PITTSBURGH — The Cleveland Browns have already beaten the Pittsburgh Steelers once this season. On Sunday afternoon, they'll try to complete the season sweep when the AFC North rivals meet at Acrisure Stadium in a matchup between two 5-2 teams.

Cleveland enters the game riding a two-game winning streak following victories over Baltimore and Tennessee. Last Sunday, the Browns escaped Nashville with a 27-24 victory over the Titans, securing the win on an Andre Szmyt field goal as time expired.

The teams' first meeting on October 1 provided plenty of drama. The Browns built a 21-7 lead before Pittsburgh rallied to tie the game at 24 late in the fourth quarter. Deshaun Watson then led Cleveland into field-goal range, where Szmyt connected from 56 yards with 10 seconds remaining to secure a 27-24 victory.

The Browns will need another strong performance from Watson against a Pittsburgh defense featuring T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, and Cameron Heyward. Cleveland's offensive line received good news Saturday when tackle Tytus Howard cleared concussion protocol and was removed from the injury report.

Establishing the running game with Quinshon Judkins and Dylan Sampson would go a long way in this one. Such is life in the AFC North. Judkins scored twice against Tennessee, and a productive rushing attack would help Cleveland on third down situations.

Defensively, the Browns must pressure Aaron Rodgers without allowing explosive plays downfield. Pittsburgh receiver DK Metcalf is always a difficult matchup, while tight end Pat Freiermuth gives Rodgers another option. Cleveland's secondary has some injury concerns, with Myles Harden and Daniel Thomas listed as questionable.

Pittsburgh will be without cornerbacks Brandin Echols and Doneiko Slaughter, potentially creating opportunities for Cleveland's passing attack. Both teams have shown an ability to win close games, and Sunday's matchup could again come down to execution in the final minutes.

Game Information

Prediction

Cleveland has enough offensive talent and defensive playmakers to beat Pittsburgh again, but winning at Acrisure Stadium is a difficult assignment. The Browns should keep the game close, with the Steelers getting one final opportunity to move into field-goal range and win on a late kick.

Steelers 24, Browns 21