The Cleveland Browns and Pittsburgh Steelers have a long-standing rivalry in the NFL, with both teams frequently competing for dominance in the AFC North. As the Browns look to gain an edge over their divisional foes, here are five ways they can come out on top.
1. Establish a Strong Running Game
The Browns have a talented backfield led by Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt. To beat the Steelers, Cleveland must establish a strong running game that can control the tempo of the game and wear down Pittsburgh's defense. By doing so, the Browns can open up play-action passing opportunities and create mismatches that their receivers can exploit.
In their previous matchups, the Steelers have shown vulnerability against the run, allowing over 100 yards per game on the ground. If the Browns can get their running game going early, it could set the tone for the rest of the game.
Key Statistics:
- Nick Chubb's 4.9 yards per carry average against the Steelers
- Kareem Hunt's 3.5 yards per carry average against the Steelers
- The Steelers' 23rd-ranked run defense in the NFL
2. Pressure Ben Roethlisberger
Ben Roethlisberger is a seasoned quarterback who has a knack for extending plays with his feet and arm. To counter this, the Browns must apply consistent pressure on Roethlisberger to disrupt his timing and decision-making.
Cleveland's pass rush has shown flashes of brilliance, with Myles Garrett and Olivier Vernon leading the charge. If the Browns can get to Roethlisberger early and often, it could force him into mistakes and limit the Steelers' scoring opportunities.
Key Statistics:
- The Browns' 15th-ranked pass rush in the NFL
- Myles Garrett's 12 sacks in his last 10 games
- Ben Roethlisberger's 3.5 seconds average time to throw against the Browns
3. Exploit the Steelers' Secondary
The Steelers' secondary has been a weakness in recent years, and the Browns have the talent to exploit it. With Odell Beckham Jr. and Jarvis Landry leading the receiving corps, Cleveland can create mismatches and attack the Steelers' defensive backs.
The Browns' receivers have shown a knack for making big plays, and if they can get behind the Steelers' secondary, it could result in explosive gains. Additionally, Cleveland's tight ends have been a reliable target for quarterback Baker Mayfield, and they could be a factor in the passing game.
Key Statistics:
- Odell Beckham Jr.'s 17.1 yards per reception average against the Steelers
- Jarvis Landry's 10.5 yards per reception average against the Steelers
- The Steelers' 25th-ranked pass defense in the NFL
4. Win the Turnover Battle
Turnovers can be a game-changer in any matchup, and the Browns must win the turnover battle to beat the Steelers. Cleveland's defense has shown a knack for creating turnovers, with 15 takeaways in their last 10 games.
If the Browns can limit their own turnovers and create opportunities for their defense, it could swing the momentum in their favor. Additionally, Cleveland's special teams unit has been solid, and a big play in the kicking game could be the difference-maker.
Key Statistics:
- The Browns' +5 turnover differential in their last 10 games
- The Steelers' -2 turnover differential in their last 10 games
- The Browns' 10th-ranked special teams unit in the NFL
5. Control the Clock
Controlling the clock is crucial in any matchup, and the Browns must be able to sustain drives and limit the Steelers' possessions. By doing so, Cleveland can dictate the tempo of the game and wear down Pittsburgh's defense.
The Browns' offense has shown a knack for sustaining drives, with a 40% third-down conversion rate in their last 10 games. If Cleveland can continue to move the chains and control the clock, it could limit the Steelers' scoring opportunities and secure a win.
Key Statistics:
- The Browns' 40% third-down conversion rate in their last 10 games
- The Steelers' 35% third-down conversion rate in their last 10 games
- The Browns' 25th-ranked time of possession in the NFL
By following these five strategies, the Browns can gain an edge over the Steelers and secure a crucial divisional win. Will Cleveland be able to execute and come out on top?
What is the key to the Browns' success against the Steelers?
+The key to the Browns' success against the Steelers is establishing a strong running game, pressuring Ben Roethlisberger, exploiting the Steelers' secondary, winning the turnover battle, and controlling the clock.
How can the Browns' defense contain Ben Roethlisberger?
+The Browns' defense can contain Ben Roethlisberger by applying consistent pressure and disrupting his timing and decision-making. Cleveland's pass rush, led by Myles Garrett and Olivier Vernon, must be able to get to Roethlisberger early and often.
What is the significance of the Browns-Steelers rivalry?
+The Browns-Steelers rivalry is one of the most storied and intense in the NFL, with both teams frequently competing for dominance in the AFC North. The rivalry is fueled by the teams' geographic proximity and their frequent matchups over the years.