5 Bold predictions for Cleveland Browns vs. the Steelers

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 27, 2020; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett (95) knocks the arm of New York Jets quarterback Sam Darnold (14) while throwing the ball during the half half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Garrett proves his worth

Defensive end Myles Garrett continues to be as dominant of a pass rusher as any in the league. After receiving a massive extension this offseason, Garrett has not disappointed with 12 sacks in 13 games. Remember, Garrett did miss two games because of contracting the COVID-19 virus.

While the pass rush has been tremendous, Garrett is still establishing himself as an elite run defender. Truthfully, that’s the only thing keeping him from being the most dominant defender in the entire league.

Garrett has been public that his conditioning has struggled since having the virus. Those who know Garrett are more than aware it’s not from a lack of working out. Unfortunately, a known symptom is shortness of breath, which can last for weeks after other symptoms.

Look for Garrett to continue to get healthy and have a dominant game to close the 2020 regular season. The Steelers offensive line is just good enough that he will likely get someone on one opportunity that he will take advantage of. After getting so close last week to the strip-sack, I expect him to get it done this week.

Ben Roethlisberger can be a load to bring down in the pocket, but he can also be prone to fumbles as he tries to extend plays with his legs.  Look for Garrett to have at least one sack, one forced turnover, and an additional tackle for loss as he continues to improve on his run defense.