After a big win over the Bengals on Sunday, the Steelers now turn their attention to a crucial rematch against the Browns, seeking redemption from their loss to Cleveland two weeks ago. A victory this weekend would be a significant step toward contending for the AFC North title. To avoid a season sweep by Cleveland, the Steelers must craft a game plan to counter these key Browns players effectively.
QB, Jameis Winston
Jameis Winston made key plays against the Steelers, and his gritty performance was a driving force behind the Browns' victory. To make the Browns' offense one-dimensional, the Steelers will need to generate a strong pass rush and force a couple of turnovers.
While they managed to intercept Winston last time, his aggressive play style means Pittsburgh's secondary will need to significantly improve after being shredded by Joe Burrow. The Steelers will need to tighten up their coverage and elevate their defensive play to have a better chance in this matchup.
RB, Nick Chubb
Nick Chubb found the end zone twice in the last matchup, though he didn’t rack up huge yardage on the ground. With a player of Chubb's caliber, a breakout performance feels imminent. After a rough start to their run defense against Cincinnati, the Steelers made adjustments and improved in the second half.
If Pittsburgh can't sustain that level of run defense for all four quarters, they could be in for a long day trying to stop the Browns' ground game.
T, Jack Conklin
Jack Conklin managed to keep TJ Watt in check last time, but it's going to be tough to replicate that performance. While it’s unlikely Conklin will have the same success again, this time I expect Watt will be moved around more, rather than staying on one side for the entire game.
The Browns executed a solid game plan to limit Watt previously but look for the Steelers to adjust and create more opportunities to free him up.
DE, Myles Garrett
Myles Garrett had a dominant performance against the Steelers, recording 3 sacks, and no matter what the Steelers threw at him, it had little effect. Their efforts to contain him fell short, and if they don’t improve their plan to neutralize him next time, their tackles will be in for a major challenge.