Cleveland Browns vs. Pittsburgh Steelers: Preview, Prediction, TV Info and more
By Matt Shetler
Keys for Browns:
1. Force turnovers: It’s as simple as if the Browns don’t find a way to force a few Roethlisberger mistakes, they have little chance of winning. By turning a couple turnovers into points, the Browns can play spoiler for the Steelers playoff hopes.
Dec 8, 2013; Foxborough, MA, USA; Cleveland Browns wide receiver Josh Gordon (12) runs with the ball during the fourth quarter against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Browns 27-26. Mandatory Credit: Stew Milne-USA TODAY Sports
2. Contain Antonio Brown: The Browns normally would have a good matchup here with Joe Haden locked up on Brown. But with Haden listed as questionable and the game having little meaning for Cleveland, the Browns usually strong secondary may not be at 100 percent. If Brown is able to continue his record setting season and make a few big plays along the way, it will be tough for Cleveland to compete.
3. Pull out all the stops: This game has very little impact on the Browns season, but keeping Pittsburgh out of the playoffs would be a nice ending. That being said, I would expect Cleveland to empty the playbook and throw every piece of razzle dazzle they have at the Steelers on Sunday. Why not?
Key Matchup: Ike Taylor vs. Josh Gordon
The one bright spot in the Browns loss to Pittsburgh the first time around was the play of Josh Gordon, who had 14 catches for 237 yards — 166 of which came once Brandon Weeden relieved Jason Campbell.
Gordon has had 813 yards in the past five weeks- 290 more than any other receiver in the NFL- with a stunning 479 coming after the catch.
Taylor, who usually draws the opposition’s best receiver will have his hands full. If he and the Steelers’ secondary allow Gordon to make some big plays, it could turn into a long day.
Prediction: I just like where this Steelers team is at right now. The offense should be able to put up a lot of points and I just don’t think the Browns can do enough to pull off the upset. The Steelers win and watch the scoreboard hoping for help. Steelers 31, Browns 17