Scouting Ahead: Cleveland Browns Week 8 opponent, Pittsburgh Steelers
By Colin Damms
Defense, defense, defense
Defense is important to both the Browns and the Steelers this week. Of course, defense is always important in the NFL, but the context here is both teams need to find a way to paper over the instability of their offense.
The Browns’ defense has been a mixed bag this year, letting up big in huge losses to the Chargers and Cardinals, while also showing they can smother opponents against the Bears, Vikings, and Broncos. The Steelers’ offense could be a prize candidate for the latter type of performance, but it’s not a given.
Creating turnovers and getting quick stops is a must to allow their offense opportunities to figure out a stout opposing defense.
The Steelers have had a great defense in place for some time now, and their familiarity with how to go at the Browns with their specific group of players could be an advantage. They have however been vulnerable, not only this season but down the stretch last year as well.
A healthier offensive line can do a job against Watt and co., and Chubb’s return alongside Johnson’s emergence should help whoever is at quarterback. That the Steelers defense can’t reasonably expect the Steelers offense to put up 30+ points in a game is a huge plus for the Browns as well.
Next. Browns vs. Steelers Week 8 prediction. dark
The magic number to seal a win could only be about 24-28 points as long as the defense puts in a shift. In what will likely be a defensive battle the Browns must limit mistakes like turnovers, get to Big Ben, and don’t let up any big plays to swing momentum and put pressure on the offense.