Steelers vs. Browns Thursday Night Football Preview: Why I’m Taking Pittsburgh Moneyline

Thursday Night Football gives us an AFC North matchup between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cleveland Browns, and this one has all the makings of a close, physical divisional game. Pittsburgh enters as a small road favorite, with the spread sitting around Steelers -2.5 and the total hovering near 38 points. Instead of laying the points, I decided to take Pittsburgh on the moneyline.

The biggest reason is the matchup up front. Pittsburgh’s pass rush has been one of its biggest strengths through the first three weeks, with T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith creating constant pressure off the edge. Cleveland’s offensive line is dealing with multiple injury concerns, and that could become a major problem against this Steelers defensive front.

Offensively, Pittsburgh is coming off its best performance of the young season. Aaron Rodgers threw for 292 yards and three touchdowns against Cincinnati, while Jaylen Warren gave the offense a major boost with 176 yards from scrimmage. If Pittsburgh can establish the run and keep Rodgers out of obvious passing situations, I think the Steelers have enough offense to control this game.

Cleveland has shown improvement over the last two weeks, and Deshaun Watson has played efficient football, so I don't expect an easy Pittsburgh win. The Browns’ defense has also been generating pressure and should keep this game competitive throughout.

Because I expect a one-score game, I prefer the Steelers moneyline over laying 2.5 points.
My Pick: Pittsburgh Steelers Moneyline


My projected final score is:
Steelers 20, Browns 17

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