The Pittsburgh Steelers suffered a lackluster 13-6 defeat to the Cleveland Browns, a loss that underscored just how ineffective their offense has become. Facing a 3-12 team, the Steelers had every opportunity to secure a win and clinch the division, but instead they looked lifeless and uninspired. The absence of DK Metcalf due to suspension was glaring, as Pittsburgh lacked any semblance of a deep threat, and the injury to tight end Darnell Washington only compounded their offensive struggles. Without their playmakers, the Steelers simply could not move the ball, and the Browns defense had little trouble keeping them in check.
Aaron Rodgers completed 21 of 39 passes for just 168 yards, failing to throw a touchdown and unable to generate momentum in critical moments. The running game offered little relief, with Jaylen Warren leading the way at 64 yards on 12 carries, but no one could break through for a score. Pittsburgh managed only six points, all in the second quarter, and was shut out in the second half. Their most promising drive ended in disappointment when they failed to convert inside the 10-yard line late in the game, a sequence that summed up their offensive futility. In fact, the Pittsburgh Penguins outscored the Steelers…scoring 7 goals in Chicago!
Meanwhile, Cleveland played with pride despite their record. Rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders was efficient, completing 17 of 23 passes for 186 yards and a touchdown, although he threw two interceptions that the Steelers offense could not take advantage of. The Browns’ defense, led by Denzel Ward’s crucial fourth-down breakup, sealed the win and spoiled Pittsburgh’s hopes of clinching the division. For a team with nothing to play for, Cleveland looked sharper, hungrier, and more disciplined than a Steelers squad fighting for its postseason life. This is one of the biggest knocks of Head Coach Mike Tomlin. His teams play down to the opponents year in and year out.
The loss highlights what Sportsvival has been saying all season long: this Steelers team does not feel like a playoff contender. Their offense is stagnant, their defense inconsistent, and their overall identity muddled. At 9-7, Pittsburgh now faces Baltimore in Week 18 needing a win to reach 10-7, but even if they manage to beat the Ravens, the outlook is bleak. A 10-7 record will get them into the postseason, but it will almost certainly end in a first-round exit.
The suspension of Metcalf and the injury to Washington loom large heading into that matchup. Without Metcalf’s explosiveness and Washington’s size in the red zone, Rodgers will be left with limited options against a Ravens defense that thrives on pressure and physicality. Baltimore has already proven themselves as one of the AFC’s most complete teams, and Pittsburgh’s lack of offensive firepower makes them an early underdog.
All the Steelers had to do was beat a 3-12 Browns team, but they couldn’t. That failure speaks volumes about where this team stands. They lack urgency, creativity, and the ability to finish games. The Browns exposed their weaknesses, and the Ravens are poised to exploit them further.
Going 9-8 would almost certainly eliminate Pittsburgh, while 10-7 would only delay the inevitable. Sportsvival’s critique rings true: this team is not built for January football. Even if they scrape into the playoffs, they will be overmatched and outclassed.
The Steelers’ season now hangs in the balance, but the reality is clear. This is not a playoff-caliber team. Their offense could do nothing against Cleveland, their stars are missing, and their confidence is shaken. Beating Baltimore might salvage pride, but it won’t change the fact that Pittsburgh looks destined for a quick and painful playoff exit.
(photo courtesy of Steelers.com)