3 Biggest X-Factors For Browns to Sweep Season Series vs Steelers

The Cleveland Browns continue to be one of the bigger surprises in the NFL this season, entering Week 8 with a record of 5-2.

Cleveland has been able to do just enough to win games this season, with both sides of the ball playing well. This has given new life to the franchise under first-year head coach Todd Monken, giving the team the thought of a playoff appearance.

This week, the Browns will be heading on the road to face off against the Pittsburgh Steelers, giving the team a chance to sweep the season series. Cleveland took down the Steelers a few weeks ago at home, and this contest could help them build even more momentum this year.

The Steelers are also 5-2 on the year this season, and the team has won three straight games coming into the matchup. The winner of this game will take sole possession of the AFC North, making this a massive contest between rivals.

Here are three of the biggest X-Factors for the Browns to take down Pittsburgh this week:

1. Avoid Turnovers

For the Browns, making sure to avoid turning the ball over will be crucial if they want to take down the Steelers on the road. Pittsburgh is one of the better teams in the NFL at generating points off turnovers, so Cleveland is going to have to be very careful in this game.

Cleveland has done well this year at taking care of the ball, but the Steelers' defense does have a lot of playmakers on the roster. If the Browns don't beat themselves in the game, Cleveland will have a good chance to come out with another win ove their division rivals.

2. Protect Deshaun Watson

The Browns have been one of the worst teams in the NFL at protecting the quarterback, giving up 25 sacks so far this year. Cleveland's offensive line is going to have to find a way to not allow pressure in this game, but that could be easier said than done.

Against the Steelers a few weeks ago, the Browns gave up two sacks to the Pittsburgh defense, and this is where the team wants to land. The Browns can't afford to let the Steelers dictate the game with pressure; otherwise, they likely won't come away with the win.

3. Get the Running Attack Going

The Browns have to find a way to get Quinshon Judkins going on a more consistent level this season. If the team can open the running game up, it could create more opportunities for the Steelers' pass rush to not generate as much pressure due to the threat of the offense being well-rounded.

Judkins has rushed for 317 yards and three scores this season, including posting 93 yards and two touchdowns last week. If the star running back can replicate this performance, it could be a fun day for the Browns against Pittsburgh.