Cleveland Browns: Keys to season finale in Pittsburgh

In the end, the Browns can’t overthink this matchup. Yes, they have a significant disadvantage in almost every area, but with aggressiveness and smart coaching, this can be overcome.

Offensively, this means making sure that there are enough offensive linemen to block Pittsburgh’s pass rushers. Since the Steelers are vulnerable in pass coverage, they will most certainly try to bring loads of pressure against a young offensive line. In the last meeting featuring these two teams, the Steelers abused quarterback Cody Kessler by sending a delayed blitz on almost every play. Since the Browns weren’t prepared, this gave Pittsburgh a free rusher.

In order to respond to this, the Browns have no choice but to add an extra offensive lineman or tight end to the line of scrimmage. Forcing better matchups in pass protection instead of leaving the running backs out to dry is the best way to open up the passing game.

The same goes for Cleveland’s defense in their effort to manufacture pass rush. Even if it creates a mismatch in the secondary, bringing one more rusher than Pittsburgh can block for is an aggressive move that the Browns should incorporate in blitzing situations. Against an offense like Pittsburgh, making them uncomfortable is the only way the Browns can slow them down. It may be risky, but well calculated aggressive moves such as these will pay off more often than not.

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The Browns come into Pittsburgh as six-point underdogs even without three of the Steelers’ top players. In order for them to pull this one off, they will need to stay focused and disciplined, come out with intensity, and play aggressive all throughout. If Cleveland follows these five keys, a stunning second victory is not out of the realm of possibility.