Pittsburgh Steelers: Studs and duds vs. Browns in Week 13
By Samuel Teets
Stud: James Washington, WR
The second-year Oklahoma State product set a career-high in receiving yards last week with 98 yards against the Cincinnati Bengals. That game came a few weeks after setting a career-high of 90 yards against the Los Angeles Rams. Now, Washington has yet another new career-high.
Against the Browns, Washington caught four passes for 111 yards and a touchdown on four targets. With Juju Smith-Schuster unavailable, someone had to step up as Pittsburgh’s top receiver. Washington, who has started his career slowly, answered the call.
More from NFL Spin Zone
- Dallas Cowboys made the trade everyone else should have made
- Pittsburgh Steelers rookie sleeper everyone should be talking about
- Anthony Richardson putting jaw-dropping talent on display immediately
- Denver Broncos’ stud wide receiver might be out for a while
- Washington Commanders: Three takeaways from win over Ravens
The highlight of Washington’s afternoon came when with just over a minute left in the first half. While tangled up with a defense back and facing double coverage, Washington made a falling circus catch for a touchdown. The extra point tied the game at 10 apiece.
Dud: Vance McDonald, TE
Before we start, I should specify how much Steelers fans love Vance McDonald. He’s a solid run blocker and can lay the boom on would-be tacklers. He fits the tight end mold Steelers fans love, but his contributions in the passing game this year are lacking.
McDonald caught three passes for 21 yards on Sunday. He’s averaging 22 receiving yards and 2.9 receptions per game this year. That’s down significantly from his 40.7 receiving yards and 3.3 receptions per game last year.
Obviously, poor quarterback play has affected McDonald’s production. However, with Smith-Schuster missing some time and fighting double coverages, the Steelers need more from their veteran tight end.