Curt Schilling offers sage advice to Johnny Manziel

The only thing Cleveland Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel asked for this holiday season is another opportunity to earn the team's starting job. That's something the Browns aren't yet willing to give their disappointing rookie, who through two NFL starts has done more to embarrass himself than establish himself. But perhaps if Manziel follows the unsolicited yet sage advice of former major league pitcher and current ESPN analyst Curt Schilling, he'll have a better chance of realizing his potential.

It all started on Christmas Eve, just one day after Manziel openly admitted that he needed to work harder and take his job more seriously if he hopes to survive in the NFL. Having apparently heard or read this, Schilling immediately took charge and tweeted a message to Manziel, which has since led to some fun responses.

Here's how it began.

Not that we've ever had to twist Schilling's arm to get his opinion.

At least Schilling acknowledges he's stepping out a bit. But hey, you can say whatever you want about some of his other random Twitter musings, including his full diatribe on evolution, this actually qualifies as good, thoughtful advice. To succeed in any profession, one must maintain focus and put forth the necessary effort.

Nailed it, Curt.

Of course, it's often difficult for young athletes to find the proper motivation. Especially those like Manziel, who's success came easily against lesser competition

To that Schilling simply says.

In other words, Manziel will have to...

That's how you bring things full circle. Well played, Twitter.

For what it's worth, Manziel has not responsded directly to Schilling via Twitter. In fact, he hasn't tweeted at all since Dec. 9. 

To be completely serious, I think we're all curious to see what will come of Manziel once he grasps the enormity of the task in front of him. Whether or not that opportunity comes in Cleveland is one question. Whether or not he proves capable is another. But it would be disappointing if his chance was squandered away by his own lack of urgency.

Get it together, Johnny.

BLS H/N: SB Nation

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Mark Townsend is a writer for Big League Stew on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at bigleaguestew@yahoo.com or follow him on Twitter! Follow @Townie813