Steeler Monday 12/9/24

S. Samek

Steeler Monday for week 14 of the NFL season. With a rematch against the Cleveland Browns, can they make up for the loss they took to them two weeks ago?

Turns out they can as they best the Browns 27-14 at home.

Russell Wilson completed 15 of 26 passes for just 158 yards yet threw for two touchdowns. He also ran for 17 yards. Najee Harris carried the ball 16 times for 53 yards and scored a touchdown. Pat Freiermuth caught three passes on three targets for 48 yards and a score. Van Jefferson also caught a touchdown pass on his only reception of the day.

The defense was improved only allowing 14 points, a week after allowing a season-high 38 points. They sacked Jameis Winston three times and intercepted him twice. No Cleveland receiver went over 100 yards, nor did they allow a 100-yard rusher.

It’s a solid win and much needed. It moves the Steelers to 10-3 on the season, 5-1 at home and 3-1 against the AFC North. They remain in first place in the division. Cleveland drops to 3-10 and 1-6 on the road. They have also been eliminated from playoff contention.

Pittsburgh has yet to clinch a playoff spot but should be closing in on one soon. However, they look to weather the toughest part of their schedule starting with the Eagles this week, before matchups with the Ravens and Chiefs. Even with the tougher slate of games it does look like they have great odds to make the playoffs, if not win the division outright.

Yet overall, a great win over a rival that knocked them out of playoff contention. Not a bad way to start the week.