Cleveland Browns stun Steelers as Garrett’s impact disrupts playoff dreams in dramatic 13-6 upset
The Cleveland Browns delivered a stunning performance against the Pittsburgh Steelers, a team vying for a playoff berth, with a gritty 13-6 victory. This marked the Browns’ fourth win of the season, showcasing a formidable defense and flashes of offensive brilliance. Here’s an in-depth look at the key takeaways from this unexpected upset.
Garrett’s Impact Looms Large
While Myles Garrett may not have broken the NFL’s single-season sack record in this game, his influence was undeniably felt. The Steelers devised a game plan aimed at neutralizing Garrett, employing unconventional running plays and forcing quarterback Aaron Rodgers into hasty throws. Despite their efforts, Garrett’s presence disrupted Pittsburgh’s offensive rhythm, leading to one of their most challenging outings of the year.
Rodgers finished the day with a mere 168 passing yards, including just 58 on the final drive, averaging a paltry 4.3 yards per attempt. Meanwhile, defensive end Alex Wright capitalized on the attention directed at Garrett, notching a sack and a critical tackle for loss. Wright’s key play came when Garrett looped inside, leaving him in a favorable one-on-one situation, and Rodgers held the ball too long, resulting in a pivotal sack.
As the game neared its conclusion, it became evident that the Steelers’ strategy had backfired. Rodgers struggled to connect with his receivers, particularly Marquez Valdes-Scantling, as defensive back Denzel Ward effectively disrupted their timing. The Steelers’ overemphasis on stopping Garrett ultimately played a significant role in their inability to score, paving the way for Cleveland’s upset victory.
Offensive Promises and Pitfalls
The Browns’ offense started strong, generating 10 points in the first quarter. Rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders showcased his potential early on, connecting with fellow rookie Harold Fannin Jr. and the struggling Jerry Jeudy for significant gains, culminating in a 28-yard touchdown pass to Fannin. However, the momentum quickly dissipated.
After Fannin exited the game due to injury, Sanders threw two interceptions, one resulting from a poor decision to force a pass to Jeudy, who was well-covered. The other interception came off a deflected pass intended for Jack Sawyer, a former Ohio native. The Browns’ makeshift offensive line struggled to provide adequate protection, while a depleted running back corps, missing Quinshon Judkins, further hindered their efforts. Penalties consistently derailed promising plays, underscoring the need for offensive reevaluation in the offseason.
This game served as an audition for many players who may or may not return next season. Offensive tackle Cam Robinson faced significant challenges, while Sanders and Jeudy displayed glimpses of their potential, leaving fans curious about their future contributions.
A Fight Worth Noting
Despite being eliminated from the postseason weeks ago, the Browns demonstrated remarkable resilience and tenacity against their division rival. The defense stepped up in a big way, stifling the Steelers’ offense at crucial moments. Pittsburgh had several chances to seize control in the game’s final quarter but could not capitalize.
Key defensive players made their mark, with Carson Schwesinger recording nine tackles despite playing through an injury, while Devin Bush matched that tally and added a forced fumble. Mason Graham also shone with six tackles, and the secondary, featuring Ward, Tyson Campbell, Tre Avery, and Grant Delpit, played exceptionally well.
Special teams also contributed significantly, with Andre Szmyt successfully kicking a 50-yard field goal under challenging conditions, sealing the win with a clutch kick late in the game. Punter Corey Bojorquez delivered a pivotal 64-yard punt, and the punt coverage team excelled in limiting return opportunities.
This display of fight and determination raises questions about what could have been if the Browns had shown this level of performance earlier in the season. It also suggests that head coach Kevin Stefanski might not be in jeopardy of losing his job, especially given the promise displayed as the team looks ahead to next year.
