The “Thursday Night Football” schedule has truly been a treat this season, delivering top-tier divisional matchups. In Week 12, we are treated to a classic AFC North showdown as the Pittsburgh Steelers (8-2) take on the Cleveland Browns (2-8) at Huntington Bank Field. This will be the first meeting between these divisional foes this year. Experience the Thrill of Thursday Night Football with Steelers vs. Browns
Steeler's Dominance and AFC North Standings
The Steelers have started the season on an outstanding note and currently sit at the top of the AFC North standings. Their recent victory over the Baltimore Ravens, a 18-16 win on Sunday, has further solidified their position. Head coach Mike Tomlin has led the team to five consecutive wins and four straight since inserting Russell Wilson as the starting quarterback. Their ability to show toughness and determination in every game is truly remarkable. The Steelers defense has been a force to be reckoned with, holding eight of their ten opponents to 20 or fewer points. They are tied with the third-most takeaways in the NFL and have allowed the second-fewest points per game overall (16.2). Defensive end T.J. Watt is tied with the most forced fumbles in the NFL (4), adding to their defensive prowess.
One win away from an incredible 18 consecutive seasons of finishing at.500 or better, the Steelers are on a roll and looking to continue their dominance in the AFC North.
Cleveland Browns' Struggles and Opportunity
The Cleveland Browns have had a disappointing 2024 season so far, entering Week 12 after a 35-14 loss to the New Orleans Saints. However, they see an opportunity on “Thursday Night Football” to upset the Steelers and show some fight over the final seven weeks of the regular season. Under offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, the Steelers lean on their running backs, with Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren providing a dynamic 1-2 punch out of the backfield.
Quarterback Jameis Winston will be under center for the Browns, marking the fourth straight week starting for the former No. 1 overall pick. While he has performed well since Deshaun Watson's season-ending Achilles injury, turnovers remain a concern. Winston has thrown three interceptions and lost two fumbles in his last three starts. The Browns' defense, which has struggled compared to 2023, will need to step up and slow down the Steelers' offense.
The Classic AFC North Atmosphere
This late-November battle between the Steelers and Browns will have a classic AFC North atmosphere. Defensive end T.J. Watt, who had a standout season last year and was the runner-up for Defensive Player of the Year behind Myles Garrett, will be looking to make his presence felt. With 7.5 sacks on the season and playing all 17 games last year, Watt is a force to be reckoned with.
The outcome of this game could have a significant impact on the AFC North standings and the playoff race. Both teams will be giving it their all in this highly anticipated matchup.