3 Steelers X-Factors for Sunday’s rematch against Browns

CLEVELAND, OHIO - NOVEMBER 14: Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Cleveland Browns delivers a pass over the defense of outside linebacker T.J. Watt #90 of the Pittsburgh Steelers at FirstEnergy Stadium on November 14, 2019 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OHIO - NOVEMBER 14: Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Cleveland Browns delivers a pass over the defense of outside linebacker T.J. Watt #90 of the Pittsburgh Steelers at FirstEnergy Stadium on November 14, 2019 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)
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PITTSBURGH, PA – OCTOBER 28: Minkah Fitzpatrick #39 of the Pittsburgh Steelers intercepts a pass throw by Ryan Fitzpatrick #14 of the Miami Dolphins in the third quarter during the game at Heinz Field on October 28, 2019 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images)
PITTSBURGH, PA – OCTOBER 28: Minkah Fitzpatrick #39 of the Pittsburgh Steelers intercepts a pass throw by Ryan Fitzpatrick #14 of the Miami Dolphins in the third quarter during the game at Heinz Field on October 28, 2019 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images)

Minkah Fitzpatrick

Ever since the Steelers acquired Minkah Fitzpatrick, he has been all over the field. He consistently fills up the stat sheet with tackles, pass breakups, interceptions, defensive touchdowns, and forced fumbles. However, if you look at his game log versus Cleveland two weeks ago all you will see is “2.” Fitzpatrick had two tackles in the last meeting with the Browns; that was it.

Fitzpatrick is an all-world talent, and the Steelers are going to need him to be all over the field on Sunday. Baker Mayfield is not afraid of any throw, regardless of how tight a window might be. He is confident in his arm, as well as in his receivers. Mayfield averages four shots downfield per game, meaning the ball will be in the air long enough for a ball-hawking safety to use his range.

Fitzpatrick is going to have his opportunities to make plays once it is in the air; especially if the Steelers pass rush pressures Mayfield.

Schedule