Brian Hoyer is the first man up in the Cleveland Browns' quarterback competition.
Browns coach Mike Pettine announced after Wednesday's practice that Hoyer will start Saturday's preseason opener against the Detroit Lions.
Pettine added that it's possible Johnny Manziel could see some time with the first team. Asked if he still wants to have a starting quarterback in place by the team's third preseason game, Pettine replied, "That's the plan."
Hoyer handled first-team reps in the first week of training camp. Manziel worked with the 1s earlier this week, though Pettine said that was part of a larger plan and not an indication of any shift in the competition.
A reporter asked Pettine if the starting job will be determined by how Hoyer and Manziel fare in the team's first two preseason games.
"More than likely," Pettine said. "I think more weight will be put on those as I've said before because it's live reps. The practice part will still be important, but it's safe to say that."
Pettine wouldn't say if Manziel would get the start next week against the Redskins. Barring injury or a meltdown against the Lions, it would make sense for the rookie to get his shot.
The latest Around The League Podcast debates which offense will be the NFL's most prolific and dives into the quarterback battles in Cleveland and Minnesota.
