Steelers vs Browns: Who the experts are taking in Week 17
Mason Rudolph has a chance to have ultimate revenge against the Cleveland Browns as they could be eliminated from playoff contention.
The Steelers have secured a division win and a playoff spot so many starters will be resting this week against a decent Browns team. Their opponent still needs to win this week to get their ticket to the playoff dance but this will be an interesting one to watch. The home team in Ohio should be able to kill the Steelers as the away team has no reason to entertain a good effort in this one except for the fiasco last year.
Ben Roethlisberger was announced to be sitting and Rudolph will be starting. This was the same person that was assaulted by Myles Garrett last year as the Steelers season was dwindling to an 8-8 record. Now the black and yellow have the motivation to win and unleash the best revenge possible on their rival and knock them out of the playoffs.
This is a much-improved Browns team since the last time Pittsburgh blew them out at Heinz Field. It would be a very tough game to win but it’s not entirely out of the realm of possibility.
Who the experts have winning this week 17 matchup
Three expert sites were chosen that include CBS Sports, Sporting News, and SB Nation. Out of 13 picks total, only two have the Steelers winning this game. Mike Tomlin’s team are severe underdogs in every aspect but stranger upsets have happened. It is in Cleveland’s blood to lose a game like this and miss the playoffs. It would not be surprising if they blew this opportunity.
It will be very difficult for the black and yellow to leave Ohio with a victory especially with many of their starters being rested. It will take turnovers and great execution of play calling to beat this Browns team. The motivation should be there to beat them with how everything turned out with the Rudolph and Garrett situation but this game will hopefully be a clean and quick one. It is a preseason type matchup for the Steelers as their opponents fight for their playoff lives.
Do not be surprised if this is a much closer game than many are expecting it to be. The Steelers will probably lose this game but it should be a closer outcome than expected. It is the Browns way to lose so it’s possible they lose this game, that’s why games are played.
Prediction: Steelers 17, Browns 23 (OT)
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It should be a relaxing game for Steelers fans to watch if they enjoy watching preseason games. Many backups will have the opportunity to show the coaches what they have to offer on the field this Sunday.