Johnny Manziel to the rescue.
With Josh McCown likely sidelined with a rib injury, the Browns are preparing to start the second-year quarterback in Thursday's key AFC North matchup against the undefeated Bengals, NFL.com reported Tuesday.
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Manziel briefly replaced McCown in Sunday's loss to the Cardinals after McCown took a hard hit from linebacker Kevin Minter in the second half. McCown was examined by team trainers on the sideline and eventually returned to the game, staying in until the fourth quarter. He had completed 18 of 34 passes for 211 yards and three touchdowns with an interception before getting hurt.
McCown's status for Sunday was already suspect, as he was listed as questionable on the injury report with a shoulder injury. Coach Mike Pettine would not disclose whether McCown's rib X-rays came back negative but classified him as "day-to-day" for Week 9. Cleveland could also be without cornerback Joe Haden and safety Donte Whitner after they sustained concussions against Arizona.
Manziel, who hasn't started since leading the Browns to a win over the Titans in Week 2, has completed 25 of 44 passes for 381 yards and three touchdowns with an interception in three games this season.