Here are the three biggest X-Factors that will help the Cleveland Browns against the Steelers on TNF.
The Cleveland Browns will be facing off against the Pittsburgh Steelers tonight, kicking off Week 4 of the NFL season.
Cleveland has started the year 2-1, with the team winning two straight games entering this contest against Pittsburgh. This will be the first AFC North game of the year for the Browns, giving them a chance to earn a massive victory.
Since 2019, the Browns are 6-1 at home against the Steelers, with multiple of those games coming on Thursday Night Football. Both the Browns and Steelers understand the magnitude of this contest, even early in the season.
But for the Browns to come away with the win, here are the three biggest X-factors in the game today:
1. Deshaun Watson Limits the Turnovers
After a sloppy start to the season, Watson has started to play better. The veteran quarterback hasn't thrown an interception over the last two games, and this will be crucial for the game against Pittsburgh.
If Watson can limit turnovers in this game, the Browns can absolutely win against Pittsburgh. Watson hasn't lit the field on fire with his play so far this year, but he has done just enough to give the Browns a chance to win games, which is all the team wants from its quarterback.
2. Defense Continues Strong Start
The defense for the Browns is one of the main reasons why Cleveland has been able to win the last few games. Cleveland has prided itself on defense over the years, and even without star Myles Garrett, it has stayed strong.
Defensive tackle Mason Graham has started to break out this year, and if he can keep this up, Cleveland's unit could be special. Against the Steelers, the Browns defense will need to pressure quarterback Aaron Rodgers, making him very uncomfortable in the pocket.
3. Todd Monken Can't Overthink Play Calls
So far this year, Monken has done decently as a first-time head coach in the NFL. But going against a veteran in Mike McCarthy tonight could be a challenge.
Sometimes games come down to one single play call or decision. For Monken, he can't overthink everything during this game.
While the Browns want to make a statement against a rival like the Steelers, Monken has to stay the course. Whatever he has been doing the last two weeks has worked well, and there is no reason to change up how he has coached.
