Plenty of northeast Ohioans are showing their support for quarterback Johnny Manziel, donning jerseys at Indians games or "Money Manziel" T-shirts as they stroll through Crocker Park and other public places cluttered with possible fans.
But one establishment on the west side of Cleveland isn't on the Manziel bandwagon -- not yet at least. No, they're all for Brian Hoyer. Look no further than the sign outside owner Jim Stamper's bar.
. @StampersBar showing their support for @bhoyer6 pic.twitter.com/Uc7cC6vV0M
— Ashley Collins (@STOashley) June 3, 2014
Stamper's ties with the Hoyer family run deep -- while owning a bar in Lakewood, Stamper first became friendly with Brian Hoyer's dad, Axel. Later, Stamper's son went to school with Brian and Mrs. Hoyer helped deliver Stamper's grandson.
Little did Mr. Stamper know that one-day Mr. Hoyer's son would be the starting quarterback of the Cleveland Browns.
"Until he [Manziel] earns the job, I think Hoyer should have it," Stamper said. "I know the Hoyer family very well and why not give him [Hoyer] support."
Hoyer, a native of North Olmsted, Ohio and alum of St. Ignatius High School in Cleveland, impressed as the Browns' starting quarterback for two games before blowing out his knee early on in his third start last season.
While the sign says, "Manziel can wait," Stamper wants to make it clear he is not anti-Manziel.
"I'm all for the guy when he earns the job," Stamper said. "If Manziel just kicks his butt in camp, then things will work themselves out. I don't believe in handing anybody anything until you earn it."
Stamper's sign has caught the attention of not only his regular patrons but national media, as well. His regulars are all for Hoyer but a Manziel jersey won't be frowned upon at the bar.
"I'd be a Hoyer-backing bar in a minute but the best thing to do is be a Browns backing bar," Stamper said.
In fact, Stamper will be at Progressive Field Wednesday night when Manziel throws out the first pitch. Stamper won't be hard to pick out in the likely sea of Manziel apparel. His choice of gear? A Brian Hoyer jersey.
