Steelers: A Winning Finish To Prevent An Epic Collapse

 

The Pittsburgh Steelers defeated the Cleveland Browns 30-27. It was truly a different story of  each half. The Steelers dominated the first half in offense, defense and special teams. In the second half the Steelers were out scored 24 to 3. Thanks to a two minute drive and a clutch kicker in Shaun Suisham the Pittsburgh Steelers escaped with a important division win.

Coaching:

Mike Tomlin’s game plan was executed to perfection the first 30 minutes of the game. In the second half, Tomlin failed to make adjustments to the Cleveland Browns no-huddle offense. Offensive Coordinator Todd Haley didn’t call the plays in the second half needed to put the game away. Few plays were called to attack the Browns secondary that struggled in the first half. Improvement is needed in closing out games without being conservative. Defensive Dick LeBeau did a masterful in the first half in blitz schemes and cover schemes as well. In the second half, no successful adjustments were made to stop the Cleveland Brown no huddle offense. Improvement is meds in creative defensive schemes to create more turnovers.

Coaching Grade: C-

Offense: 

There are many stats that are impressive. Ben Roethlisberger passing for 365 yards and a touchdown. Le’Veon Bell accounted for 197 total yards and a touchdown. Antonio Brown caught 5 passes for 116 yards and a touchdown. Wide Receiver Markus Wheaton in his first career NFL start accounted for 97 yards receiving including some clutch catches late in the fourth quarter.Yet with all these numbers a late drive was needed to win the game. Right tackle Marcus Gilbert struggled in his pass protection assignments. Fortunately there were no major injuries on the offense.

 Grade: C-

Defense:

Sacks were recorded by both starting outside linebackers Jarvis Jones and Jason Worilds. Defensive End Cameron Heyward recorded a sack as well. Overall defensive pressure was not consistent in the second half. Two potential interceptions were dropped by cornerbacks Ike Taylor and Cortez Allen. The run defense was below average allowing a 100 yard runner who did not start the game. Multiple penalties were called for illegal contact and holding. When needed, the defense made a stand late in the fourth quarter to get the ball back to the offense to win the game.

Grade D+

Special Teams:

The punt return game was excellent. Antonio Brown gave the Steelers great field position multiple times. Kick returner Dri Archer had one very good return but was called back due to a holding penalty. Kicker Shaun Suisham kicked the game winning field goal which showed his clutch once again.

Grade: B+