5 Bold predictions for Cleveland Browns vs. the Steelers

2. Mayfield changes the narrative

After the best four-game stretch of his career, Baker Mayfield took another step backward on Sunday. Yes, he didn’t have his four top wide receivers available. But that doesn’t excuse him from having three fumbles. He was under more pressure the entire game as the line had two starters out, but he must make the adjustment. Sacks are one thing, turnovers are another that can’t be acceptable.

Mayfield’s worst performance of the year came in the team’s week seven 38-7 loss at Pittsburgh.  In that game Mayfield missed some snaps because of a rib injury, however, some believe Stefanski just wanted to see what backup Case Keenum could do vs. the stingy defense.

There is no doubt that Mayfield will want to revenge his 10 of 18 performance with one touchdown and two interceptions. One interception was returned for a touchdown on the Browns first possession which completely changed the tone of the entire game.

Week in and week out I have been a supporter of Mayfield. I want nothing more than for him to be the franchise quarterback in Cleveland. This is the game fans. If he performs well and gets Cleveland to the playoffs, I’m officially comfortable offering him a long-term deal.

The Steelers defense is extremely tough, so the numbers won’t be mind-blowing, but expect a 20 of 30 type day, with two touchdowns, no turnovers, and most importantly a Browns win. He will eclipse 250 yards, but Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt will close the deal on the ground as Browns fans will get the Christmas present they have wanted for 18 years, a shot at the playoffs.