Cleveland Browns

Coach says Browns have quarterback Johnny Manziel's back

Published Dec. 14, 2015 3:22 p.m. ET

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CLEVELAND (AP) Browns coach Mike Pettine dismisses any outside critics of quarterback Johnny Manziel because they don't see how hard he's working to improve.

Manziel had perhaps his finest NFL game Sunday, passing for 270 yards and a touchdown as the Browns beat San Francisco 24-10 to snap a seven-game losing streak. Manziel returned to the lineup after being disciplined two games by Pettine, who says the QB is continuing to make major strides.

While there are still concerns about Manziel's behavior off the field, Pettine praised the 23-year-old's work ethic and attitude inside Cleveland's facility. He added that Manziel's teammates have not given up on Manziel because they have also seen major improvement in his commitment.

Pettine says Manziel's energy ''gets our guys going.''

Browns tight end Gary Barnidge said Manziel's teammates ''are going to be behind him no matter what.''

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AP NFL website: www.pro32.ap.org and www.twitter.com/AP-NFL

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