4 Key Steelers Matchups in Week 8 vs. Browns

Even though Cleveland’s secondary has played at a high level, one matchup from the teams’ previous two meetings involving Metcalf stands out. Campbell has been on the wrong end of several explosive plays downfield against the Steelers’ receiver.

If Pittsburgh wants to find more consistency in the passing game, this matchup will be critical on Sunday. Metcalf could change the complexion of the game with a couple of explosive plays downfield. That kind of production might also force Cleveland to adjust its defensive game plan and coverage calls.

Mason McCormick vs. Mason Graham

Graham missed most of the teams’ previous meeting, but McCormick was getting the better of him before he exited. Now, the two will square off again, and Graham will have something to prove. He has emerged as one of Cleveland’s best defensive players.

Meanwhile, McCormick has been one of the Steelers’ most reliable offensive linemen this season. If you enjoy watching physical battles in the trenches, this is the matchup for you. McCormick will need another strong performance to help Pittsburgh establish its offense against a talented defensive front.

Steelers EDGE Rush vs. Deshaun Watson

Watson may not throw the ball as effectively as he once did, but he can still escape pressure and extend plays. He slipped away from several Steelers EDGE rushers during their Week 4 meeting, and Pittsburgh’s pass rush will have another opportunity to contain him on Sunday.

Watson completed just 3-of-9 passes on throws traveling more than 10 air yards in their previous meeting. However, allowing him to escape the pocket could create problems. He can hurt Pittsburgh with his legs or find receivers downfield when the defense loses its structure. The Steelers cannot afford to let him turn broken plays into explosive gains.

Jamel Dean vs. Denzel Boston

The last time the Steelers faced this dynamic rookie, Boston came away with multiple explosive plays. If anyone questioned whether the rookie was the real deal, he provided plenty of evidence in that matchup. Expect Dean to follow Boston closely this week, with Pittsburgh potentially giving its cornerback more opportunities to play press coverage.

Cleveland’s rookie receivers have shown plenty of potential, but Boston has been the most productive of the group. Keeping him contained will be a priority for Pittsburgh’s secondary. Dean has the opportunity to make a significant impact by limiting Boston’s ability to create explosive plays.