Deshaun Watson continues to improve on a weekly basis. The Cleveland QB had a strong game in Week 17. He completed 9-of-18 passes for 169 yards, three touchdowns, and no interceptions. Despite attempting the fewest passes of the season, Watson was highly efficient. He averaged 9.4 yards per attempt. This was also his first multi-touchdown performance of the season, with touchdowns thrown from distances of 46, 13, and 33 yards.

The Cleveland Browns already eliminated the Washington Commanders from playoff contention last week. They can eliminate another team this coming weekend if they beat the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 18 on the road. The Steelers need this win to stay alive for a playoff berth, but the Browns would be all too happy to kick their division rivals out of contention.

Keep in mind that the Browns and Steelers have a longstanding rivalry. That’s despite Cleveland’s history of struggles on the field. Remember also that in the recent past, Cleveland has managed to secure a playoff spot thanks to the Steelers and even defeated Pittsburgh in the playoffs.

However, this year, the tables have turned. Now, it’s the Steelers who need to win against Cleveland in the final week of the season. Aside from that, Pittsburgh also needs both the New England Patriots and Miami Dolphins to lose their games so the Steelers can make it to the playoffs.

Additionally, Pittsburgh’s head coach, Mike Tomlin, has a streak of winning seasons on the line. That said, Cleveland has the opportunity to end their season on a high note by kicking a rival out of playoff contention and ending Tomlin’s streak.

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