Steelers vs. Browns: Writers' picks and predictions for a divisional game in Week 11
Last week proved to be another close game that came down to the wire for the Steelers. They found another win at the end of regulation, but they continued to play with fire. It has not bitten them yet, but it has been tough sledding for those hearts that cheer the team on. Green Bay is a below-average team, and it looked like the Steelers were going to run away with the game at parts of the first half.
That sadly did not happen as the offense slowed down and the defense had plenty of busted plays that resulted in the Packers getting back into the game. The defense has been dealing with injuries all year, and that lack of experience and communication is starting to haunt them. They will need every second of effective practice to correct those problems.
Things to pay close attention to as the Steelers face the Browns
Cleveland is up next for the black and gold and both have a great opportunity to pull ahead in the playoff race. The Browns are coming off a massive road win at Baltimore last week. They were able to come back and pull off the upset. It took plenty of things to swing their way and a certain will to get there. The victor of this game could be one of the top playoff contenders moving forward.
Plenty of things are going against the Browns in this one, especially after Deshaun Watson has been ruled out for the rest of the season. Dorian Thompson-Robinson will be the starter for the Browns so that will make the Steelers highly favored in this one. They normally perform well against rookie quarterbacks, but the team surrounding him is still good.
No Nick Chubb or Watson hurts, but the Browns still have a quality offensive line and the best defense in the league. Kenny Pickett and the offense will have to play a smart offensive game plan that can get down the field without turning over the football. The Browns need to establish a strong run game and not turn over the ball. That is what the difference will be in this contest.