Disappointing Defenses
On paper, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cleveland Browns have loaded defenses for the TNF odds. With clear issues on offenses, both rely on their defense to lead the way. Coming off Week 1 wins, Pittsburgh and Cleveland’s defenses turned in poor performances, leading to Week 2 losses. Which AFC North squad can rebound on Thursday Night Football odds?
Let’s check the latest NFL odds, news, stats, injury reports, and NFL lines for the Steelers vs Browns. We’ve plenty of Vegas NFL odds for you to consider.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Quarterback play continues to hold back the Pittsburgh Steelers’ offense. Against the New England Patriots, Mitch Trubisky averaged 5.1 yards per attempt with a 73.8 passer rating. The unit was so sluggish that Pittsburgh fans began chanting for Kenny Pickett — the backup rookie QB. The offensive line isn’t helping Trubisky’s chances. Running back Najee Harris is off to a mediocre start and Diontae Johnson has been the only consistent receiver. The offense has a lot to figure out.
Of course, the defense sorely missed T.J. Watt’s presence. He completely changes opposing teams’ game-planning. It was expected that Pittsburgh’s defense would have some drop-off following Watt’s injury. However, it was worse than expected. The Steelers did not record a sack, allowed four yards per rush, and yielded 376 yards. Overall, the defense was solid but could not hold when it mattered most.
A struggling offense is Pittsburgh’s biggest problem, but a defense without Watt adds another issue.
Cleveland Browns
In Week 2, Cleveland Browns’ offense looked good. It totaled over 400 yards with five yards per carry. Most importantly, Jacoby Brissett was much better compared to the season opener. Amari Cooper’s 101 receiving yards and touchdown were also big boosts.
Jacoby Brissett to Amari Cooper on 3rd and 6! #Browns pic.twitter.com/JeiYl1RqTj
— Pro Football Culture (@proftblculture) September 18, 2022
So how did the Browns completely fold in their 31-30 loss to the New York Jets?
The most obvious problem was defense. How does Joe Flacco have 307 passing yards and four touchdowns with a 110.7 passer rating? Rookie Garrett Wilson also torched the secondary with 102 receiving yards and two touchdowns. Myles Garrett was held in check as the secondary looked completely lost at times.
To make matters worse, special teams pretty much cost Cleveland the game. Kicker Cade York missed an extra point, making it 30-17 with 1:55 on the clock. Then, the Browns failed to recover an onside kick. Cleveland’s secondary was beaten one last time in the dwindling seconds as New York took a 31-30 lead.
If the defensive miscues continue, it’s going to be a long season.
Steelers vs Browns Game Injuries
Steelers vs Browns Head-to-Head
Pittsburgh dominated Cleveland for a long time, but recently this rivalry has become far more competitive. The series is split over the last four, with the Steelers winning both matchups last season.
Steelers vs Browns Game Information
- Date: Thursday, Sept. 22
- Time: 8:15 p.m. ET
- Location: FirstEnergy Stadium, Cleveland, Ohio
- How to watch Steelers vs Browns? ESPN
Steelers vs Browns Live stream: NFL Game Pass
Steelers vs Browns Betting Lines
Steelers vs Browns Prediction
Cleveland is dealing with many injuries right now, especially on the offensive line. While Watt will be out, the Steelers still have an impressive pass rush led by Cameron Heyward. Plus, the Browns have issues in the secondary following the loss to the Jets. Pittsburgh will cover as the pass rush hounds Brissett.
Don’t forget to stay tuned to BetUS Sportsbook & Casino and take a look at Thursday Night Football Tonight odds!
The odds and predictions in the article are based on the time of writing and publication. They may differ as to when the actual event takes place.
Steelers vs Browns Trends
Steelers vs Browns Edge
Steelers vs Browns Results
Steelers vs Browns Game Summary
Take a Look at Other 2 Previews, Picks & Predictions For NFL Thursday Night Football Matchups
- Dolphins vs Bengals Prediction, Game Preview, Live Stream, Picks & Odds
- Colts vs Broncos Prediction, Game Preview, Live Stream, Odds & Picks
