4 biggest causes of concern Steelers vs. Browns in Week 18

Return of Roethlisberger

For some reason, this week seems like a perfect storm for the Steelers’ offense to regress to how they were playing a few weeks ago. With the Browns struggling through COVID, the team may opt to focus on protecting Ben Roethlisberger by having the offense play with lackluster short passing plays. Everyone saw how well that worked when the Steelers lost three games straight, and if the team opts for this offense, it will likely be a disaster this week.

While Roethlisberger certainly has his limitations, he should be well-rested and healthier than he has been in weeks. As well, if the Colts game was any inclination, he can still run an offense that pushes the ball deep down the field. His passes aren’t perfect, and his arm strength isn’t what it used to be, but the team can’t be afraid to push this ball deep on the Browns.

To put it simply, if the Steelers try to use the offense that failed them earlier in the year, they will not beat the Browns no matter how many of their players are out with COVID. Instead, the team should stick to what has worked recently. While the passing game will still be the central focus, mix in a couple of deep shots and work over the intermediate part of the field. That offense worked, and it almost beat the Browns last week despite the Steelers resting their starters. They need to use it again this week.