Cleveland Browns vs. Steelers: 4 match-ups to watch
Nov 8, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers running back DeAngelo Williams (34) runs the ball against the Oakland Raiders during the third quarter at Heinz Field. The Steelers won 38-35. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Stopping the run has been the biggest challenge the Browns defense has faced all season.
Even though Pro Bowl running back Le’Veon Bell is out for the remainder of the season with a torn MCL, that hasn’t stopped the Pittsburgh offense from having a successful rushing attack as 32-year-old DeAngelo Williams has done an excellent job filling in for Bell.
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Williams, who spent nine seasons with Carolina before signing this offseason with Pittsburgh, has been a great insurance policy for the Pittsburgh offense, rushing for 480 yards and five rushing touchdowns. Last week against Oakland, which has the seventh-best run defense in the NFL, Williams ran for 170 yards and two touchdowns.
The Steelers will rely heavily on Williams and the run game with Jones getting the start over Roethlisberger. Pittsburgh will want to set the tone early with a heavy run attack and give Jones, who will be making just his second NFL start, manageable situations.
The Browns need to put the pressure all on Jones to make plays and this starts with stopping the run up front.