Revenge is sweet, but is it enough for the Browns? In a thrilling Week 17 showdown, the Cleveland Browns emerged as spoilers against their arch-rivals, the Pittsburgh Steelers, in a game that was as much about pride as it was about playoff implications. But here's where it gets controversial: while the Browns celebrated a hard-fought 13-6 victory, questions linger about their offensive consistency and whether this win was more about Pittsburgh's shortcomings than Cleveland's strengths. And this is the part most people miss: the individual performances that either cemented legacies or raised eyebrows.
The Browns entered this rubber match with a score to settle. After a humiliating 23-9 defeat in Week 6, no Browns fan—or player—wanted to endure another loss to their division nemesis. For many players, this game was about more than just rivalry; it was a final audition for their NFL careers. With contracts on the line, every tackle, every punt, and every kick mattered. The Steelers, meanwhile, needed a win to secure the AFC North Division title and a playoff berth. The Browns, already out of contention, had nothing to lose—except their pride.
But did the Browns truly rise to the occasion, or did the Steelers simply falter? The final score suggests a defensive battle, with Cleveland's defense stepping up in crucial moments. Yet, the offense sputtered, raising concerns about their ability to sustain success. Let’s break it down, starting with the standout performers—the Brownies—and those who left something to be desired—the Frownies.
BROWNIES
LB Carson Schwesinger embodied the spirit of the game. Despite suffering a twisted right foot in the second quarter, he gutted it out, finishing with a team-high nine tackles. His refusal to quit, even when carted off the field, was nothing short of inspiring. But here’s the controversial part: Was it wise for DC Jim Schwartz to keep him in the game? While Schwesinger’s toughness is undeniable, was he truly effective, or did his injury become a liability? It’s a fine line between admiration and concern.
K Andre Szmyt delivered a flawless performance, going 2-for-2 on field goals, including a 50-yarder that split the uprights with ease. His lone kickoff pinned the Steelers at the 35-yard line, showcasing precision and power. Question for the audience: Is Szmyt the unsung hero of this game, or is a kicker’s impact inherently limited in a low-scoring affair?
P Corey Bojorquez had a stellar day, averaging 57.0 yards on four punts, with a long of 64 yards. His performance outshined his league-leading average of 51.7 yards per punt. But here’s a thought: In a game where field position mattered, did Bojorquez’s punts truly swing the momentum, or were they a byproduct of the Steelers’ offensive struggles?
S Grant Delpit was everywhere, finishing with eight tackles, a sack, and a tackle for loss. His coverage on WR Scotty Miller in a crucial fourth-and-one situation was game-changing. However, is Delpit’s performance a sign of his growth, or did the Steelers’ predictable offense play into his hands?
CB Denzel Ward silenced critics who questioned his Pro Bowl credentials. After a quiet three quarters, Pittsburgh OC Arthur Smith inexplicably targeted Ward on three consecutive plays, all of which ended in incompletions. But here’s the controversial take: Was Smith’s decision a tactical blunder, or did he underestimate Ward’s ability to rise to the occasion?
DE Cameron Thomas flew under the radar but was a force against the run and pass. His four tackles, three pressures, and tackle for loss were pivotal. Yet, why isn’t Thomas getting more recognition? Is he overshadowed by Myles Garrett, or is his impact simply less flashy?
FROWNIES
The offense started strong with a 10-0 lead but then imploded. Turnovers, punts, and missed opportunities defined their day. But here’s the real question: Is this a one-off performance, or does it expose deeper issues with playcalling and execution?
The running game was abysmal, averaging just 3.1 yards per carry. While injuries to Quinshon Judkins and Nick Chubb played a role, the offensive line’s inability to create holes was glaring. But is this solely on the line, or does the coaching staff share the blame?
LT Cam Robinson struggled against DE Alex Highsmith, who recorded two sacks and four QB hits. Robinson’s missed assignments left Shedeur Sanders vulnerable. But here’s a counterpoint: Was Robinson set up to fail, or did he simply have an off day?**
DE Myles Garrett, one sack away from the single-season record, was neutralized by the Steelers’ offensive line. While his effort was commendable, his lack of impact raises questions. Is the record out of reach, or will Garrett bounce back in future seasons?
QB Shedeur Sanders showed flashes of brilliance but made critical mistakes, including two interceptions. His underthrown pass to Jerry Jeudy was particularly costly. But here’s the debate: Is Sanders a victim of his offensive line, or does he need to improve his decision-making?**
Final Thoughts
The Browns’ victory was sweet, but it wasn’t perfect. While individual performances like Schwesinger’s and Szmyt’s stood out, the offense’s struggles cannot be ignored. So, we ask you: Was this win a testament to Cleveland’s resilience, or did the Steelers simply hand them the game? And what does this mean for both teams moving forward? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a debate!
