The Cleveland Browns have a critical division matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers this weekend. The winner will have the lead in the AFC North and the loser will fall behind. In terms of the playoff picture, this is a big game for both teams.
Fortunately, the Browns already have a win in hand over the Steelers after beating them a month ago in a 27-24 win at home. Based on what we have learned from that game, there is a clear blueprint for what the Browns should expect. Here are my three keys for the Browns' defense vs. the Steelers.
Key in on the run
The Steelers are a more efficient running team than they are a passing team. Although they have had the 6th fewest carries this year, they are tied for 8th most yards per carry.
The last time these two teams played,
we saw Steelers running back Jaylen Warren average 5.5 yards per carry. That can’t be the case when that same offense has a lackluster down-the-field passing attack. Stopping the run needs to be the top priority for the Browns defense in this game.
Help on Metcalf over the top
Pittsburgh has one big play threat in DK Metcalf. He is a freak athlete with unreasonable speed for his size. Not many cornerbacks have the size and speed to run with him and contest passes down the field.
This is where safety help has to happen. Metcalf had a 43-yard gash play in route to 115 receiving yards the last time these two teams played. If the Browns can take away that vertical element to his game, then he will be much less of a threat.
Watch tight ends near end zone
The Steelers like to target their tight ends when they get near the red zone. In case you don’t believe me I’ll remind you that both Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington had touchdown catches against Cleveland in their week four matchup.
The defense won’t have to worry about help over the top as much when they are backed up in their red zone. This is when they should pivot and focus safety attention on the tight ends.
This article originally appeared on Browns Wire: 3 Defensive keys to the Browns' Week 8 matchup with the Steelers
