No 'quick hook' for Brian Hoyer

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Wednesday, September 3, 2014

BEREA, Ohio -- Browns quarterback Brian Hoyer doesn't have to look over his shoulder and worry.

Cleveland coach Mike Pettine said Wednesday that he's told Hoyer, who was named the starter for this week's opener in Pittsburgh over hyped rookie Johnny Manziel, he won't use "a quick hook" and pull him from a game. Pettine spoke to Hoyer about the club's expectations this season and told the veteran that the team supports him.

"[Pettine] said, 'Look I just want you to go out and be yourself and play and not worry about anything else.' I think for me that's the way my personality is regardless," Hoyer said.

"Had he said it or not, I think my mentality would be the same," Hoyer added.

Pettine said Hoyer also understands he has to produce.

The coach would not say whether he plans to use Manziel in any package against the Steelers.

Hoyer has been on both sides of Cleveland's long-standing rivalry with Pittsburgh. He acknowledged having a soft spot for the Steelers, who signed him in 2012 after New England cut him.

Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.

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