yards, TD Coming off their road win over the Jaguars, the Browns went home for a Week 9 AFC North rematch with the Baltimore Ravens. In the first quarter, Cleveland trailed early as Ravens kicker Matt Stover kicked a 41-yard field goal, along with QB Joe Flacco completing a 47-yard TD pass to WR Mark Clayton. The Browns immediately responded with WR Josh Cribbs returning a kickoff 92 yards for a touchdown. In the second quarter, Cleveland increased its lead with kicker Phil Dawson kicking a 23-yard field goal. Baltimore responded with Stover making a 32-yard field goal, yet the Browns replied with Dawson's 54-yard field goal.

In the third quarter, Cleveland took the lead as QB Derek Anderson completed a 28-yard TD pass to WR Braylon Edwards and a 7-yard TD pass to RB Jason Wright. The Ravens responded with FB Le'Ron McClain's 1-yard TD run. In the fourth quarter, Baltimore rallied as Flacco completed a 28-yard TD pass to WR Derrick Mason, Stover kicking a 22-yard field goal, and LB Terrell Suggs returning an interception 42 yards for a touchdown.

With the loss, the Browns fell to 3–5.

Quinn Named Starter

On November 3, it was announced that quarterback Derek Anderson would be benched in favor of QB Brady Quinn for the Browns' next game against the Denver Broncos.

Week 10: vs. Denver Broncos

First quarter

  • DEN – Ryan Torain 1-yard run (Matt Prater kick), 7:08. ''Broncos 7–0. '''Drive: 9 plays, 86 yards, 4:48.'''''
  • CLE – Kellen Winslow II 5-yard pass from Brady Quinn (Phil Dawson kick), 3:47. ''Tied 7–7. '''Drive: 6 plays, 59 yards, 3:25.''''' Second quarter
  • CLE – Phil Dawson 24-yard field goal, 12:48. ''Browns 10–7. '''Drive: 10 plays, 67 yards, 3:30.'''''
  • CLE – Kellen Winslow II 16-yard pass from Brady Quinn (Phil Dawson kick), 10:36. ''Browns 17–7. '''Drive: 3 plays, 20 yards, 1:24.'''''
  • DEN – Matt Prater 35-yard field goal, 5:55. ''Browns 17–10. '''Drive: 10 plays, 60 yards, 4:41.'''''
  • CLE – Phil Dawson 52-yard field goal, 1:14. ''Browns 20–10. '''Drive: 8 plays, 45 yards, 4:39.''''' Third quarter
  • CLE – Phil Dawson 33-yard field goal, 10:25. ''Browns 23–10. '''Drive: 10 plays, 64 yards, 4:39.'''''
  • DEN – Matt Prater 30-yard field goal, 5:40. ''Browns 23–13. '''Drive: 10 plays, 60 yards, 4:44.''''' Fourth quarter
  • DEN – Eddie Royal 93-yard pass from Jay Cutler (Matt Prater kick), 13:43. ''Browns 23–20. '''Drive: 1 play, 93 yards, 0:13.'''''
  • DEN – Daniel Graham 27-yard pass from Jay Cutler (Matt Prater kick), 10:00. ''Broncos 27–23. '''Drive: 8 plays, 62 yards, 2:48.'''''
  • CLE – Jamal Lewis 1-yard run (Phil Dawson kick), 5:00. ''Browns 30–27. '''Drive: 9 plays, 78 yards, 4:53.'''''
  • DEN – Brandon Marshall 11-yard pass from Jay Cutler (Matt Prater kick), 1:17. ''Broncos 34–30. '''Drive: 13 plays, 78 yards, 3:43.''''' Top passers
  • DEN – Jay Cutler – 24/42, 447 yards, 3 TD, INT
  • CLE – Brady Quinn – 23/35, 239 yards, 2 TD Top rushers
  • DEN – Ryan Torain – 12 rushes, 68 yards, TD
  • CLE – Jamal Lewis – 19 rushes, 60 yards, TD Top receivers
  • DEN – Eddie Royal – 6 receptions, 164 yards, TD
  • CLE – Kellen Winslow II – 10 receptions, 111 yards, 2 TD
Cleveland Browns vs. Denver Broncos, November 6, 2008

Hoping to rebound from their season-sweeping loss to the Ravens, the Browns stayed at home for a Week 10 Thursday night game against the Denver Broncos. In the first quarter, Cleveland trailed early as Broncos RB Ryan Torain got a 1-yard TD run. The Browns would respond as QB Brady Quinn, making his first career start, completed a 5-yard TD pass to TE Kellen Winslow. In the second quarter, Cleveland took the lead as kicker Phil Dawson made a 24-yard field goal, along with Quinn hooking up with Winslow again on a 16-yard TD pass. Denver would answer with kicker Matt Prater making a 35-yard field goal. The Browns would close out the half with Dawson making a 52-yard field goal.

In the third quarter, Cleveland added onto its lead as Dawson got a 33-yard field goal. The Broncos would reply with Prater making a 30-yard field. In the fourth quarter, Denver regained the lead as QB Jay Cutler completing a 93-yard TD pass to WR Eddie Royal and a 27-yard TD pass to TE Daniel Graham. The Browns would respond with RB Jamal Lewis getting a 1-yard TD run. However, the Broncos replied with Cutler completing an 11-yard TD pass to WR Brandon Marshall. Cleveland tried to come back, but Denver's defense stiffened.

With the loss, the Browns fell to 3–6, making it impossible to improve on their 10–6 record from the 2007 season.

This also marked Cleveland's eighth-straight loss to Denver.

Week 11: at Buffalo Bills

First quarter

  • CLE – Phil Dawson 40-yard field goal, 9:29. ''Browns 3–0. '''Drive: 6 plays, 26 yards, 2:11.'''''
  • CLE – Phil Dawson 33-yard field goal, 2:28. ''Browns 6–0. '''Drive: 4 plays, -3 yards, 0:53.''''' Second quarter
  • CLE – Josh Cribbs 2-yard run (Phil Dawson kick), 9:52. ''Browns 13–0. '''Drive: 12 plays, 95 yards, 5:57.'''''
  • BUF – Marshawn Lynch 18-yard pass from Trent Edwards (Rian Lindell kick), 6:20. ''Browns 13–7. '''Drive: 6 plays, 59 yards, 3:32.'''''
  • BUF – Rian Lindell 26-yard field goal, 0:00. ''Browns 13–10. '''Drive: 13 plays, 55 yards, 4:41.''''' Third quarter
  • CLE – Phil Dawson 43-yard field goal, 6:27. ''Browns 16–10. '''Drive: 9 plays, 37 yards, 4:20.'''''
  • BUF – Rian Lindell 31-yard field goal, 0:22. ''Browns 16–13. '''Drive: 11 plays, 44 yards, 6:05.''''' Fourth quarter
  • CLE – Jerome Harrison 72-yard run (Phil Dawson kick), 14:47. ''Browns 23–13. '''Drive: 2 plays, 83 yards, 0:35.'''''
  • BUF – Leodis McKelvin 98-yard kickoff return (Rian Lindell kick), 14:33. Browns 23–20.
  • CLE – Phil Dawson 22-yard field goal, 11:32. ''Browns 26–20. '''Drive: 9 plays, 43 yards, 3:01.'''''
  • BUF – Trent Edwards 1-yard run (Rian Lindell kick), 2:25. ''Bills 27–26. '''Drive: 5 plays, 48 yards, 2:48.'''''
  • CLE – Phil Dawson 56-yard field goal, 1:39. ''Browns 29–27. '''Drive: 7 plays, 28 yards, 0:46.''''' Top passers
  • CLE – Brady Quinn – 14/36, 185 yards
  • BUF – Trent Edwards – 16/26, 148 yards, TD, 3 INT Top rushers
  • CLE – Jerome Harrison – 3 rushes, 80 yards, TD
  • BUF – Marshawn Lynch – 23 rushes, 119 yards Top receivers
  • CLE – Braylon Edwards – 8 receptions, 104 yards
  • BUF – Marshawn Lynch – 10 receptions, 58 yards, TD Trying to snap a two-game losing streak, the Browns flew to Ralph Wilson Stadium for a Week 11 MNF duel with the Buffalo Bills. In the first quarter, Cleveland took advantage of early Bills miscues as kicker Phil Dawson kicked two field goals. In the second quarter, the Browns increased their lead as Josh Cribbs scored a 2-yard TD run. Buffalo responded with QB Trent Edwards completing an 18-yard TD pass to RB Marshawn Lynch, along with kicker Rian Lindell getting a 26-yard field goal.

In the third quarter, Cleveland answered with Dawson getting a 43-yard field goal. The Bills would reply with Lindell making a 31-yard field goal. In the fourth quarter, the Browns greatly answered with RB Jerome Harrison getting a 72-yard TD run. Buffalo would immediately respond with CB Leodis McKelvin returning a kickoff 98 yards for a touchdown and would take the lead on a 1-yard TD run by Edwards. Afterwards, the Browns regained the lead as Dawson nailed a 56-yard field goal. Buffalo did try to make a comeback, yet Lindell's 47-yard field goal sailed wide right, preserving Cleveland's victory and preventing them from becoming the first NFL team to lose three straight games after having a lead of 13 or more points in each of them.

With the win, the Browns improved to 4–6.

Phil Savage E-Mail controversy

Browns General Manager Phil Savage received a lot of criticism when he received an e-mail from a Browns fans during the Bills game, which read the following:

*You are easily the worst GM in the NFL. Chud, Crennel and Tucker should NOT have jobs. How the hell do you play prevent defense the entire game? How do you NOT use Jerome Harrison more? Why the hell would you throw the ball with 6 minutes left? This is officially a regime that is worse than Butch Davis's. By the way, just like last week – this email was written while the Browns still had the lead.*

After the game, Savage promptly responded to the fan with the following:

*Go root for Buffalo-f#@* you*

Week 12: vs. Houston Texans

First quarter

  • HOU – Kevin Walter 17-yard pass from Sage Rosenfels (Kris Brown kick), 6:55. ''Texans 7–0. '''Drive: 14 plays, 70 yards, 8:11.''''' Second quarter
  • HOU – Kris Brown 31-yard field goal, 13:43. ''Texans 10–0. '''Drive: 10 plays, 28 yards, 5:58.'''''
  • CLE – Phil Dawson 32-yard field goal, 8:03. ''Texans 10–3. '''Drive: 12 plays, 62 yards, 5:38.'''''
  • CLE – Phil Dawson 32-yard field goal, 2:24. ''Texans 10–6. '''Drive: 5 plays, 56 yards, 1:14.'''''
  • HOU – Kris Brown 31-yard field goal, 0:07. ''Texans 13–6. '''Drive: 12 plays, 74 yards, 2:17.''''' Third quarter
  • HOU – Kris Brown 36-yard field goal, 8:53. ''Texans 16–6. '''Drive: 5 plays, 25 yards, 1:55.''''' Fourth quarter
  • No scoring plays Top passers
  • HOU – Sage Rosenfels – 24/32, 275 yards, TD, 2 INT
  • CLE – Brady Quinn – 8/18, 94 yards, 2 INT Top rushers
  • HOU – Steve Slaton – 21 rushes, 73 yards
  • CLE – Jamal Lewis – 10 rushes, 58 yards Top receivers
  • HOU – Andre Johnson – 10 receptions, 116 yards
  • CLE – Braylon Edwards – 5 receptions, 85 yards Coming off their MNF road win over the Bills, the Browns went home for a Week 12 duel with the Houston Texans. In the first quarter, Cleveland trailed early as Texans QB Sage Rosenfels completed a 17-yard TD pass to WR Kevin Walter. In the second quarter, Houston increased its lead as kicker Kris Brown got a 31-yard field goal. The Browns would respond with kicker Phil Dawson getting a pair of 32-yard field goals, but the Texans answered with Brown's 31-yard field goal. In the third quarter, Houston kept its momentum going with Brown nailing a 31-yard field goal. Cleveland tried to rally, but Houston's defense was too much.

With the loss, the Browns fell to 4–7.

Quinn out for season

On November 25, it was announced that quarterback Brady Quinn would be out for the season due to a fractured right index finger suffered in the Browns' week 11 duel with the Buffalo Bills. Derek Anderson was announced to be the starter for their next game against the Indianapolis Colts.

Week 13: vs. Indianapolis Colts

First quarter

  • CLE – Phil Dawson 34-yard field goal, 9:09. ''Browns 3–0. '''Drive: 10 plays, 30 yards, 5:32.'''''
  • IND – Adam Vinatieri 30-yard field goal, 2:02. ''Tied 3–3. '''Drive: 12 plays, 65 yards, 7:06.''''' Second quarter
  • CLE – Phil Dawson 25-yard field goal, 7:36. ''Browns 6–3. '''Drive: 16 plays, 66 yards, 9:23.''''' Third quarter
  • No scoring plays Fourth quarter
  • IND – Robert Mathis 37-yard fumble return (Adam Vinatieri kick), 9:55. Colts 10–6. Top passers
  • IND – Peyton Manning – 15/21, 125 yards, 2 INT
  • CLE – Derek Anderson – 16/26, 110 yards Top rushers
  • IND – Joseph Addai – 15 rushes, 57 yards
  • CLE – Jamal Lewis – 24 rushes, 77 yards Top receivers
  • IND – Reggie Wayne – 4 receptions, 46 yards
  • CLE – Braylon Edwards – 2 receptions, 36 yards Hoping to rebound from their loss to the Texans, the Browns stayed at home for a Week 13 duel with the Indianapolis Colts. In the first quarter, Cleveland struck first as kicker Phil Dawson kicked a 34-yard field goal. The Colts answered with kicker Adam Vinatieri kicking a 30-yard field goal. In the second quarter, the Browns regained the lead as Dawson nailed a 25-yard field goal. However, after a scoreless third quarter, Indianapolis' defense answered in the fourth quarter, as DE Robert Mathis returned a fumble 37 yards for a touchdown. From there on out, Cleveland was unable to come back.

With the loss, the Browns stumbled to 4–8.

Anderson out for season

On December 1, it was announced that QB Derek Anderson would be done for the season following a torn MCL suffered in the loss to the Colts. Third-string QB Ken Dorsey was announced to be starting for the Browns' next game against the Tennessee Titans.

Bruce Gradkowski signed

On December 2, the Browns signed free-agent veteran QB Bruce Gradkowski to a two-year contract. Gradkowski will serve as the backup QB under Dorsey for the Browns' next game against the Tennessee Titans.

Week 14: at Tennessee Titans

First quarter

  • CLE – Phil Dawson 47-yard field goal, 11:58. ''Browns 3–0. '''Drive: 7 plays, 33 yards, 3:02.'''''
  • CLE – Phil Dawson 41-yard field goal, 4:00. ''Browns 6–0. '''Drive: 4 plays, 2 yards, 1:28.''''' Second quarter
  • TEN – Ahmard Hall 28-yard pass from Kerry Collins (Rob Bironas kick), 14:10. ''Titans 7–6. '''Drive: 10 plays, 68 yards, 4:50.'''''
  • TEN – LenDale White 3-yard run (Rob Bironas kick), 1:11. ''Titans 14–6. '''Drive: 10 plays, 73 yards, 5:05.''''' Third quarter
  • TEN – Justin Gage 9-yard pass from Kerry Collins (Rob Bironas kick), 11:46. ''Titans 21–6. '''Drive: 2 plays, 11 yards, 0:42.''''' Fourth quarter
  • CLE – Phil Dawson 39-yard field goal, 13:30. ''Titans 21–9. '''Drive: 11 plays, 24 yards, 3:41.'''''
  • TEN – Chris Johnson 25-yard run (Rob Bironas kick), 8:22. ''Titans 28–9. '''Drive: 1 play, 25 yards, 0:08.''''' Top passers
  • CLE – Ken Dorsey – 22/43, 150 yards, INT
  • TEN – Kerry Collins – 14/23, 155 yards, 2 TD, 2 INT Top rushers
  • CLE – Josh Cribbs – 6 rushes, 24 yards
  • TEN – Chris Johnson – 19 rushes, 136 yards, TD Top receivers
  • CLE – Jason Wright – 5 receptions, 40 yards
  • TEN – Chris Johnson – 4 receptions, 30 yards Trying to rebound from back-to-back home losses, the Browns flew to LP Field for a Week 14 duel with the Tennessee Titans. Cleveland struck first in the opening quarter as kicker Phil Dawson got a 47-yard and a 41-yard field goal. The Titans took the lead in the second quarter, as QB Kerry Collins completed a 28-yard touchdown pass to FB Ahmard Hall, along with RB LenDale White got a 3-yard touchdown run. Tennessee would increase its lead in the third quarter as Collins completed a 9-yard touchdown to wide receiver Justin Gage. In the fourth quarter, the Browns to rally as Dawson nailed a 39-yard field goal, yet the Titans pulled away as RB Chris Johnson got a 25-yard touchdown run.

With the loss, Cleveland fell to 4–9.

Week 15: at Philadelphia Eagles

First quarter

  • PHI – Kevin Curtis 14-yard pass from Donovan McNabb (David Akers kick), 10:45. ''Eagles 7–0. '''Drive: 8 plays, 64 yards, 4:15.'''''
  • CLE – Phil Dawson 27-yard field goal, 6:48. ''Eagles 7–3. '''Drive: 9 plays, 63 yards, 3:57.'''''
  • PHI – David Akers 24-yard field goal, 0:49. ''Eagles 10–3. '''Drive: 12 plays, 51 yards, 5:59.''''' Second quarter
  • PHI – Asante Samuel 50-yard interception return (David Akers kick), 4:45. Eagles 17–3. Third quarter
  • PHI – David Akers 34-yard field goal, 3:34. ''Eagles 20–3. '''Drive: 14 plays, 63 yards, 7:50.''''' Fourth quarter
  • PHI – David Akers 34-yard field goal, 14:52. ''Eagles 23–3. '''Drive: 7 plays, 29 yards, 2:39.'''''
  • PHI – Greg Lewis 10-yard pass from Donovan McNabb (David Akers kick), 11:14. ''Eagles 30–3. '''Drive: 2 plays, 37 yards, 0:41.'''''
  • CLE – Brandon McDonald 24-yard interception return (Phil Dawson kick), 9:11. Eagles 30–10. Top passers
  • CLE – Ken Dorsey – 11/28, 156 yards, 2 INT
  • PHI – Donovan McNabb – 26/35, 290 yards, 2 TD, INT Top rushers
  • CLE – Jamal Lewis – 14 rushes, 32 yards
  • PHI – Correll Buckhalter – 6 rushes, 55 yards Top receivers
  • CLE – Braylon Edwards – 5 receptions, 102 yards
  • PHI – Jason Avant – 5 receptions, 101 yards Coming off three straight losses without a touchdown, the Cleveland Browns sought to go 3–0 on Monday Night games, this time on the road against the Philadelphia Eagles. The Eagles struck first with a touchdown pass to WR Kevin Curtis. Both teams also traded field goals in the first quarter. CB Asante Samuel extended the Eagles' lead in the second quarter with an interception return for a touchdown, and K David Akers added a field goal in the third quarter. Cleveland could not answer, but DB Brandon McDonald scored the first touchdown for the Browns in 4 games with an interception return in the fourth quarter. This game saw the Browns extend their offensive troubles, going 16 quarters without an offensive touchdown.

With the loss, the Browns fell to 4–10, the third time in four years under Romeo Crennel that the Browns have had double-digit losses.

Week 16: vs. Cincinnati Bengals

First quarter

  • CIN – Leon Hall 50-yard interception return (Shayne Graham kick), 8:39. Bengals 7–0. Second quarter
  • CIN – Chris Henry 20-yard pass from Ryan Fitzpatrick (Shayne Graham kick), 8:08. ''Bengals 14–0. '''Drive: 15 plays, 82 yards, 8:36.''''' Third quarter
  • No scoring plays Fourth quarter
  • No scoring plays Top passers
  • CIN – Ryan Fitzpatrick – 5/9, 55 yards, TD
  • CLE – Ken Dorsey – 10/17, 64 yards, 3 INT Top rushers
  • CIN – Cedric Benson – 38 rushes, 171 yards
  • CLE – Jamal Lewis – 16 rushes, 76 yards Top receivers
  • CIN – Chris Johnson – 3 receptions, 27 yards
  • CLE – Jason Wright – 6 receptions, 33 yards Coming off four straight losses in which their offense failed to score a touchdown, the Cleveland Browns played their final home game of the season in near-zero wind chills against the Cincinnati Bengals. The Bengals scored first, with CB Leon Hall intercepting a Ken Dorsey pass and returning it 50 yards for a touchdown in the first quarter. WR Chris Henry completed the scoring by adding on a 20-yard touchdown reception in the second quarter. The shutout marked five straight games in which Cleveland's offense couldn't find the end zone. The only bright spot for the Browns was RB Jamal Lewis, who became the 24th NFL player to reach 10,000 career rushing yards.

With the loss, the Browns fell to 4–11, and ended the season 1–7 at home.

Week 17: at Pittsburgh Steelers

First quarter

  • No scoring plays Second quarter
  • PIT – Willie Parker 34-yard run (Jeff Reed kick), 4:15. ''Steelers 7–0. '''Drive: 3 plays, 57 yards, 1:28.'''''
  • PIT – Byron Leftwich 8-yard run (Jeff Reed kick), 0:40. ''Steelers 14–0. '''Drive: 10 plays, 52 yards, 2:00.''''' Third quarter
  • PIT – Jeff Reed 22-yard field goal, 5:39. ''Steelers 17–0. '''Drive: 4 plays, 7 yards, 2:01.''''' Fourth quarter
  • PIT – Gary Russell 3-yard run (Jeff Reed kick), 9:45. ''Steelers 24–0. '''Drive: 12 plays, 66 yards, 7:23.'''''
  • PIT – Tyrone Carter 32-yard interception return (Jeff Reed kick), 8:52. Steelers 31–0. Top passers
  • CLE – Bruce Gradkowski – 5/16, 18 yards, 2 INT
  • PIT – Ben Roethlisberger – 9/14, 110 yards, INT Top rushers
  • CLE – Jamal Lewis – 23 rushes, 94 yards
  • PIT – Willie Parker – 23 rushes, 116 yards, TD Top receivers
  • CLE – Donté Stallworth – 1 reception, 12 yards
  • PIT – Hines Ward – 6 receptions, 70 yards Coming off five straight losses without a touchdown on offense, the Cleveland Browns closed out the regular season at Heinz Field in a Week 17 AFC North rematch with their hated rival, the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Steelers put up two touchdowns in the second quarter, a 34-yard run by RB Willie Parker and an 8-yard scramble by QB Byron Leftwich. The Steelers added 17 points in the second half (22-yard Jeff Reed field goal, 3-yard Gary Russell touchdown run, and a 32-yard interception TD return by Tyrone Carter). Cleveland's offensive ineptitude continued. With Dorsey placed on IR, the Browns had to start Bruce Gradkowski who finished the game with a passer rating of 1.0, the lowest in the NFL that season. This was also Cleveland's sixth straight game in which the offense couldn't score a touchdown (an NFL record 24 quarters). Again, the only good news for the Browns was RB Jamal Lewis, who topped 1,000 rushing yards this season. He would become the first Browns running back since Mike Pruitt in 1980 & 1981 to have back-to-back 1,000-yard rushing seasons.

With the loss, the Browns ended their season at 4–12, with a record of 3–5 away from home. This also marked the Browns' eleventh straight loss to the Steelers. This season began a 12-year streak of losing seasons that would end in 2020.

Savage and Crennel fired

After the game, it was announced that GM Phil Savage was fired. One day later, head coach Romeo Crennel would also be released after the Browns ended their season at 4–12, at the bottom of the AFC North.

2009 Pro Bowl

Despite the disappointing performance by the team, LT Joe Thomas, DT Shaun Rogers, and LS Ryan Pontbriand were recognized for individual accomplishments as they were named to the AFC roster for the 2009 Pro Bowl. Thomas and Rogers were selected by the pro-bowl voters., and Pontbriand was selected as a "need" player by the Baltimore Ravens coaching staff, who will be coaching the AFC squad.

KR Josh Cribbs was named a first alternate, K Phil Dawson a second alternate, and LG Eric Steinbach and LB D'Qwell Jackson were named third alternates at their respective positions.

References

References

  1. [https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=3795786 Browns to fire Crennel after Savage ousted]
  2. Jackson, Zac. (January 7, 2008). "Chudzinski signs 2-year extension". clevelandbrowns.com.
  3. Press Release. (January 11, 2008). "Grantham not retained for '08". clevelandbrowns.com.
  4. [[Associated Press]]. (January 11, 2008). "Poor defensive showing costs Browns coordinator his job". NFL.
  5. Jackson, Zac. (January 12, 2008). "Tucker named defensive coordinator". clevelandbrowns.com.
  6. link. (January 31, 2008)
  7. Walcoff, Jeff. (January 9, 2008). "'We'll do right by him'". clevelandbrowns.com.
  8. [http://www.nfl.com/news/story?id=09000d5d806f3894&template=without-video&confirm=true Browns, Anderson, agree on multiyear contract]
  9. link. (March 3, 2008)
  10. [http://www.nfl.com/news/story?id=09000d5d806c9a1f&template=with-video&confirm=true Lewis, Browns agree on new three-year deal]
  11. [http://www.nfl.com/news/story?id=09000d5d806f741a&template=without-video&confirm=true Instead of Bengals, Browns land DT Shaun Rogers from Lions]
  12. link. (March 4, 2008)
  13. [http://www.nfl.com/news/story?id=09000d5d806f3894&template=with-video&confirm=true Browns agree to deal with QB Anderson, close to trade for DT Williams]
  14. link. (August 20, 2008)
  15. link. (June 14, 2008)
  16. [http://www.nfl.com/news/story?id=09000d5d806ebaf2&template=without-video&confirm=true Browns terminate contract of veteran DE Roye]
  17. link. (May 20, 2008)
  18. The Browns do not have a first, second, or third round selection due to trades made to other teams. The first-round selection was traded to the [[Dallas Cowboys]] in order to acquire quarterback [[Brady Quinn]] in the [[2007 NFL draft. 2007 draft]], the second-round selection was traded to the [[Green Bay Packers]] for defensive tackle [[Corey Williams (American football). Corey Williams]], and the third-round selection was traded to the [[Detroit Lions]] for defensive tackle [[Shaun Rogers (American football). Shaun Rogers]]
  19. The Browns received two fourth round selections (104th and 111th overall) from the [[Dallas Cowboys]] in exchange for the Browns' fourth-round selection (#122 overall), fifth-round selection (#155 overall) and [[2009 NFL draft]] third-round selection.
  20. The Browns received a sixth-round selection from the [[Seattle Seahawks]] in exchange for quarterback [[Charlie Frye]]
  21. The Browns traded this sixth-round selection to the [[Philadelphia Eagles]] as a condition for receiving center [[Hank Fraley]]. The Eagles returned the pick to the Browns in exchange for the Browns' 5th-round pick in 2009.
  22. [http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5h_noVCFb9IBOi3ygtHvE_4csOHiAD93VNN5G0 Browns keep Winslow's Staph from Team] {{webarchive. link. (October 31, 2008)
  23. [http://www.clevelandleader.com/node/7245 Winslow Remains Hospitalized for Undisclosed Illness] {{webarchive. link. (July 21, 2011)
  24. link. (October 21, 2008)
  25. (October 22, 2008). "Browns suspend Winslow one game over critical comments". ESPN NFL.
  26. Turner, Jamie. (October 25, 2008). "Text messages back Winslow, prompt Browns to end suspension". Cleveland.com.
  27. link. (December 6, 2008)
  28. [http://deadspin.com/5093632/browns-gm-phil-savage-responds-to-email-hecklers-swiftly-but-not-very-politely Browns' GM Phil Savage Responds To Email Hecklers Swiftly, But Not Very Politely (UPDATE)]
  29. [http://www.profootballtalk.com/2008/11/19/savage-gets-testy/comment-page-2/ ProFootballTalk]
  30. (September 2011)
  31. (September 2011)
  32. link. (December 5, 2008)
  33. [https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=3739884 Browns sign Gradkowski to two-year contract]
  34. Jackson, Zac. (December 16, 2008). "Thomas, Rogers Headed to Hawaii".
  35. Jackson, Zac. (January 28, 2009). "Pontbriand added to Pro Bowl roster".
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