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The Pittsburgh Steelers are set to host the Cleveland Browns in their Week 17 matchup. The Monday night game is one of the most highly anticipated games of the week because of its playoff weight. Both AFC North teams are in the bottom half of their division, but both still have a chance at making the playoffs. That’s right, the AFC North is up for grabs, with the Cincinnati Bengals just one win ahead of the Baltimore Ravens. That being said, let’s take a look at my four boldest predictions for the do-or-die AFC North game.
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Steelers Week 17 Predictions
4. Multiple TDs for Najee Harris
Najee Harris has been the most productive rusher for the Steelers this season. The running back has 984 rushing yards. Despite his success in the run game, Harris has yet to score multiple touchdowns in a game this season. He has run it into the end zone six times this season, each touchdown in a game of its own.
For more insight on the Steelers' Week 17 matchup against the Browns, listen below:
Harris is currently in a little bit of a drought in this department. He hasn't scored since Week 14 against the Minnesota Vikings. And, that was his only touchdown in the last six games for Harris. Expect things to change on Monday, and Harris to score at least two rushing touchdowns for the Steelers.
3. Big numbers for Diontae Johnson
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Harris may be the Steelers' top rusher, but Diontae Johnson is equally as important to the team's offense. Johnson is the number one target for Ben Roethlisberger, with 1,079 receiving yards and seven touchdowns. Since Big Ben revolves his game around the pass, expect Johnson to have huge numbers and at least one receiving touchdown Monday night. The third year wide receiver has proven himself as a reliable offensive weapon for the veteran quarterback.
2. Best performance of the season for Ben
Speaking of Roethlisberger, this next one is for him. Ben has made it pretty clear all season that this would be his last year in the league. He has been with Pittsburgh since he entered the NFL in 2004, and is most likely hanging up the cleats after 17 years in the league. In fact, he all but announced his retirement on Thursday, saying that the Monday night matchup would likely be his last game at Heinz Field.
Knowing what we do about Big Ben, this will definitely be a game to watch. Expect Roethlisberger to dominate the Browns' defense on Monday with his best performance of the season.
1. Steelers win
Obviously, the Steelers have a lot of skill on offense, and huge talents on defense (T.J. Watt, for example). The Browns have been struggling to perform recently, and quarterback Baker Mayfield isn't looking too good. That being said, expect the Steelers to win the primetime matchup in dramatic fashion.
The night is sure to be full of scoring and nostalgia as Ben celebrates his final game at Heinz Field, especially when they pull off the win. Finally, my boldest prediction yet: Steelers win 21-14.
