Terry’s Talkin’

By Terry Pluto, Cleveland.com

Cleveland.com and Plain Dealer columnist Terry Pluto talks Browns, Cavaliers, Guardians and Northeast Ohio college basketball with host David Campbell.... more

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FAQs about Terry’s Talkin’:

How many episodes does Terry’s Talkin’ have?

The podcast currently has 194 episodes available.

Terry’s Talkin’ episodes:

October 14, 2025Is Kevin Stefanski's job on the line? 1 move the Guardians should make ASAP
Highlights:
Terry shares a “moment of wisdom” about venting in emails: tone and humor are lost compared to spoken conversation.

Discussion on Browns’ offensive struggles against the Steelers: 82 snaps, Quinshon Judkins only played 33 despite being top offensive weapon.

Browns ran only 17 times for 65 yards, despite game being close early; heavy reliance on passing (27 passes vs. 11 runs in first three quarters).

Missed opportunities: Judkins absent on key goal-line plays; lack of creativity like play-action fakes.

Terry suggests Kevin Stefanski looks “shell-shocked” by offensive failures; quotes Stefanski: “Before you start winning, you’ve got to stop losing.”

Offensive line woes highlighted: aging starters (Teller, Bitonio, Pocic, Conklin all 30+); poor Pro Football Focus grades (best was 64.7).

Listener email proposes 2026 offseason rebuild: draft tackles, replace veterans,.

Receiver issues: Jerry Jeudy drops (7 in 6 games) and costly penalties; Fannin also had key drops despite flashes of talent.

Gabriel sacked six times, hit 16 times; Browns threw 58 times including sacks—offensive imbalance and protection failures.

Debate on ownership accountability: email argues Haslams should sell; Terry counters owners rarely sell, especially after stadium deal.

Terry plugs new book: Why Can’t This Team Find a Quarterback? covering Browns’ QB struggles since 1999 and ownership dynamics.

Mike Tomlin’s reaction to Browns trading Joe Flacco to Bengals: “shocking”; Terry and David analyze implications and AFC North competitiveness.

Browns’ strategy likened to Guardians’ “thread the needle” approach—trying to win while developing young players; trade rumors hinted.

Positive draft notes: Judkins, Fannin, Schwesinger praised; Tyson Campbell trade seen as promising despite questionable usage vs. DK Metcalf.

Special teams bright spot: rookie kicker Andre Szmyt solid after rough opener (3-for-3 in Pittsburgh).
Guardians offseason priorities: extend José Ramírez again, pursue right-handed power bat, consider Stephen Kwan’s future contract.

Cavs preview: season opens Oct. 22; focus on pace, bench depth, unlocking Mobley and Hunter; injury concerns for Garland and Lonzo Ball.

Faith column reflections: Terry shares story on visiting graves and human moments in sports.

And a closing email from a listener who says baseball isn't the only sport without a clock and with lots of drama.

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1h 10min
October 07, 2025So long, Joe; how Kevin Stefanski can help this offense; 'wasting' the careers of MLB stars?
Highlights:
Discussion on Browns' quarterback situation and Joe Flacco trade to Bengals.

Concerns over Browns' offensive struggles and inability to score 20+ points.

Debate on Kevin Stefanski's future and offensive play-calling decisions.

Analysis of Browns' wide receiver performance and lack of support for quarterbacks.

Evaluation of Dylan Gabriel's performance and potential as starting QB.

Criticism of Browns' offensive strategy and use of top players in key situations.

Listener email on Myles Garrett's MVP candidacy and defensive performance.

Breakdown of Browns' penalties and coaching discipline issues.

Discussion on Browns' upcoming game against Pittsburgh and quarterback depth.

Commentary on Bill Belichick's struggles in college coaching at North Carolina.

Guardians' season wrap-up and front office's approach to team building.

Debate on whether teams are 'wasting' star players' careers (e.g., Jose Ramirez, Aaron Judge).

Guardians' pitching success post-suspensions and future roster considerations.

Listener emails on Guardians' lineup decisions and player development.

Cavs preseason updates and expectations for faster pace and player roles.

LeBron James' whiskey ad and its reception among fans.

Should MLB players shake hands after a playoff series?

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1h 8min
September 29, 2025Why the 2025 Guardians are like nothing we've ever seen; time for a Browns QB change?
Highlights:
Cleveland sports had a wild week, with dramatic Guardians wins and unexpectedly large home crowds.

Jose Ramirez’s playoff consistency contrasts with Francisco Lindor’s limited postseason success since joining the Mets.

Jose’s commitment to Cleveland shows in his extension and emotional postgame celebration declaring “This is my home.”

Terry Francona’s magic continues with the Reds, despite their lack of standout stats or star players.

Stephen Vogt’s appeal to fans shows his understanding of Cleveland’s working-class culture and school-night realities.

Guardians pulled off a historic comeback, overcoming a 15.5-game deficit to win the division.

The team’s resilience recalls the 1914 Boston Braves, who rallied from 15 games back to win.

Guardians starters had a streak of 19 games allowing two or fewer runs, a rare achievement.

Baseball’s unpredictability and “never over until it’s over” nature make it a unique test of faith.

Progressive Field’s renovations helped attract younger fans, blending tradition with modern fan experiences.

Guardians reached 2 million in attendance for back-to-back years, a milestone for a small-market team.

Chase DeLauter joins the playoff taxi squad, signaling potential late-season impact if needed.

Aidan Hutchinson was left in one-on-one matchups 17 times against Browns swing tackle Cornelius Lucas?.
Quinshon Judkins and Harold Fannin Jr. were praised for their impact, especially Judkins’ ability to turn short gains into longer runs.
Only one solid performance in four games; a touchdown was allowed on special teams against Detroit.

There’s reluctance to reintegrate Watson despite his eligibility to return, with comparisons to awkward social encounters.

Both hosts agreed that starting Gabriel wouldn’t solve deeper offensive issues and could expose him to unnecessary risk.
Lonzo Ball expressed surprise that Cleveland had water (Lake Erie), highlighting how little some players know about the city before arriving.

Cavs media day injury updates on Darius Garland and Max Strus.

Uniform Talk: Mixed reactions to the Browns’ “Alpha Dawg” uniforms. Some fans loved them, others (including Terry) did not.

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1h 3min
September 24, 2025What's behind the Guardians' surge; changing field goals forever; Cavs set the stage
Highlights:
The Guardians were down 15.5 games in July and 12.5 games in late August but are now on the verge of overtaking the Tigers. How have they done this?
Terry noted the Tigers’ collapse could be historic, while the Guardians risk losing momentum at the finish line.

Terry contends the Guardians' defensive improvement coincided with Brayan Rocchio moving to second base and Gabriel Arias to shortstop.
José Ramírez rebounded from a rough April and is back to playing B+/A- level defense
Bo Naylor’s September surge (.306 AVG, 3 HR, 14 RBI in 14 games) has been a game-changer.

Terry speculated Naylor may have finally found the right adjustments after years of tinkering.

Listener Max emailed about the Guardians’ momentum, arguing that being red-hot matters more than being the best team on paper, and how far could they go in the playoffs?
The Browns’ defense is elite, ranking #1 in yards allowed and #2 in yards per play allowed.

The offense is middle-of-the-pack in yards and yards per play, suggesting it’s not as bad as perceived.
The Browns’ tackle situation is dire, with Dawand Jones out for the season and Jack Conklin injured.

Should the Browns use Adin Huntington as a blocking tight end to help protect Joe Flacco?

Quinshon Judkins could see more snaps due to his blocking ability and versatility.

Is it time to move field goal kickers back to 9-10 yards to reduce blocks? Terry loves the idea.
The Cavs' Kenny Atkinson and Koby Altman previewed the season, and Terry last the latest, including on the injuries to Max Strus and Darius Garland.

Garland’s injury is likely turf toe, with a return timeline of 10–20 games.

Atkinson praised rookie Jaylon Tyson’s intensity and potential impact.

The Cavs have won the third-most games in the NBA over the last three years, behind only Boston and OKC.

Their core four (Mobley, Allen, Garland, Mitchell) are all under multi-year contracts and entering their prime.

Atkinson wants to unlock more of Evan Mobley’s ball-handling ability to counter pressure defenses.
Seven of the 15 players on the roster were second-round picks or undrafted. Why that matters.

A listener email about the Browns' uniforms against the Packers. He hates them. Send in your favorite or most hated uniforms and we'll read them on the podcast.

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1h 8min
September 16, 2025How the Guardians are hanging tough; What if Baker Mayfield had stayed with the Browns?
Highlights:
The Guardians are still in playoff contention despite injuries and setbacks.

Terry reflects on decades of poor performance by the team before the 1990s.

Since 2013, under Terry Francona, the Guardians have had only two losing seasons.

Stephen Vogt has matched Francona’s win total through his first 310 games.

The team’s consistent competitiveness is often underappreciated by fans.

Guardians are three games out of the wild card with 13 games left.

Terry praises MLB’s expanded playoff format for keeping more teams relevant.

Guardians’ pitching depth continues to be a strength despite injuries.

Terry discusses the impact of trades, especially the one involving Mike Clevinger.

Austin Hedges is praised for his leadership and handling of pitchers, despite poor hitting.

Terry supports the six-man rotation as a way to preserve pitchers’ arms.

Parker Messick leads the team in ERA; other young pitchers are contributing well.

Jose Ramirez is lauded for his leadership and playing through injuries.

Brian Rocchio’s move to second base has improved the infield defense.

Terry suggests Travis Bazzana could be moved to the outfield to keep Rocchio at second.

The Guardians’ remaining schedule includes games against Detroit, Minnesota, and Texas.

Terry and David transition to discussing the Browns’ embarrassing loss to the Ravens.

Joe Flacco struggled, and the game plan didn’t help; coaching decisions are questioned.

Injuries and poor performance from high-paid players like Jack Conklin and Denzel Ward are highlighted.

Terry defends Myles Garrett’s performance amid fan criticism.

Browns’ defense ranks seventh in limiting explosive plays; Packers rank first.

Concerns raised about offensive play-calling and lack of deception.

Terry warns against rushing to bench Flacco after one bad game.

Baker Mayfield’s resurgence with Tampa Bay sparks debate about his time in Cleveland.

Terry believes the Browns mishandled Baker’s injury and departure.

The Watson trade is described as a franchise-altering decision with long-term consequences.

Terry and David discuss the Cavs’ offseason workouts and injury challenges.
Cavs aim to improve endurance and toughness to match teams like Indiana and OKC.

Terry shares insights on player rotations and injury recovery strategies.

The podcast wraps with listener emails about sports nicknames and historical anecdotes.

Terry mentions his column on Antietam and reflections on historical figures like Jesse Reno.

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1h 9min
September 09, 2025The Browns' debut, good and bad; Mr. Tuesday vs. Mr. Sunday; why Brayan Rocchio's different
Highlights:
Defense Shines: The Browns' defense was the standout, with strong halftime adjustments by Schwartz.

Flacco’s Performance: Joe Flacco ran the offense effectively, showing poise despite his age.

Rookie Impact: Harold Fannin Jr. and Dylan Sampson contributed significantly in short-passing schemes.

Greg Newsome’s Contract Year: Newsome had a strong showing against a top-tier receiving corps.

Carson Schwesinger’s Debut: The rookie linebacker posted 8 tackles and a 90.0 PFF grade.

Quinshon Judkins Signed: His aggressive running style is expected to elevate the Browns’ ground game.

Flacco’s Interceptions: Both were considered “safe” throws, not poor decisions.

Offensive Line Concerns: Jack Conklin’s durability and performance are worries.

Dawand Jones Struggles: Four penalties and poor grading raise questions about his readiness.

Lack of Takeaways: The Browns again failed to force turnovers, continuing last season’s trend.

Andre Szmyt’s Debut: Strong start but missed two key kicks in the second half.

Historical Perspective: Terry discusses past Browns kickers and the evolution of expectations.

Potential new kickers for the Browns

Phil Dawson’s Legacy: Compared to current standards, Dawson’s early career stats wouldn’t cut it today.

Kicker Turnover: Since 2020, the Browns have cycled through eight kickers; 15 since Dawson left in 2012.

Guardians Still Fighting: Despite two major losing streaks, they remain in playoff contention.

Brian Rocchio’s Growth: Improved batting average and elite defense at second base.

Kyle Manzardo’s Emergence: Batting .281 with 10 HRs since the All-Star break; improving defensively.

2024 MLB Draft Class Check-In: Updates on Travis Bazzana and other top picks.

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1h 1min
September 03, 2025Why the Browns will win Sunday; season predictions; the Guardians' tough offseason ahead
Highlights:
Our Browns predictions -- for this season, and for Sunday's opener vs. the Bengals.

Uncertainty around Quinshon Judkins due to contract and legal issues.

Joe Flacco will start; here's what that might look like;

The Browns' emphasis on returning to zone blocking and balanced offense.

Concerns about secondary injuries, especially Denzel Ward.

A listener presents a scenario: How good would the Browns be with Joe Burrow at QB?

Critique of past offensive schemes and coaching missteps.

Why new OL coach Mike Bloomgren and a return to zone blocking will matter when the Browns win Sunday (as both Terry and David predict).

The Micah Parsons trade compared to Browns retaining Myles Garrett.

Browns aim to stay competitive without full rebuild.

Terry's take on Arch Manning, and Bill Belichick.

Could the kicking game give the Browns 2-3 more wins? A listener wonders.

The continued impact of suspensions to Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz.

Underperformance of young position players.

Prospects watch: Kyle Manzardo, Angel Martinez, Ralphy Velazquez, Josh Hartle, and Cooper Ingle.

Travis Bazzana: A listener sends in a feel-good story.

A listener email about some of his favorite Cleveland sports nicknames of years past.

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1h 15min
August 26, 2025What Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders need; some Guardians dugout drama; bring back great sports nicknames
Highlights:
Browns cut day: Key decisions and their impact on the roster.

Terry's take on the kicking situation now that the Browns have cut Dustin Hopkins.

Inside the Browns' roster moves and Guardians' struggles.

Discussing Kenny Pickett's trade to the Raiders and its implications.

Exploring how gambling affects players and teams.

Terry Pluto on the Browns' need for a reliable kicker.

Share Browns predictions for 2025: Email us at [email protected], and put "Terry's Talkin'" in the subject line.

How will the Browns' QB room work with Joe Flacco and two rookies.
Guardians' losing streak: What it means for the season.

Why the Rays couldn't have come to town at a worse time for the Guardians and their fans.

Listener emails about the investigation of Luis Ortiz and Emmanuel Clase, and the future of sports gambling and its implications.

A listener says it's time to bring back great sports nicknames.

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1h 13min
August 19, 2025What this Joe Flacco offense might look like; Brayan Rocchio vs. Andrés Giménez; 'winning trades'
Highlights:
Discussion on Joe Flacco being named the Browns' starting quarterback. Insights into the Browns' strategy and decision-making process. Analysis of player performances and expectations for the season.

What will the Flacco offense look like in 2025?

Discussion on the Guardians' strategy of rotating players in different positions.

Terry's quick look at Guardians prospects.

A debate: Is Brayan Rocchio as good as Andres Gimenez right now? And how does he compare to 2023 Gimenez?

Who Jaylon Tyson of the Cavs is drawing comparisons to.

A listener email about "winning trades" and whether wishing ill of players who go to other teams is bad karma.

Subscribe to Terry's weekly newsletter for exclusive insights and updates. Visit cleveland.com/pluto and click the blue bar at the top to sign up.

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1h 15min
August 12, 2025The Guardians' ace; Does Steven Kwan need a break? What's up with Shedeur Sanders
This episode covers the Guardians' playoff prospects, insights from the Browns' preseason games, and a quick look at what Terry's hearing about the Cavs. Plus, delve into the world of sports journalism and enjoy a historical book recommendation.
Highlights:
Analysis of the Guardians' recent performance and playoff chances. Discussion on key players like Gavin Williams and their impact on the team's success. Insights into the team's strategy and upcoming games against Miami and the Braves.

Recap of the Browns' preseason game against the Panthers. Shedeur Sanders' impressive debut and what it means for the team's future. The importance of preseason games in preparing for the regular season.

Discussion on the team's roster changes and key players to watch. Insights into the team's strategy for the upcoming season.

The role of sports journalists in shaping public perception. Reflections on the camaraderie and competition among sports writers. A look at the history of sports journalism in Cleveland.

"Midnight on the Potomac" by Scott Ellsworth. A captivating narrative of the last year of the Civil War and the Lincoln assassination. Insights into the historical context and the author's unique perspective.

Subscribe to Terry's newsletter for exclusive insights at cleveland.com/pluto.

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1h 13min

FAQs about Terry’s Talkin’:

How many episodes does Terry’s Talkin’ have?

The podcast currently has 194 episodes available.

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