Week 17 score predictions: Cleveland Browns already in playoff mode
By Randy Gurzi
The Cleveland Browns can secure a playoff spot with a win
Throughout the 2020 NFL Season, we have continually stressed how important each game has been for the Cleveland Browns. But now that the calendar reads 2021, they really do find themselves facing their biggest test of the season.
With a record of 10-5, the Browns are within striking distance of a playoff berth — which would be their first since the 2002 season. All they need to do in order to secure that spot, and end the longest current drought in the NFL, is beat the hated Pittsburgh Steelers.
The good news is, Pittsburgh is resting many of their starters including Ben Roethlisberger. The bad news is, Cleveland continues to have issues with COVID-19 and will be without one of their best players in Denzel Ward.
With all that being said, members of the DPD crew look ahead to the game and predict whether or not the Browns will secure their spot this weekend. Here are our Week 17 Cleveland Browns score predictions.
Writer: Randy Gurzi
Summary: Pittsburgh is resting many starters, which could help the Browns since they will be without Denzel Ward. He means a lot to the defense, which is why this one could be closer than expected.
Prediction: Cleveland 28, Pittsburgh 23
Writer: Dan Gilinsky
Summary: The Browns, thanks to a nice belated gift from Mike Tomlin, find a way to get the job done, and beat up Mason Rudolph.
Prediction: Cleveland 27, Pittsburgh 14
Writer: J.T. Soderlund
Summary: Last year, Mason Rudolph and Myles Garrett’s altercation cost Garrett his final six games. This year, Rudolph is still full of holiday cheer and gifts the Browns defense multiple turnovers. But the biggest gift of all is the Browns’ first trip to the playoffs since 2002!
Prediction: Cleveland 31, Pittsburgh 10
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Writer: Casey Kinnamon
Summary: This has been a Steeler week like no other. It will end in the same fashion as the Browns beat Covid and the Steelers to punch their first playoff ticket in 18 seasons.
Prediction: Browns 24, Steelers 17