Steelers: Three keys to victory against the Cleveland Browns

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Dec 27, 2015; Baltimore, MD, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers running back DeAngelo Williams (34) past Baltimore Ravens cornerback Lardarius Webb (21) during the fourth quarter at M&T Bank Stadium. Baltimore Ravens defeated Pittsburgh Steelers 20-17. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Run the ball

DeAngelo Williams was on a tear in the first half of Sunday’s game against the Ravens. The former Pro Bowler had more than 80 yards in the first half.

He finished with just 100 yards.

Part of the decrease in Williams’ production in the second half was a result of game flow and part of it was due to the Ravens tightening up on defense. Regardless, the Steelers were quick to abandon the running game.

While it is important for the Steelers to take shots early, maintaining a solid running game should help Pittsburgh secure a victory against Cleveland. Cleveland has the NFL’s worst run defense, which should allow Williams to go crazy. He deserves plenty of touches due to the production he has given Pittsburgh since replacing Le’Veon Bell.

The Steelers don’t have too many games left with a productive Williams. He is 32 years old and has put lots of hard miles on his body. Pittsburgh should take advantage of this while they can. In addition, running the football is the best way to attack the Browns.

In closing, the Steelers don’t have the most daunting of tasks ahead of them on Sunday. However, they cannot forget who they are and what they can do. If the Steelers fail to show up, 2015 will go down as one of the more disappointing seasons in recent memory.

City of Champions Prediction:

10. 53. 35. 55. Final

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