Watson leads Browns to 27-24 win over Steelers, securing AFC North lead
The Cleveland Browns defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 27-24 on Thursday night, taking first place in the AFC North. Deshaun Watson led a late game-winning drive, while kicker Andre Szmyt hit a 56-yard field goal with 10 seconds remaining. The Steelers' defense struggled with coverage and penalties, and Aaron Rodgers was sacked five times.
Key points
- Cleveland Browns defeated Pittsburgh Steelers 27-24 in Week 4.
- Deshaun Watson completed 24 of 33 passes for 268 yards and one touchdown.
- Andre Szmyt kicked a 56-yard field goal with 10 seconds left to win the game.
- Aaron Rodgers threw three touchdowns but was intercepted twice and sacked five times.
- Cleveland took first place in the AFC North, while Pittsburgh fell to 2-2.
Background
The Browns and Steelers were tied for the AFC North lead entering Week 4. Cleveland had won eight consecutive Thursday night games, while Pittsburgh had lost 10 straight divisional Thursday night games. The Browns had a strong home record against Pittsburgh in recent years.
How outlets are covering it
Dawgs By Nature emphasized the Browns' defensive performance and special teams, highlighting Denzel Ward's interception and Andre Szmyt's field goals. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette focused on the Steelers' visible frustration, including Aaron Rodgers yelling at coach Mike McCarthy and T.J. Watt's heated exchanges. NFL.com noted the Browns' young talent, such as Denzel Boston and KC Concepcion, and the Steelers' offensive struggles, including Rodgers' five sacks and the team's inability to find separation.
Why it matters
The win secured first place in the AFC North for the Browns and highlighted the team's defensive and special teams improvements. For the Steelers, the loss exposed defensive vulnerabilities and offensive inconsistencies, raising questions about their ability to compete in the division.
What to watch
Both teams will continue their seasons, with the Browns aiming to maintain their lead in the AFC North and the Steelers looking to improve their defensive and offensive execution. The Steelers' next game will be a key test for their adjustments.
- Browns vs Steelers: Winners, losers as Cleveland uses defense, key plays to secure win Dawgs By Nature
- Watson leads third straight winning drive, puts Browns atop North ESPN
- The Steelers’ frustrations were plainly visible — and at times audible — in Thursday’s loss in Cleveland Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
- Steelers-Browns on 'Thursday Night Football': What We Learned from Cleveland's 27-24 win NFL.com
- Labriola on the loss to the Browns steelers.com
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