After nearly a month without a single win, the Cleveland Browns got back on track with a 13-6 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers in a game where the defense stood out, especially in the final moments. The defense locked down in the red zone, forcing Aaron Rodgers to throw four incomplete passes, securing the result.
This win was a painful one for the Steelers, who could have clinched the AFC North title with a victory. However, now they must fight for their playoff hopes in next week’s matchup against the Baltimore Ravens. The winner of that game will be crowned division champion, while the loser will be eliminated from playoff contention.
The Browns’ defense rose to the occasion, not only by shutting down the Steelers in the red zone on their final offensive series but also by holding Pittsburgh to just six points throughout the game. Aaron Rodgers struggled to get into a rhythm, finishing with only 168 passing yards.
A key game for Shedeur Sanders’ aspirations
There’s no doubt that Shedeur Sanders is still under evaluation for what lies ahead in the 2026 season. This game was important to assess his situation. Despite throwing a few interceptions, one of which was clearly his fault, the quarterback had a solid opening drive and ultimately secured his second win as the Browns’ starter.
Similar to the previous game, Shedeur Sanders had moments of inconsistency but finished with one touchdown pass, two interceptions, 186 passing yards, and 20 rushing yards. The former Colorado Buffaloes star continues to make progress, although much remains to be seen in terms of the organization’s decision for the next season.
Ahead of the game against the Steelers, Mary Kay Cabot revealed on 93.2 The Fan Cleveland that Sanders has made a strong case for the Browns not to select a quarterback early in the upcoming draft: “Shedeur Sanders has everything in the world to play for… each week he’s gotten closer and closer to showing them (they don’t need to draft a QB high). This would certainly, certainly be a huge game to do that.”
It’s likely that the Browns won’t select a quarterback in the next draft, as Deshaun Watson will be returning. With Shedeur Sanders showing positive growth, the team could focus on strengthening other positions. The upcoming offseason will be interesting for Cleveland, especially with the battle between Watson and Sanders for the starting quarterback job.
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