By David Moore / Reporter
DavidMooreDMN@gmail.com
November 15, 2012
If you believe that Morris Claiborne has lost confidence after his troubles in Philadelphia, if you’re convinced he’s anxious heading into this weekend’s game, you don’t know the rookie cornerback.
Not only does Claiborne expect Cleveland to target him Sunday afternoon, he welcomes it.
“I hope so,’’ Claiborne said. “I feel it’s a blessing.
“I know guys are going to come out (and say), ‘well, just throw it up there. We’re either going to catch it or get a penalty.’
“That’s why I have to play smart and go up and attack the ball.’’
Claiborne has been praised all season for his strong performance. A phrase you often heard from coaches and teammates was how he didn’t look like a rookie.
The team’s win over the Eagles was the first time that didn’t hold true. Claiborne was hit with five penalties and gave up a touchdown, his second of the season.
There is already one adjustment Claiborne will make against the Browns. Instead of using his hands to feel where the receiver is when he turns his head to run, he will try to make contact with his body.
The rookie has not tried to hide after his performance. He has told teammates in practice this week not to mess with him. After all, he’s the man with five penalties.
“I’ve got to have amnesia,’’ Claiborne said. “Let it go, whether it’s a good play or a bad play.
“I’m always positive. Something bad happen, I’m always trying to look forward. I’m like, how can I make a play to make other people forget it because I’ve already forgot it.
“But I know you guys (media) aren’t going to forget it.’’
Good point.
“I’ve just got to make the best of the situation,’’ Claiborne said. “When they do throw, I’ve got to seize the moment and go make a play.
“There’s not sense me beating myself up over it.’’
DavidMooreDMN@gmail.com
November 15, 2012
If you believe that Morris Claiborne has lost confidence after his troubles in Philadelphia, if you’re convinced he’s anxious heading into this weekend’s game, you don’t know the rookie cornerback.
Not only does Claiborne expect Cleveland to target him Sunday afternoon, he welcomes it.
“I hope so,’’ Claiborne said. “I feel it’s a blessing.
“I know guys are going to come out (and say), ‘well, just throw it up there. We’re either going to catch it or get a penalty.’
“That’s why I have to play smart and go up and attack the ball.’’
Claiborne has been praised all season for his strong performance. A phrase you often heard from coaches and teammates was how he didn’t look like a rookie.
The team’s win over the Eagles was the first time that didn’t hold true. Claiborne was hit with five penalties and gave up a touchdown, his second of the season.
There is already one adjustment Claiborne will make against the Browns. Instead of using his hands to feel where the receiver is when he turns his head to run, he will try to make contact with his body.
The rookie has not tried to hide after his performance. He has told teammates in practice this week not to mess with him. After all, he’s the man with five penalties.
“I’ve got to have amnesia,’’ Claiborne said. “Let it go, whether it’s a good play or a bad play.
“I’m always positive. Something bad happen, I’m always trying to look forward. I’m like, how can I make a play to make other people forget it because I’ve already forgot it.
“But I know you guys (media) aren’t going to forget it.’’
Good point.
“I’ve just got to make the best of the situation,’’ Claiborne said. “When they do throw, I’ve got to seize the moment and go make a play.
“There’s not sense me beating myself up over it.’’
