Intriguing Game- Week Six
Cleveland Browns at Pittsburgh Steelers
Browns: They’ve won four in a row. You read that correctly! I understand the last few years have been rough for them because they’ve struggled significantly. This year alone, I see a football team that fights, gives 110 percent on the field, and finishes plays. It’s a history lesson time. The Cleveland Browns are 4-1 for the first time since 1994. Back then, a man named Bill Belichick was the head coach. So far, I’ve seen them look sharp on both sides of the ball. Baker Mayfield may not be at the top of the elite quarterback conversation, but he’s managed this offense with efficiency. They balance things out which is why the passing game has been so successful. The Browns defense has also been consistent in coverage, stops, and takeaways. I’m glad to see them doing well. They’ll get a challenge on Sunday.
Steelers: Isn’t it hard to believe that this is their first 4-0 start with Ben Roethlisberger? They were able to get to that record after another win against the Philadelphia Eagles in week five. It’s been so good to see Ben back on the field. When you see a guy who has command of the offense, everything clicks. The Steelers have a knack for drafting wide receivers it appears. Antonio Brown fell into their laps in 2010. Remember? Now, Chase Claypool is beginning to pay off. During the Summer, I said he was a dark horse for Offensive Rookie of the Year. He scored four touchdowns in week five. Everything is flowing for them. They play hard for Mike Tomlin which is all you can ask for. When the legendary teams are doing well, it’s good for the league. A different Browns team comes to town on Sunday.
Browns X-Factor: Austin Hooper– This is another weapon at Baker Mayfield’s disposal. He knows when Odell or Jarvis Landry are shut down, Austin is sitting in the middle of the field just waiting for his. He’s the safety valve every quarterback needs in their life.
Steelers X-Factor: Bud Dupree– He’s the energy guy for this Steelers defense. Along with T.J. Watt, they have become one of the best defensive tandems in the NFL. Bud has the speed to come around the edge to get to the quarterback. I can’t wait to see how the Browns prepare for this Steelers defensive front.
Final Analysis: This is a big game. Of course, the helmet incident took place last year when they met. This will be another good defense the Browns will see for the second straight week. Baker must take care of the football. This is a defense you don’t want to turn the ball over too. The Steelers need to tighten things up in the secondary. I saw some holes exposed against Philly. This should be a physical one.
Prediction: Steelers 27 Browns 24
