Week 12 has started with an upset.
The Cleveland Browns prevailed over the Pittsburgh Steelers 24-19 on Thursday Night Football, surviving the elements of the first snow game of the 2024 season.
Game Analysis
Cleveland took a commanding 18-6 lead early in the fourth quarter with Pittsburgh unable to find offensive rhythm, but it came back to seize a 19-18 lead late on fueled by forcing turnovers in the weather. However, Jameis Winston responded with a late nine-play, 45-yard drive to give Cleveland the advantage again. Russell Wilson had the chance to reply one last time for the win, but the Browns swatted down his last-ditch Hail Mary attempt.
Winners and Losers
WINNER: Nick Chubb, Browns
Chubb has been far from his best after returning from gruesome leg injuries sustained last season, but he played a pivotal role for Cleveland. The 28-year-old rushed for 59 yards on 20 carries for two touchdowns, including the eventual game winner. It was his first multi-rushing touchdown game since Halloween of 2022. Though this game may not spur Cleveland up the AFC ladder, it’s a positive sign for Chubb to pick up individual momentum.
LOSER: Steelers’ offensive weapons
The Steelers typically deploy a robust defense under Mike Tomlin, but the offensive talent around Wilson has been in question. Mike Williams was acquired at the deadline, but he’s still yet to produce for any team this season and did not feature in this game. Wilson completed 21 of 28 passes for 270 yards, one touchdown, and a pick, but the offense’s inability to consistently move the chains in the first three quarters was evident. Pittsburgh’s downfall in this game may have just foreshadowed how its season could end against stronger teams.
WINNER: Snow games
Cleveland hosted the first snow game of the season. While the temperature and field were just fine during the first half, the snow kicked it up a notch in the second. It predictably resulted in more drops by receivers and fumbles. The two teams combined for five fumbles, with three recovered by the opposition. Cleveland’s fourth-quarter miscue could’ve been costly, but it held on for the victory.
LOSER: Third-down disparity
Most of the key team stats point to this being a game the Steelers let slip away. Specifically, the third-down disparity ended on a brutal note from Pittsburgh’s point of view. Pittsburgh converted on a solid 7-for-16 third downs, and had more total yards, drives, and possession time along with fewer penalties. Cleveland, on the other hand, converted on just 1-for-10 third downs. But it flipped the switch when it mattered the most, moving the chain on all four fourth-down attempts. Pittsburgh wasn’t limited by the snow given how it managed to retake the lead during the pouring, but the statistics will definitely frustrate Mike Tomlin and Co.
WINNER: Jerry Jeudy, Browns
After a slow and poor first eight weeks of the season, Jeudy has found improved form with Winston as QB1. He ended the game with six catches on six targets for 85 yards, coming up big whenever the Browns needed him. It also marked four straight games of at least five or more catches for the 25-year-old. While that might not sound like a lot for the former first rounder, he logged three straight games of just one catch each from Weeks 5-7.
Conclusion
The Cleveland Browns’ upset victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers was a thrilling start to Week 12. The Browns’ ability to capitalize on turnovers and convert on fourth-down attempts proved to be the difference-maker. While the Steelers’ offense struggled to find rhythm, the Browns’ Nick Chubb and Jerry Jeudy played pivotal roles in the win.
FAQs
Q: What was the final score of the game?
A: The Cleveland Browns defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 24-19.
Q: Who was the star of the game for the Browns?
A: Nick Chubb and Jerry Jeudy both played well for the Browns, but Chubb’s two touchdowns and 59 rushing yards were crucial in the win.
Q: Why did the Steelers struggle on offense?
A: The Steelers’ offense struggled to find rhythm due to the snow and the Browns’ defense. They also failed to convert on several third-down attempts.
Q: What does this win mean for the Browns?
A: The win gives the Browns a much-needed boost in the AFC standings and shows that they can compete with top teams in the division.
