Steelers vs. Browns: What’s at Stake, Who’s Playing, and Why Myles Garrett Could Make History
As the NFL regular season barrels into Week 17, Sunday’s matchup between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cleveland Browns carries layers of intrigue - and not just because of the AFC North rivalry. Depending on what happens Saturday night when the Ravens face the Packers, this game could either be a playoff-clinching formality or a full-throttle divisional battle. Either way, there’s no shortage of storylines, starting with a defensive force on the verge of history.
If the Ravens Lose, the Steelers Win - Before They Even Play
Let’s start with the big picture. If Baltimore stumbles against Green Bay on Saturday night, Pittsburgh will clinch the AFC North before they even take the field in Cleveland. That scenario would lock in a playoff berth and give Mike Tomlin the option to rest key starters - including 42-year-old quarterback Aaron Rodgers - ahead of Week 18.
But if the division crown is still up for grabs? Expect a fully loaded Steelers squad with everything on the line, and Rodgers leading the charge.
Myles Garrett Is One Sack Away From NFL History
Whether or not the Steelers go full strength, all eyes in Cleveland will be on No. 95.
Myles Garrett is one sack away from breaking the NFL’s single-season sack record, currently shared by Michael Strahan and T.J. Watt.
And if there’s a team Garrett loves to torment, it’s Pittsburgh - especially at home.
He’s racked up five sacks in the last two Browns home games against the Steelers, and his impact goes far beyond the stat sheet. As Tomlin put it earlier this week, “He’s a game wrecker.
He provides the wave that others ride.” Garrett’s ability to disrupt from the edge - particularly in loud, high-pressure environments where silent counts become necessary - makes him one of the most feared defenders in football.
Sunday could be the exclamation point on a dominant season.
DK Metcalf Out, Roman Wilson Up Next
The Steelers will be without their leading receiver, DK Metcalf, who’s serving a two-game suspension following an altercation with a Lions fan in Week 16. That’s a significant loss for Pittsburgh’s offense, especially if Rodgers plays and the team is still chasing the division.
Tomlin pointed to rookie Roman Wilson as a player who needs to step up in Metcalf’s absence. Wilson, a third-round pick in 2024, has shown flashes with 12 catches and two touchdowns this season.
But his role has shrunk in recent weeks with the additions of veterans Adam Thielen and Marquez Valdes-Scantling. This could be a big opportunity for the rookie to carve out a bigger role - especially if the Steelers are leaning on their depth.
Mason Rudolph: Cleveland Isn’t Friendly Territory
If Pittsburgh has the division wrapped up by kickoff, backup quarterback Mason Rudolph could see the field - or even start. He’s no stranger to Cleveland, but his memories there aren’t exactly fond. Rudolph has started twice at FirstEnergy Stadium, losing both times, including a 2020 season finale where he threw for a career-high 315 yards in a narrow 24-22 defeat.
If he does get the nod, it’ll be his chance to rewrite a tough chapter in his career - though doing it against this Browns defense is no small task.
Cleveland Has Been a Problem for Pittsburgh
Let’s talk about the recent history between these two teams - specifically in Cleveland. Since 2018, the Steelers are 1-5-1 on the road against the Browns, including three straight losses. It’s been a tough place for Pittsburgh to play, and Garrett has had a lot to do with that.
When asked about the team’s struggles in Cleveland, Tomlin didn’t overthink it. His answer?
“Myles Garrett.” That about sums it up.
Shedeur Sanders Gets His First Taste of the Rivalry
On the other side of the ball, rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders will be making his sixth NFL start - and his first in one of the league’s oldest and most heated rivalries. Sanders’ early returns have been a mixed bag. He’s shown potential, but the numbers tell the story of a young quarterback still finding his way: a completion rate of just 55.1%, with more interceptions (8) than touchdown passes (6).
Still, a game like this - at home, against a division rival, with a playoff atmosphere - is the kind of trial by fire that can shape a young quarterback’s trajectory. Whether he rises to the moment or struggles under pressure will be one of Sunday’s biggest questions.
Defense Might Rule the Day
Cleveland’s defense, led by veteran coordinator Jim Schwartz, has been the backbone of this team all year. Statistically, it’s been the top unit in the AFC North, and it’s kept the Browns in games even when the offense has sputtered. That trend could continue Sunday, especially against a Steelers offense missing its top wideout - and possibly resting starters.
But if the division is still in play, expect Pittsburgh to come out swinging. Rodgers has been sharp in recent weeks, and with a chance to lock up the AFC North and rest in Week 18, the veteran quarterback will be all business.
Bottom Line
Whether it’s a playoff tune-up or a must-win scenario, Steelers-Browns always delivers intensity. Add in Myles Garrett’s pursuit of history, a rookie QB under the spotlight, and the potential for major playoff implications - and you’ve got one of the most compelling matchups of the weekend.
Regardless of the stakes, expect a physical, defensive battle. And keep your eyes on Garrett every time the ball is snapped - we could be witnessing NFL history in real time.