Die Hard Browns Fans: John & Jennifer

Are you ready for this week's special installment of Interview with a Die Hard Browns Fan feature?

This week, I'm offering you a double feature (and, I'm back to interviewing relatives). My cousin Jennifer and her husband John are big-time Browns fans.

Both grew up in Elyria and now reside in Amherst. On Sundays in the fall, you can be sure to spot them tailgating outside the stadium prior to Browns games — they're both die-hard fans.

So, without further ado, I give you the Blawg Pound Interview with Two Die Hard Browns Fans.


How long have you been Browns fans?

John: The first year I actually paid attention was 1981 when I was 8 years old.  Of course it would be the year after the Kardiac Kids year.

Jennifer: Forever! I honestly can't remember not watching games. My mom said I would turn the games on myself when I was three.

Who is your all-time favorite Browns player?

John: Bernie Kosar and Clay Matthews.

Jennifer: Bernie, no question.

Did you ever get to see him play in person?

John: Yes I was fortunate enough to see both of them play in person.  I've had the opportunity to meet Bernie twice and he's a great guy.  I also met Clay at training camp in I would guess 1984.

Jennifer: Saw him play and have met him too.

What are your favorite Browns memories?

John: I have a pretty good memory for all things Browns so there are many. A few that immediately come to mind — the double OT game against the Jets in Jan. 1987. We had just fallen behind 20-10 with 4 minutes to play and I had a school project due. Thinking the game was over, my Mom and I went to the library. When we got back in the car and heard on the radio that they had won, I thought that they were joking. When we got home the grin on my Dad's face confirmed that I had missed the greatest comeback in Browns history. 

Another is the overtime win against Pittsburgh at home in 1986. Bernie hit Webster Slaughter on a bomb to win the game 37-31. Also anytime I hear one of Nev Chandler's calls I get goosebumps. He was the best and taken way too soon.

Jennifer: Maybe all the excitement of the Kardiac Kids — I had my 45 of the Twelve Days of a Cleveland Browns Christmas. I had my big Bernie poster that I would prop by the TV on Sundays. The poster is on my boys' wall now. 

I also loved watching the games on Sundays with my mom, my Grandma Heinrich, and John. 

The tailgates have been memorable. Also, getting an infant Couch jersey at my baby shower from my Godfather.

Do you support Mike Holmgren and the direction in which he is taking this team?

John: Yes. He has a proven track record and I think he'll do everything he can to bring a winner to Cleveland.

Jennifer: It's hard not to have faith, I am a Browns fan after all.

Are you satisfied with the hiring of Pat Shurmur as the head coach?

John: I'm definitely going to give him a shot. I like the fact that he's an offensive guy and that hopefully he's going to open up the passing game. If it was me, however, I would have interviewed more than just three guys. Hopefully Holmgren's knowledge of Shurmur will pay off.

Jennifer: He wasn't my first choice, but I won't judge him until I see something.

What off season move has you excited for next season?

John: With the lockout I don't think we've seen it yet. But at this point I would say bringing back Phil Dawson.

Jennifer: Not sure. I tend to wait until I see what actually hits the field.

What offseason move has you worried about next season?

John: The fact that we haven't cut Jake Delhomme yet.

Jennifer: Whether Colt McCoy is the real-deal. I thought he had moments of greatness last season and I have high hopes!

What areas do you think are of the biggest concern to the Browns for next season?

John: Definitely the defensive line and keeping Colt McCoy healthy and progressing.

Jennifer: Because we are so limited in playmakers, I think we need to stay healthy. Of course, I'm more concerned about the lockout.

Who would you like to see the Browns take with the No. 6 pick in the NFL Draft?

John: I would take Patrick Peterson in a heartbeat if he's there at 6. Yes we need DL, but I think the chances of a bust are much greater at that position. Gerard Warren anyone?

Jennifer: I think it's obvious that we still need a lot. I'm OK with a defensive player or a wide receiver. I just want us to take the best (non QB) player available.

Who are your favorite current Browns players?

John: At this point I would say Joe Haden. I love how he's showing up around town and at Cavs games. He seems like he really wants to be a part of the Cleveland community.

Jennifer: I like a few — Joe Haden, Peyton Hillis and I'm still on the Josh Cribbs bandwagon.

What makes you die-hard Browns fans?

John: I love the Browns. Half of my closet is Browns gear and I'm always looking for more. We're going into our second year of being season ticket holders. I couldn't think of a better way to spend my money and Sundays than with the Browns.

I also love the history of the Browns. I love reading about it and since 2001 I've been recording the games. I should have every win from 2001-2010 on VHS or DVD. I've also acquired many of the other wins through other collectors. 

Finally I'm instilling a love of the Browns and a hatred of all things Pittsburgh in my three children.

Jennifer: Just the love I have for the Browns. I have never considered rooting for another team (unless rooting against the Steelers counts). Even during the rough times — and there have been a lot lately — I love my Browns!

How much money would it take to get you to wear a Steelers jersey in public?

John: I don't even want to entertain that thought. The idea of it turns my stomach. I especially hate all the bandwagon fans you see around our town.

Jennifer: Can't say I could ever bring myself to do this. I hate the Steelers more than anything and I detest the black and gold.

There you have it. Real answers from a real Browns fans. Thanks sharing your thoughts, John and Jennifer, and thanks for being a Browns fans.

Are you a die-hard Browns fan? If you're reading this and your name isn't RJ, then I'm guessing you are. Visit our Facebook page or send us an e-mail and let us know if you'd like to be considered for a future Interview with a Die Hard Browns Fan.

Go Browns!