The new Browns helped out their predecessors in a big way during Week 17 of the 2025 NFL regular season.
The Steelers had two options to secure the AFC North and earn a playoff home game: they could rely on the Packers to beat the Ravens or win against the Browns themselves.
On Saturday, the Packers fell to the Ravens at Lambeau Field, a loss that kept Baltimore’s playoff dreams alive. The former Browns franchise, relocated by Art Modell in 1996, was looking for a way back into the postseason picture. Then, on Sunday, the new Browns did their part, defeating the Steelers 13-6 at Huntington Bank Field.
This result set the stage for a climactic Week 18 matchup between the Steelers and the Ravens for the division title—a battle that has often defined their seasons. Since the Ravens joined the league in 1996, either team has claimed the title 20 out of 29 times. Regardless of the stadium or coaching staff, these two teams always seem to find themselves in a late-season showdown.
This time, however, it’s a winner-takes-all scenario. The last time these teams faced off with true stakes was Christmas Day in 2016, but that was not a season finale. On Sunday, the stakes felt even higher. As Steelers player Cam Heyward said, “Bring it on. Baltimore’s coming in. Winner takes all.”
Myles Garrett, the Browns’ star defensive player, has proven to be a game-wrecker. In recent games, the Browns won when Garrett recorded multiple sacks but lost when he didn’t. During their earlier matchup in October, Garrett was shut out, leading to a Steelers victory. So, this time, the focus was on stopping him, which also meant ensuring Rodgers had time to throw passes.
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin acknowledged the challenge Garrett presents. “The sack records are irrelevant,” he said. “We have to minimize him if we want to win.” Their strategy worked, as Garrett finished the game without a sack. However, this came at a cost; injuries to key players forced the Steelers to adjust their game plan on the fly.
Quarterback Aaron Rodgers struggled, noting the team did not execute well on third downs. They only converted once in the first half and ended up settling for field goals instead of touchdowns. “I didn’t have a very good game,” he admitted.
Despite some missed opportunities, the Steelers were unable to capitalize. They created chances for turnovers but failed to score points after the attempts. Heyward pointed out that the team needed to take advantage of its chances. “We had some clear opportunities to see some more turnovers,” he said.
Even with their struggles, the Steelers had more offensive plays and dominated time of possession. Yet, they couldn’t convert their drives into touchdowns. Tomlin expressed disappointment, stating, “We just didn’t make enough plays.”
Now, with a crucial game against the Ravens ahead, the Steelers must regroup. This loss has raised the stakes for the season. “It’s for everything,” Heyward said. “You don’t have to wait for someone else to play. If you’re a competitor, this is what you want.”
As they prepare for this high-stakes showdown, the Steelers’ ability to respond will define their season moving forward.
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Labriola On,Non-Sponsored,Featured,Sights and Sounds,Pittsburgh Steelers at Cleveland Browns (2025-REG-17)
