The Pittsburgh Steelers need to win and get a little help from the Cleveland Browns to earn their way into the postseason, but Browns’ writers aren’t too confident the team will pull off a win.
It’s going to be a stressful day for Pittsburgh Steelers’ fans as their team squares off against the Cincinnati Bengals at 4:25pm EST, today. While they’ll be locked in on their team, they’ll have their phones, laptops and any other device set on the score of another AFC North matchup.
If Pittsburgh wants to find themselves in the playoffs they need help. The Baltimore Ravens currently control the division, but against a rising Browns team who has a chance to ruin their rival’s season, nothing is guaranteed.
But despite the team’s recent success and superstar quarterback, Cleveland writers aren’t certain their team will find a victory in this final week. Looking through Dawg Pound Daily, their team of contributors is split 3-3 on whether or not the Browns will beat the Ravens in Week 17.
On the winning side, they believe it comes down to Baker Mayfield and his ability to lead this team. A strong performance from their rookie quarterback and Cleveland sends Pittsburgh to the postseason, according to Casey Kinnamon.
"“Mayfield will need to take advantage of any mismatch he can exploit, and they will have to put points up on the board whenever the opportunity presents itself. The Browns have been one of the most efficient offenses in the league in terms of scoring touchdowns inside of the red zone these last seven games, but this week taking whatever you can get has to be the goal.”"
To lose, Baltimore needs to play like they would on paper. The stats, roster and injuries says Ravens, and if that team can play like they should this game won’t be as exciting for Steelers fans. When it comes down to rookie vs rookie, Cleveland doesn’t come out on top writes Randy Gurzi.
"“As for the game, it won’t be easy. This isn’t the same Baltimore team that lost 12-9 in overtime. Yes, their defense is much stronger, but they have a new quarterback in Lamar Jackson — and like the Browns with Baker Mayfield, the Ravens are winning with their rookie.”"
It’s going to be a nerve-wracking day in Pittsburgh. First thing is first, they need to pull off a win. Over an injured Bengals team, that shouldn’t be much of a problem. Then, they’ll be hoping the winning half of these predictions comes true.
Fans will be glued to the TV and their phones flipping back between games. It’s going to be a stressful afternoon, but if everything goes well, it’ll be a weekend to remember in Pittsburgh.