Steelers vs Browns: Steelers playoff hopes took a major hit

The Steelers defense could not keep the momentum going against the Browns

Let’s be honest, prior to the game against the Browns, the Steelers had won four games in a row because the defense was generating turnovers, converting some of those turnovers into points and sacking the opposing QB with some alacrity.  Save one sack, the defense just ran out of steam.

The defense gave up 14 points pretty quickly, then seemed to settle down, but just could not generate the ‘splash play’ against the Browns that Steelers fans had grown accustomed to seeing.  Quite frankly, the inability to cause a turnover was the difference in the game, in my opinion.

Playing on a short week and playing on the road does not generally go well for the road team, and that was the case for the Steelers.  When it became apparent that the offense just could not get anything going, it fell to the defense to save the day.  That did not happen.

The defense did not necessarily play poorly, having allowed the Browns to amass only 293 total yards; however, when the key ingredient to the winning formula is creating turnovers, the defense has to do just that.  Alas, we were not able to do so.

I realize one loss in the last five games is still pretty darn good; however, for a team whose offense has yet to find any rhythm, the Steelers defense had to win the day; they did not, and it may have cost us a playoff spot in the process.  Again, I realize the season is not over, but if the defense has another outing similar to the one against the Browns, the season will be over for all intents and purposes.

The Steelers need to figure out how to put the loss behind them and make a run to the playoffs

One loss does not define a team; I get that; however, after digging a 1-4 hole and after winning four games in a row, the loss to the Browns felt like a significant regression of whatever momentum had been gained from the winning streak. Will the Steelers display the inner fortitude we fans expect them to present and get the momentum train back on the winning track?

I sure hope so as the remaining six games are no ‘locks,’ so to speak.  I have stated this repeatedly, and I will state it again-the offense must find a way to hold up their end of the bargain by winning games regardless of how the defense performs.  It’s really just that simple.  Play complimentary football, and all will be right in the world, at least until the next game.