You forget how shell-shocked Browns fans are. I texted a buddy (big Browns fan) when the entire receiving corps went out with covid. I got this long rambling message about how the Steelers had a secret plot to let the Browns into the play-offs.. just so they can beat them. I'm thinking, what am I dealing with?
Anyhoo, I'm taking the Browns to cover and win. Spread opened Steelers -4.5 and fell to -4. Allowing 3 points for home field advantage (which doesn't exist this year), that's -1 for the betting public.
Steelers sat starters and Browns had an equal number out with covid, they'll be back.
Steelers are a slightly deeper team but they're in a state of collapse - one win in six, against the Dolts. Average 16-19 points per game.
Big Ben is back, that's the death knell. He's a spent fossil, he can't throw deep, they can't run, he won't run play-action. The only reason he's still in the game is the power he has in that city. The coaching staff is powerless to get rid of him.
The Browns.. will win this game.