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5 Bold predictions for Cleveland Browns vs. the Steelers

By Greg Newland

Dec 1, 2019; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Cleveland Browns linebacker Mack Wilson (51) looks over the Pittsburgh Steelers offense at the line of scrimmage during the fourth quarter at Heinz Field. Pittsburgh won 20-13. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 1, 2019; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Cleveland Browns linebacker Mack Wilson (51) looks over the Pittsburgh Steelers offense at the line of scrimmage during the fourth quarter at Heinz Field. Pittsburgh won 20-13. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /
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Cleveland Browns
Dec 14, 2020; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Browns wide receiver Jarvis Landry (80) steps out of the back of the end zone for a safety to end the game against the Baltimore Ravens at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Galvin-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Health a factor

This is the NFL, so you can’t use injuries as an excuse for losing. However, there is no doubt the Browns having their top four receivers, left tackle, middle linebacker, and safety back this week will make all the difference in the world.

There is a chance that the close contact COVID-19 inactives from Sunday could end up testing positive, but with NFL protocols being so tight it looks like Jarvis Landry, Rashard Higgins, Donovan Peoples-Jones, KhaDarel Hodge, and Jacob Phillips should be off the COVID-19 list on Wednesday or Thursday of this week.

Jedrick Wills was out with sickness (non-COVID related) and he as well should be back as the starting left tackle.  The two big question marks remain safety Ronnie Harrison and right guard Wyatt Teller. Why it appears Harrison should have a shot to go after practicing last week, Teller still could be a longshot.

Harrison will be a huge addition to the defense, but Teller missing another game could be crucial with Cameron Hayward lining up on the other side. Rookie Nick Harris did okay vs. the Giants but was manhandled most of the game vs. the Jets on Sunday.

Knowing the importance of the game, look for everybody who missed last week to give it a shot, but it’s tough to say how effective they will be. Teller is so crucial to the offensive line, just his presence could be enough to lift the entire group up. There’s no doubt that Mayfield will be thrilled to have his receivers back.

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