CLE to win+135TLDR: Pittsburgh comes to Cleveland short at cornerback, with a reshuffled right side protecting a 42-year-old quarterback on 4 days' rest, and the Browns' pass rush can win that matchup.
Point
- Steelers corners
Joey Porter Jr. is out, and Jalen Ramsey (wrist) and Brandin Echols (concussion) are questionable, which leaves Pittsburgh thin against Cleveland's rookie receivers.
- Interior pressure
Mason Graham has 4 sacks in 3 games, and Pittsburgh, after reshuffling its right side, allowed pressure on 11 of 40 dropbacks Sunday.
- Short week
The trip is only about 130 miles, but Cleveland never leaves home on 4 days' rest, and Pittsburgh's quarterback is 42.
- New sideline
Mike Tomlin went 28-9-1 against Cleveland and is gone, so that record does not carry over to Mike McCarthy's 1st game in this rivalry.
Counterpoint
- T.J. Watt matchup
Spencer Fano, the rookie tackle taken 9th overall, draws T.J. Watt, and Cleveland's line has already had trouble with penalties.
Neutral
- Weather
The forecast is partly sunny with a high near 82 and a south wind of 9 to 13 mph, and showers aren't expected until after 2 AM.
- What comes next
Both teams play next on Sunday, October 11, so they get the same 10-day break after Thursday night.