3...2...1...Blastoff.
The Johnny Manziel era is finally underway in Cleveland as the rookie quarterback will make his first career start this weekend against the Cincinnati Bengals, ESPN reports.
Manziel replaces Brian Hoyer, who threw 10 touchdowns against just four interceptions during Cleveland's 6-3 start but has tossed just one touchdown and eight interceptions over the team's recent 1-3 skid. The team has informed both quarterbacks of the move.
Head coach Mike Pettine hinted at a quarterback change during a news conference on Monday. Hoyer threw two interceptions during Sunday's game against the Indianapolis Colts, and managed just 41 yards in the second half. Hoyer has produced just one touchdown drive in his last 29 series, according to ESPN.
Manziel came in for a struggling Hoyer during a loss to the Buffalo Bills on Nov. 30 and led the team on an 80-yard touchdown drive by scoring on a 10-yard run. Pettine has offered praise for that drive while also noting that the Bills were in prevent defense and that was not a true measure for Manziel's development.
The Browns selected Manziel with 22nd overall pick in the 2014 draft.
