Browns vs. Steelers: Prediction and odds for Week 3

The Cleveland Browns look to improve to 2-1 on the season as they host the Pittsburgh Steelers. Who is favored and what will the final score be?

This has been the longest short week ever. Following their shocking loss to the Jets, the Cleveland Browns had far too much chirping coming out of Berea. Players were making sure to absolve themselves of blame while Myles Garrett expressed frustration with the fans.

The issues were on defense and their plan to fix this was a players-only meeting, which is usually a panic move — and seeing someone do this after two games is incredibly alarming. Having said that, if it works, then great — because something needs to fix this disconnect.

Let’s look ahead to the Week 3 contest with the Pittsburgh Steelers and check out the odds as well as a prediction for the outcome.

Browns vs. Steelers Odds Week 3

Cleveland is favored in this home game, with a -4.5 spread over Pittsburgh. They’re sitting at -200 in the moneyline while the road team stands at +168. The oddsmakers seem to think this one will be a defensive matchup with the over/under at 38.5.

Browns vs. Steelers Prediction Week 3

One of the best takeaways from the home opener was how well Jacoby Brissett played. He was calm and in control while also finding a rapport with Amari Cooper. He did throw a pick to end the game but by then, it was already decided and he was simply trying for a miracle by pushing the ball downfield.

There’s no reason to expect anything else on Thursday. Brissett should be able to pick up plenty of yardage, especially with the Steelers selling out to stop the run. The only question is whether their defense gets it figured out.

Chances are, a players-only meeting didn’t fix everything but the percentages are in Cleveland’s favor. It’s highly unlikely they give up another massive shot downfield and outside of those plays, they haven’t been bad so far. They remain competitive and do just enough to give them something positive to take into the mini-bye.

Prediction: Browns 23, Steelers 17