Steelers (3-3) at Browns (4-3)
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, FirstEnergy Stadium, Cleveland
TV: CBS
Tipico Sportsbook line: Browns by 3 ⁄2
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Steelers’ keys to victory: Coming off their bye week, the Steelers must be able to stop the Cleveland rushing attack. Browns RB Nick Chubb could return after missing last week’s game because of a calf injury, but RB D’Ernest Johnson showed he could carry the load as the lead back if Chubb is still out. The Steelers’ offense will have to protect QB Ben Roethlisberger to keep DEs Myles Garrett and Jadeveon Clowney from controlling the game. The Cleveland pass defense can be attacked, though.
Browns’ keys to victory: Case Keenum will need to be a good game manager if QB Baker Mayfield (shoulder) can’t go. The Cleveland offense needs a healthy line to open up holes in the run game to meet their goals. The Browns don’t need a high-powered passing attack to be successful but will need their quarterback to protect the ball. On defense, the defensive backs will have to make clean tackles in space against Steelers receivers and backs in the screen game.
Matchup to watch: Steelers WR Chase Claypool vs. Browns CB Greg Newsome II. Claypool had a paltry two receptions for 17 yards in Pittsburgh’s Week 6 victory after he piled up 130 yards in Week 5. Claypool will often line up against Cleveland’s top rookie, Newsome. The first-round pick has played well this season, but Claypool’s size, speed and catch radius will be a tough matchup for him.
Who wins? Both teams will be well rested even if they are not healthy. The Browns’ run game and pass rush at home are just a little too much for the Steelers.