Hoyer starting for Browns in exhibition opener

Coach Pettine says Manziel could get some playing time against Lions Saturday.

Cleveland Browns quarterbacks Johnny Manziel, left, Brian Hoyer (6), Connor Shaw (9) and Tyler Thigpen talk during practice at NFL football training camp in Berea, Ohio today.

ASSOCIATED PRESS

Cleveland Browns quarterbacks Johnny Manziel, left, Brian Hoyer (6), Connor Shaw (9) and Tyler Thigpen talk during practice at NFL football training camp in Berea, Ohio today.

BEREA, Ohio — Browns quarterback Brian Hoyer will start the exhibition opener in Detroit, giving him the first chance to impress before rookie Johnny Manziel takes the field.

Cleveland Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel walks off the field after practice today.

Coach Mike Pettine said Hoyer has “done nothing” to have his starting job taken away during training camp.

Pettine said Manziel could get some playing time with Cleveland’s starters against the Lions on Saturday night.

Hoyer said he got a brief scare on Tuesday when his surgically repaired right knee got hit during practice. But Hoyer said the knee held up fine and that he “can’t afford” to take any time off in camp as he tries to hold off Manziel.

Manziel has grown more confident and comfortable as camp has progressed. The first-round pick has steadily improved during practice but warned he’s “got a long way to go.”