The Cleveland Browns face a divisional showdown with rival Pittsburgh Steelers this weekend. Both teams enter this game with a 5-2 record and the winner of this game will sit at the top of the AFC North.
The Browns have found success this year by leaning on their defense. With that said, the offense has to continue to take steps forward if they want to reach the post season this year. The Steelers have a tough defense and present a good opportunity for the Browns to continue to build on their momentum from last week.
To do that they will have to follow these three keys for the Browns offense vs the Steelers.
Quick hitters
The Steelers have a stout run defense, allowing the 6th fewest yards per rushing attempt. So instead of trying to force the run, the Browns
offense needs to supplement it. They can do this with screens and quick-hitting passes.
Pass catchers like KC Concepcion and Harold Fannin Jr. are capable of making a defender miss and turning a two-yard gain into an eight-yard gain. This is critical to keeping the offense on schedule.
Help the offensive tackles
There might not be a better group of pass rushers in the NFL today than what Pittsburgh has. TJ Watt, Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig have combined for 10.5 sacks and 18.5 tackles for loss. They are a matchup problem for any offensive tackle.
Cleveland will want to minimize times when Spencer Fano and Tytus Howard (if healthy) are left on an island. Tight end chips and running backs supporting in pass protection will be the best way to protect Deshaun Watson in the pocket.
Attack the linebackers
The Steelers have allowed the 3rd most receiving yards to opposing running backs this season. Involving the running backs in the passing game and forcing the Steelers' linebackers to cover and make plays in space should be effective for the Browns.
While Quinshon Judkins isn’t known as a pass catcher, he is good enough to keep the Steelers defense on their toes and make a play when called upon.
This article originally appeared on Browns Wire: 3 Offensive keys for the Browns against the Steelers in Week 8
