NFL · 1 year ago

How the Steelers Can Beat the Browns: 5 Keys to Victory in Week 11

Zack Cook

Host · Writer

5. Patrick Peterson Steps Up in Secondary
There are definite question marks about the Pittsburgh Steelers secondary without Minkah Fitzpatrick. With his status still unknown for Sunday, the Steelers have to hope veterans like Patrick Peterson continue to step up. Peterson had a key pass tip that turned into an interception against Green Bay. If Peterson can help lead a questionable Steelers secondary, they hold a much better chance at finding success in Week 11.
1. Kenny Pickett Doesn't Turn the Football Over
After improving to 6-3 with a victory at home against the Green Bay Packers in Week 10, the Pittsburgh Steelers are visiting the Cleveland Browns in Week 11. With another performance with no turnovers against Green Bay, Steelers' quarterback Kenny Pickett holds the NFL's longest active streak without an interception. Although the passing offense hasn't often created big plays or numbers, the Steelers find ways to win more often than not when they don't turn the football over.
2. Jaylen Warren and Najee Harris Stay Hot
Over the last two weeks, it's no coincidence that the Steelers offense has looked a lot better with the ground attack firing on all cylinders. Jaylen Warren and Najee Harris have been a nice duo, while the offensive line has been productive, especially with rookie Broderick Jones on the field. The Steelers have to find creative ways to run the ball against this strong Browns defense if they want to continue their winning ways.
3. T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith Get Pressure
Without Deshaun Watson at quarterback, the Cleveland Browns are turning to rookie Dorian Thompson-Robinson. If you're a rookie besides C.J. Stroud, going up against this Steelers pass rush hasn't been pretty. The Browns are likely going to continue running the ball at a high clip, but T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith have the ability to change this game whenever Thompson-Robinson lines up in the shotgun.
4. George Pickens Makes a Big Play
It's no secret that George Pickens hasn't been as involved in the Steelers passing attack since Diontae Johnson returned from injury. Still, in this type of matchup against the Browns, the Steelers are going to need one or two big plays from their receivers, and Pickens is the guy to do that. We're not expecting a high volume of targets, but don't be surprised if Pickens creates a big play for 35 or more yards on Sunday afternoon.
5. Patrick Peterson Steps Up in Secondary
There are definite question marks about the Pittsburgh Steelers secondary without Minkah Fitzpatrick. With his status still unknown for Sunday, the Steelers have to hope veterans like Patrick Peterson continue to step up. Peterson had a key pass tip that turned into an interception against Green Bay. If Peterson can help lead a questionable Steelers secondary, they hold a much better chance at finding success in Week 11.
1. Kenny Pickett Doesn't Turn the Football Over
After improving to 6-3 with a victory at home against the Green Bay Packers in Week 10, the Pittsburgh Steelers are visiting the Cleveland Browns in Week 11. With another performance with no turnovers against Green Bay, Steelers' quarterback Kenny Pickett holds the NFL's longest active streak without an interception. Although the passing offense hasn't often created big plays or numbers, the Steelers find ways to win more often than not when they don't turn the football over.