As excitement builds for the first Steelers vs. Browns matchup of the season, this primetime Thursday Night Football clash carries added intrigue. Road division games on short weeks have historically been a thorn in Mike Tomlin’s side—he’s yet to win one.
With the rivalry taking center stage and the game being played in Cleveland, the challenge looms large for Pittsburgh.
However, the Steelers enter this matchup riding a five-game winning streak, presenting an opportunity to break this frustrating trend. To keep their momentum alive and stack another victory, the team must focus on these three critical keys to success.
Steelers must put an end to red zone struggles
Since Russell Wilson took over as the Steelers' starting quarterback, his red zone performance has been a major issue. Statistically, he's been among the NFL's worst QBs in this critical area, and the Steelers rank 30th in red zone scoring.
This has to improve quickly. Despite going 0-for-4 in the red zone against the Ravens, Pittsburgh escaped with a win. However, that kind of inefficiency won’t hold up against stronger opponents as the season continues.
The Steelers rank 30th in red zone scoring this season, recording touchdowns on just 44.4% of trips. In the last three weeks, that rate is second-worst in the league at 25%.
— Brooke Pryor (@bepryor) November 18, 2024
The only team with a lower TD scoring percentage in that stretch? Cleveland (16.67%).
Facing Cleveland, the Steelers must capitalize on red zone opportunities and convert drives into touchdowns. Success will hinge on better execution on first downs to avoid unmanageable situations and improved play design—route spacing has been a glaring problem.
Cleveland provides a solid chance for the Steelers to turn things around, build confidence, and set a better tone moving forward.
Lean on the ground game in challenging weather conditions
The weather could play a significant role in Thursday’s matchup, with forecasts predicting cold, rainy, and windy conditions—ideal for the Steelers’ offensive identity. Pittsburgh’s offense is built around a strong running game, and this contest will likely come down to which team runs the ball more effectively.
Dominating the line of scrimmage will be crucial, and Pittsburgh's offensive line has recently excelled in run blocking, consistently mauling defenders on the ground.
Play aggressively and avoid underestimating an inferior opponent
Playing on short weeks is always challenging, especially after a physically demanding game like Sunday’s matchup against the Ravens. There's concern that the Steelers could come out flat after such a tough contest.
The Browns, with nothing left to play for, would love to spoil Pittsburgh's strong start by handing them a loss. The Steelers need to treat this game like serious business, showing everyone in primetime what a true contender does to inferior teams. If Pittsburgh wants to prove they’re serious title contenders, they need to do it from the very start.
The Steelers need to get off to a hot start and not take their foot off the gas. Make this a statement game by being a complete team and dominating all three phases.