Each week, our football staff at DK Pittsburgh Sports predicts the Steelers' result, along with sharing a few related thoughts.
For a full preview of this matchup with the Browns, check my Kickoff.
Chris Halicke (9-7): Deshaun Watson will provide a different dynamic to this rivalry. No, he won't run like Lamar Jackson, but he's dangerous enough to open up more space on defense for Nick Chubb to run wild. However, I believe the Steelers' defense can and will do enough to limit the Browns' production on the ground. Remember, this is a group that held Josh Jacobs, the NFL's leading rusher, to 2.9 yards per carry just two weeks ago. In addition, Najee Harris and the Steelers' vastly improved running game should do very well against a bad, 25th-ranked Cleveland run defense. And because the Steelers should be throwing caution to the wind as they fight for their playoff lives, I even think they'll finish a couple drives earlier than the fourth quarter. Steelers, 24-16
Matt Williamson (8-8): The Browns claim to be motivated for this game, but will they be for 60 minutes in what should be a very physical road game for Cleveland? The Steelers are playing better than Cleveland right now on both sides of the ball. Watson has struggled mightily since his return and the Browns might just be the worst run defense in the NFL. The Steelers get to 9-8. Steelers, 20-13
Ramon Foster (8-8): I've got the good guys. I've got the Steelers winning this one. It's all set up. Give me some points against that defense. And Kenny Pickett will be the reason why they score. The Browns will be able to run the ball, but I don't think they can do much about what they don't know about Pickett right now. Steelers, 24-21
Dejan Kovacevic (6-10): I’m never comfortable picking against Chubb. But then, that’ll be Mark Robinson, not Devin Bush, eager and willing to bring him down. Steelers, 19-12
Let's have your picks in the comments!
