Mike Pettine: 'I'm excited for first Johnny Manziel start'

Cleveland Browns coach Mike Pettine has admitted that he is eager to see quarterback Johnny Manziel perform in his first NFL start.

The recent poor form of Brian Hoyer has forced the Browns to turn to Manziel, who excelled as a college player with the Texas A&M Aggies.

Following a last-gasp defeat to the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday, Pettine made the decision to promote Manziel for this weekend's divisional clash with the Cincinnati Bengals.

Pettine told reporters: "I'd be a liar if I said I wasn't excited to see him play.

"We're not trying to install a new play book in a week, but we'll just be highlighting different portions of it with Johnny under centre."

Despite the change, Pettine also admitted that he would not be afraid to turn back to Hoyer, should Manziel struggle.

The Browns still harbour hopes of making the playoffs, with a 7-6 record in the AFC North.