Cleveland Browns vs Pittsburgh Steelers Picks and Predictions November 21st 2024

Steelers Aim to Extend Streak Against Struggling Browns

The Pittsburgh Steelers are charging toward an AFC North title, but quarterback Russell Wilson is focused on staying in the moment. As the Steelers prepare to face the Cleveland Browns on Thursday night, Wilson believes the key to success lies in maintaining a day-by-day approach.

“I think the biggest thing for us is continuing to just take each week as the most important week,” Wilson said. “The greatest teams, the greatest players, in any sport … it’s the moment — it’s never too far away. It’s right here, right now.”

The Steelers (8-2) have fully embraced that philosophy, winning five straight games, including an 18-16 victory over the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday. Pittsburgh relied on kicker Chris Boswell, who nailed six field goals, and their stingy defense, which allows the second-fewest points in the NFL (16.2 per game).

Wilson completed 23 of 36 passes for 205 yards and an interception against Baltimore. While the offense has yet to fully ignite, the Steelers’ steady play has been enough to keep them on track.

Browns Look to Snap Out of Slump

Things are much bleaker for the Cleveland Browns, who sit at 2-8 after losing seven of their last eight games. The Browns are coming off a 35-14 blowout loss to the New Orleans Saints, in which quarterback Jameis Winston posted strong passing numbers (395 yards, two touchdowns) but failed to generate consistent offense.

“It’s precision passing, getting the ball out on time, elite operation, and just doing our job,” Winston said. “This team (Steelers) is not going to try and fool you. They’re going to line up and say, ‘Give us your best, we’re going to give you our best.'”

Cleveland’s running game has struggled, particularly with Nick Chubb still finding his rhythm after returning from a major knee injury. Chubb managed 50 yards on 11 carries against the Saints.

Key Challenges for Cleveland

The Browns will have to contend with a Pittsburgh defense that ranks among the league’s best. Cleveland coach Kevin Stefanski emphasized the challenge ahead.

“Great challenge playing the Steelers on Thursday night,” Stefanski said. “Well-coached team, great players on offense, defense and special teams.”

Adding to Cleveland’s woes, the Browns could be without several key players. Defensive end Myles Garrett missed Tuesday’s practice with a hip injury, while cornerbacks Denzel Ward (ribs/ankle) and Greg Newsome II (shoulder), wide receiver Elijah Moore (shoulder), and guard Joel Bitonio (pectoral) were all limited.

Steelers Look to Maintain Dominance

The Steelers will lean on their ferocious defense, led by linebacker T.J. Watt, while the offense continues to find its rhythm. Wilson’s veteran leadership has helped stabilize the unit, and Pittsburgh’s balanced approach has them firmly in control of the division.

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Pittsburgh linebacker Alex Highsmith (ankle) missed practice Tuesday but remains a key part of the defense when healthy. Cornerback Cory Trice Jr. (hamstring) practiced in full.

What to Watch For

1. Steelers’ Defense vs. Jameis Winston: Can the Pittsburgh defense contain Winston, who passed for nearly 400 yards last week?
2. Cleveland’s Ground Game: Will Nick Chubb return to form against one of the league’s best run defenses?
3. Russell Wilson’s Poise: Can Wilson and the Steelers’ offense generate more touchdowns and capitalize on Cleveland’s struggles?

The Steelers won the last matchup between these teams, 28-14, earlier this season. With Pittsburgh surging and Cleveland faltering, Thursday night presents an opportunity for the Steelers to solidify their standing in the AFC North while the Browns desperately search for answers.