Quarterback Josh McCown threw a touchdown pass in his debut for Cleveland and backup Johnny Manzielscrambled for a TD as the Browns, busting out new uniforms for the first time, built an early lead before losing 20-17 to theWashington Redskins on Thursday night in their preseason opener.
McCown, signed during the offseason to bring stability to Cleveland's troublesome position, connected with Travis Benjaminon a 2-yard TD in the first quarter. Manziel ran 12 yards for a score in the second.
Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin III went 4 of 8 passing for 36 yards during two possessions with Washington's starters. Griffin would have thrown a TD pass, but wide receiver Pierre Garcon dropped a long toss.
Kirk Cousins rallied the Redskins, who trailed 14-3 in the second quarter. Cousins ran for a TD and went 12 of 14 for 154 yards.
