Steelers’ Offensive Woes Highlighted in Narrow 13-10 Defeat to Browns

The Pittsburgh Steelers’ previously reliable strategy faltered spectacularly during their recent encounter with the Cleveland Browns.

The Steelers, known for their knack of eking out narrow victories despite a struggling offense, faced a rare setback in a close 13-10 loss against the Browns, propelled by the efforts of rookie quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson in his second NFL appearance.

Entering the game with an impressive streak of 9-0 in one-score games, including a perfect 6-0 in 2023, the Steelers (6-4) could not extend their run.

In the game’s critical moments, it was the Browns (7-3), guided by their young quarterback filling in for the injured Deshaun Watson, who emerged victorious in a matchup marked by scarce first downs and limited big plays.

Steelers coach Mike Tomlin, in his straightforward style, acknowledged the shortfall. “It’s part of the competition in this league, especially on days like this. We accept that and congratulate them for doing just enough to secure a win. Our focus now turns to continued improvement,” he stated.

The Steelers’ concerns are manifold, ranging from the questionable underutilization of running back Jaylen Warren, quarterback Kenny Pickett’s struggles to connect on long passes, to growing disapproval of offensive coordinator Matt Canada.

The Browns appeared to outplay the Steelers at their own game on this occasion, with clear frustration visible in the Pittsburgh locker room.

The Steelers, who have often relied on close shaves for victories, banking on star player T.J. Watt and their defense, or relying on special teams for momentum, faced a harsh reality check. The game commenced with a foreboding tone as Pickett was sacked by Myles Garrett right at the outset.

One of the few offensive highlights for the Steelers was Warren’s 74-yard touchdown dash early in the second half, momentarily energizing the team. Despite his career-best 129 yards, Warren was limited to just nine carries, with a notable absence in the second half.

Tomlin refrained from critiquing Canada’s decision on Warren’s playtime. “We don’t dwell on what-ifs. We stand firmly by our decisions, play choices, and how we distribute the ball,” he asserted.

Even with these challenges, Pittsburgh had a chance for another tight win with 1:42 remaining. However, Pickett’s three successive incomplete passes, marred by miscommunications, particularly with wide receiver Diontae Johnson, led to a rapid turnover.

Pickett acknowledged the communication breakdowns, especially crucial in the game’s final moments. “These issues need to be resolved promptly, particularly in such critical situations,” he remarked.

The Steelers missed an opportunity to involve Warren in their final drive, opting instead to focus on passing plays. Pickett, reflecting on the decision, noted, “In a two-minute drill, the priority is usually to pass. While a run play could sometimes be a surprise element, it wasn’t considered in that particular instance.”

The Steelers found themselves with few opportunities, and when they arose, they failed to capitalize on them.

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More about Steelers-Browns game analysis

• Steelers vs. Browns Game Recap
• Analysis of Pittsburgh Steelers’ Offensive Strategy
• Mike Tomlin’s Post-Game Comments
• Jaylen Warren’s Performance Analysis
• Kenny Pickett’s Quarterback Play
• NFL 2023 Season Highlights