NOTEBOOK

NOTEBOOK
Browns vs. Bengals
Different story: Bengals coach Marvin Lewis got his first NFL coaching victory in last season's game at Cleveland and several players credited him with changing the attitude of the team. He hasn't shown the same magic this season as the Bengals dropped to 1-4. "The overriding concern is you put a lot of hard work in, and the [players] are disappointed, and now they are going to be attacked," said Lewis. "They have to be strong, though, because that is not going to help them get any better."
Nice defense: The Browns' defense held the Bengals to just 189 total yards and Cincinnati converted just 1-of-13 third downs. All 17 of Cincinnati's points came off Browns turnovers inside the Cleveland 30. The Bengals' longest offensive play was 21 yards. "I wish I knew the reason we were not explosive, so we could change it," said Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer. "Everyone keeps saying 'execution, execution.' If you do not execute, you are not going be explosive. If you are not explosive, you are not going to win."
Nice offense: Quarterback Jeff Garcia became the first Cleveland quarterback to throw four touchdowns in a game since Bernie Kosar did it on Dec. 13, 1987. It also tied Garcia's career high and was the 15th 300-yard passing game in his career. "It was a big day for the offense," Garcia said. "What you saw was pretty indicative of what the coaches and the team want to see out of this offense. We really focusing on pounding the football and then build off of that." Garcia also threw two interceptions -- both to Tory James -- and lost a fumble. Running back Lee Suggs also lost a fumble, although his knee appeared to be down. Browns coach Butch Davis lost a challenge on the play. "I thought I was down," Suggs said. "My shin was down."
Nice kicking: Browns kicker Phil Dawson made two field goals and has made 23 straight -- the best current streak in the NFL. His wife, Shannon, sang the national anthem before the game.
Local connection: Bengals cornerback Keiwan Ratliff, the team's second round draft pick last April, was born in Youngstown. He went to high school in Columbus at Whitehall-Yearling before playing at the University of Florida.
Up next: The Browns will play host to the undefeated Philadelphia Eagles at 1 p.m. Sunday (17/62).
Joe Scalzo