Dawgs By Nature
The Cleveland Browns take on the Pittsburgh Steelers this Sunday — but the outcome of the game could be up for debate, depending on what happens with the Baltimore Ravens on Saturday evening. The Ravens — likely without Lamar Jackson — will take on the Green Bay Packers. If the Ravens lose, they are eliminated and Pittsburgh clinches the AFC North. If that happens, does it make sense for Pittsburgh to get a jump start on resting a few players?
Here is what the national media is saying about the Week 17 game between the Browns and Steelers:
The Steelers might not need this game if the Ravens lose to the Packers on Saturday night. But even so, they seem to be getting things righted, so they probably want that momentum to carry over. The defense has improved in a big way in recent games and that should show up against a bad Browns offense.
The Browns showed fight until the end against the Bills but Buffalo isn’t good on the road while Pittsburgh is finding its defensive and running game identity at the right time. Cleveland will be rocked badly at home, save for Myles Garrett getting a record-breaking sack on Aaron Rodgers.
The Browns are 2-5 S/U at home, but they are 5-2 ATS. Myles Garrett is still seeking the sacks record, and it’s a chance to play spoiler in the AFC North against the rival Steelers. Cleveland has won the last three home meetings, too. Pittsburgh has committed just one turnover in its last three games, however, and Aaron Rodgers is leading a playoff push. The Browns have alternated double-digit and heartbreaking losses the last four weeks.
Below are our Week 17 NFL staff picks:
