Ohio Sports Insider

Top Position Battles Heading to Training Camp

Heading into training camp the TSP takes a look at the top position battles ahead for the Browns.

RB Jerome Harrison vs Montario Hardesty

Harrison heads into camp as number 1 on the depth chart at running back. Harrison had a breakout second half of the season for the Browns last year. Any way you look at it Harrison is going to get his share of carries this season. He has earned the opportunity to be the featured back, but obviously the Browns would prefer a bigger more physical running back. That is why the Browns drafted Montario Hardesty in the 2nd round of the draft. Hardesty has the size/speed combo that has the Browns coaches drooling. Barring injury it would seem very likely to see a 50-40-10% breakdown in rushing attempts on average with Harrison getting a slightly larger workload this season. Peyton Hillis will be another running back that will get some carries this season, but he is not a threat for the starting position.

Safety T.J Ward vs. Larry Asante

While both Ward and Asante impressed during mini camp and the OTA's, both are still rookies. Both players excel at playing the run and are sure tacklers. The key will be who can step up play solidly against the pass. The Browns have been in search of a hard hitting safety that can play an all around game since they returned. The hope is that one of these guys will be that missing piece to an improving defensive backfield. Look for T.J. Ward to win this battle in the end, but this will be a fun one to watch all preseason long.

Outside Linebacker Chris Gocong vs.David Bowens vs. Jason Trusnik vs. Marcus Benard

We are conceding one starting OLB spot to Matt Roth. The battle for the starter opposite Roth is going to be tough and very crowded. David Bowens played well late for the Browns last season, but he is entering his 12th year and is on the downward slope of his career. Gocong was brought in from the Eagles as a player that has never lived up to his pre draft hype. A change of scenery and defensive philosophy could be just what Gocong needs. Trusnik plays solidly and is a smart player. Trusnik is a beast on special teams, and that is probably what his main job will be this season. Benard has pass rushing skill, but has to play better vs the run at the point of attack. In the end look for Gocong to win this battle, but it is far from a sure thing.

A Look to the Future

The second half of the Indians season will focus on seeing what the youngsters can do at the big league level. We will get extended looks at Michael Brantley, Matt LaPorta, Carlos Santana etc....Here are some players that should be brought up to Cleveland in the not to distant future.

3rd Baseman Jared Goedert- Goedert is tearing up AAA pitching and has skyrocketed up the Tribe's prospect rankings. Goedert has a chance to succeed Jhonny Peralta at 3rd and keep the seat warm until Lonnie Chisenhall is ready.

LF Jordan Brown- Brown should have been given a chance last year, after he won the International league batting crown. Brown is a sweet swinging outfielder who has hit at every level and should get a look to see if he can do it at the major league level. His defense is average at best.

SP Carlos Carrasco- Once Jake Westbrook is traded Carrasco has to be brought up and given a chance. Carrasco has 3 quality big league pitches with his fastball 91-93 mph, an above average change, and a solid curve. To be successful Carrasco has to be more willing to pitching inside and needs better overall control with all his pitches. He will get his shot soon.

What the Cavaliers Need to do!

With trader James moving his act and his thug posse to Miami it is time for the Cavaliers to focus on how to rebuild this team. As it stands the Cavs are not a playoff team and even if they are, they would be a 7 or 8 seed at best. Byron Scott has said he wants to try to win this year. He has to say that, but the Cavaliers have to be eying the 2011 draft and should have there eyes set on Harrison Barnes. Barnes will be a freshaman at North Carolina this year and is considered the top pick in the 2011 draft if he decides he is a one and done player in college. Barnes is said to have a Kobe Bryant type game at 6'8 and 210 lbs. The Cavs have to realize, they are not going to attract any big name free agents, so they have to hope to get lucky in the lottery again. That is there best chance at getting back to a championship level.