Romeo-isms

Browns coach Romeo Crennel was in a decidedly better mood late this morning when he spoke to media that covers the Bengals on a conference call.

-- On why the Bengals offense is slumping: "They scored 45 on us the last time. I told my guys that they better expect that this time."

-- On winning 51-45 over the Bengals in Week 2: "It was huge for us to be able to win. We lost our first one (to Pittsburgh) and not in a good way."

-- On center Hank Fraley: "He is the rock who holds it together."

-- On left guard Eric Steinbach, the former Bengals starter the Browns signed in free agency last March: "In the NFL, when you're losing, you have to try to go get good talent to help you. We played against Eric twice a year. By getting Eric, and drafting (left tackle) Joe Thomas, we've solidified that side."

The Browns are 9-5. They are in the playoffs Sunday with a victory against the Bengals.