2017 NFL Picks, score predictions for Week 17

Cleveland Browns (0-15) at Pittsburgh Steelers (12-3)

This is it — the Cleveland Browns’ final chance to avoid the dreaded 0-16 finish. Unfortunately, it comes against one of the NFL’s top contenders in 2017, the Steelers. Even in a divisional showdown, the Browns have little hope of securing their first win of the year.

More than likely, Pittsburgh will be playing hard in Week 17 with the hope of securing the top seed in the AFC. That’ll take a N Patriots loss, but it’s possible even against the Jets. Either way, don’t look for the Steelers to pull too many starters against Cleveland.

If anything, Pittsburgh will do its best to put this one away early. Relying on an explosive offense and a defense that should have no trouble creating plenty of turnovers against DeShone Kizer and Browns offense, I don’t foresee securing an early lead as an issue. In all likelihood, this game could be out of reach before halftime.

With this win, the Steelers help their case in the race for the No. 1 seed. It also pushes the Browns to 0-16, making them only the second team in NFL history to do so. It’s an ugly way for Cleveland’s campaign to end, but at least they get the top pick in the 2018 NFL Draft as a consolation prize.

Prediction: Steelers win 34-13