The Steelers are now 4-6 and hoping to garner their first 3 game win streak of the season. They’ll try to do it in Cleveland on Sunday afternoon.
Last season the Steelers were unable to do so as they coughed up eight turnovers and looked horrific all day. While they have climbed back into shouting distance of the playoff picture; even the slightest hiccup now would be a crushing blow to their chances.
Cleveland is a team that can sting you when you least expect it so the Steelers better not overlook the lowly Browns.
Here are the Keys to A Steelers Victory:
1. The black and gold must protect the football. They did a great job of it against the Lions last week and they need to continue to do so. You never want to provide a bad team with extra opportunities.
2. Todd Haley should continue to allow the no huddle to take place most of the game. By running the no huddle last week; the offense seemed more in synch and better plays seemed to be called. It also enabled the offense to control the clock and keep the defense on the field. Big Ben is a master at this facet of the game and it seems to be a whole different game when they do it. This should allow them to score more red zone touchdowns as well because the defense won’t be able to sub out effectively.
3. The defense needs to impose their will. They can’t let the Browns even think for a second that they are in the game. The linebackers need to get to Jason Campbell and the D line needs to stuff any run attempts. The idea is to crush the Browns spirits immediately and take their heads out of the game.
4. The Steelers can’t play afraid. If they do get down in the game by a couple of scores, they can’t worry about it and start to panic, resulting in sloppy play. They must keep their composure and play their style of football. The rest should fall in place from there.
Here are a Few Things to Watch:
1. Antonio Brown-He had an electric day last week and is the best offensive weapon on the team. Look for him to put up some big numbers again this week, specifically if the no huddle is utilized.
2. Jason Worilds-He is starting to come into his own now that he’s a full time starter and is second on the team in sacks. I look for him to have another big disruptive day.
3. Lamarr Woodley-He’s slated to play this week after missing the Lions game with a calf injury. Typically he’s slowed down upon his return from injuries, how will he do this time?
4. Emmanuel Sanders and Jerricho Cotchery-Sanders is listed as number 2 on the depth chart at wide receiver but if you have been following closely, Cotchery is the better of the two players. Who will get more looks and at what part of the field will these guys be used? Cotchery is a possession guy, Sanders is the quick slot receiver type. They both have roles on this team but who does Ben trust more at this point?
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