BROWNS (1-14) VS. STEELERS (10-5)
SUNDAY, 1 P.M. ET, HEINZ FIELD, PITTSBURGH uTV: CBS, DIRECTV 709
Announcers: Kevin Harlan, Rich Gannon About the Browns: There was much rejoicing last week as the San Diego Chargers missed a field goal attempt as time expired and the Browns won for the first time this season. They lost another quarterback as
(concussion) was forced out of his fourth start. All signs point to rookie QB
who has suffered two concussions this season, starting the season finale. The Browns finally established the run last week and RB ran for two touchdowns. For the Browns to have any shot, they’ll need to run the ball well again and have the defense turn in its best effort of the season. The defense has been better over the last several games; the Browns just don’t have enough talent on either side of the ball to keep up with the league’s best teams.
About the Steelers: Winners of six in a row, the Steelers have clinched the AFC North and a playoff spot. They could end up holding QB out of this game, though it’s more likely that he will play a few series early. When the Steelers are clicking, they have one of the NFL’s best offenses, and the late heroics of RB and WR
saved the day in last weekend’s wild win against the Baltimore Ravens. But the season really turned when Roethlisberger got healthy and the defense started playing better. The Steelers have big-stage experience, a veteran offensive line and a proven quarterback, and if LB
LB and DE are healthy and productive, they can think about making a sustained January run. S Eli Rogers had four catches for 84 yards in the Steelers’ win against the Ravens.
Thomas is headed to his 10th consecutive Pro Bowl with Cleveland. Harrison is back in the Pittsburgh starting lineup two years after announcing his retirement, and he’s playing at a high level. Thomas and Harrison know each other well and always bring their A games regardless of the stakes.
WHO WILL WIN AND WHY
Rogers lost his rookie season to injury and found himself buried on the depth chart for much of this season. But he has performed well when given opportunities, and his big game against the Ravens proves that Roethlisberger trusts him. Injury issues at the position opened the door for Rogers to get more snaps, and if he can make big plays, he can play himself into the team’s future.
The Browns have won at Heinz Field once, and that was in 2003, the third season the stadium was open. The Browns have fired three coaches after losses at Heinz Field.
KEYS TO THE GAME
1. Straight ahead: The Browns need Crowell to chew up yardage and game time in the running game. The Steelers are always at their best when their running game wears out opposing defenses and sets up vertical shots in the passing game.
2. Don’t wait: The Steelers don’t want the Browns sustaining any momentum from last week or thinking they can steal this one late. The best way to keep the crowd in the game and accelerate the Browns’ season-ending plans is to get off to a strong start.
3. Stay poised: Kessler is learning the NFL, improving his game and trying to make a career for himself. Not much will come easy in this game, but even if the Browns don’t win, it’s imperative that Kessler maintain composure and keep trying to make plays throughout the game.
Zac Jackson