With a win, Cleveland would officially eliminate Pittsburgh from the playoff picture and earn their first season sweep of their archrivals since 1988.
PITTSBURGH — At halftime from Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, the Browns trail the Steelers 10-7.
While Cleveland has already been eliminated from the postseason race, a lot remains on the line, as a win would officially knock Pittsburgh out of the playoffs as well as give the Browns their first season sweep of their archrivals since 1988.
For the final time this season, here are 3 observations from the first 30 minutes of play:
Deshaun delivering
This is Deshaun Watson’s final chance to shake off the “rust” that comes from not playing in two years. After a rough first half a week ago, the 27-year-old looked efficient early on today, going 11 of 17 throwing the ball for 137 yards and a touchdown.
However, with the game tied during the two-minute drill, he threw one into triple coverage and was intercepted by Levi Wallace, setting up a Pittsburgh field goal. It’s early, but the $230 million man still leaves a lot to be desired.
Woods’ last stand?
With rumors swirling that defensive coordinator Joe Woods’ job could be in jeopardy, his unit started out by putting together a solid effort. Rookie QB Kenny Pickett looked lost for much of the first half, and Deion Jones forced a Najee Harris fumble at the goal line.
Unfortunately, the half ended with one of the defensive breakdowns that have marked Wood’s tenure, as John Johnson III let George Pickens get behind him allowing Pickett to hit the wide-open receiver for a 31-yard score. The Watson interception followed, and the Steelers were able to take the lead and will get the ball to start the second half.
Penalties an issue again
The Browns were flagged five times for 39 yards over the first 30 minutes, including a third-down pass interference on Greg Newsome II that kept Pittsburgh alive on its touchdown drive. The lack of discipline has been as big a factor as any for the Browns’ disappointing record this season.