NFL: 3 Matchups that will determine the final playoff picture for both conferences

NFL Matchup #2: Cleveland Browns (7-9) @ Pittsburgh Steelers (8-8)

Score Prediction: PIT 24- CLE 10 (Sunday, 1:00 PM ET)

The seventh seed in the AFC playoff bracket has the Steelers’ name on it, but first, they must take care of business on their home field. A win and a Patriots and Dolphins loss punch Pittsburgh’s ticket for the post-season. Mike Tomlin and his team persevered through a rocky start to the new campaign. Their hard work is rewarded with a win-or-go-home scenario.

A decision to start Kenny Pickett in Week 7, changed the narrative for Pittsburgh. Before the switch, Matt Canada’s offense struggled to outscore opponents – despite stout defensive performances. Signing Mitchell Trubisky served its purpose, which transitioned into grooming the franchise’s next quarterback. Pickett continued to develop, showing improvement throughout the season. Losses against the Ravens, Bengals, and Dolphins taught the rookie character – enough to persevere to the season’s end. No. 8’s development revived Pittsburgh and will be why Pittsburgh clinches the playoffs. Finding George Pickens and Pat Freiermuth will help the rookie succeed this week.

Defeating a divisional opponent will be icing on a small cake for Kevin Stefanksi’s team. Cleveland is eliminated from playoff contention, but a win would make the transition to the off-season sweeter. A 24-10 victory against the Commanders will give Deshaun Watson and his teammates’ confidence heading into Sunday. No. 4 threw three touchdown passes and Nick Chubb recorded 104 yards on the ground. A repeat performance could result in a Cleveland win, shocking the league and disrupting the Steelers’ post-season plans.