Cleveland Browns: Week 1 Predictions Against Pittsburgh Steelers

5. The Browns will be more competitive in years past, but ultimately fall to a better opponent

There will be no shame if the Browns lose to the Steelers on Sunday. A team led by a rookie quarterback making his first NFL start, with little veterans on the roster and missing the first-overall pick is not supposed to beat a perennial contender. However, Cleveland should be able to keep it more competitive than people think.

The offense will likely pound the football and take as much time off the clock as possible. Kizer will take some deep shots, but not too many to put him in risk of making big mistakes. Also, the Steelers offense will have to make adjustments. Running back Le’Veon Bell and wide receiver Martavis Bryant’s both return to the team this weekend. There could be some cases of confusion early in the game that the Browns can take advantage of.

Next: Sizing up the practice squad

Ultimately, the better team will win this game – Pittsburgh. However, this Browns team should look a lot different, and much more competitive, compared to year’s past.

Prediction: 34-20 Steelers