Browns, Deshaun Watson sacked in season finale loss to Steelers

On Jan 9, 2023

PITTSBURGH — The Browns came to Pittsburgh on Sunday with no playoffs possible. However, they had things to play for against the rival Steelers.

They could’ve assured themselves of third place in the AFC North thanks to the head-to-head record. They could’ve swept the Steelers in a season for the first time since 1988.

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Most importantly, the Browns could’ve made sure Pittsburgh also didn’t go to the playoffs. Although the Steelers needed help to get the No. 7 seed in the AFC playoffs, they needed to win to make that possible.

Instead, the Browns could do none of that. The Steelers took the lead with two scores before the half and turned that into a 28-14 victory.

The loss closes out a disappointing third season under coach Kevin Stefanski. The Browns finished in last place in the AFC North with a 7-10 record.

The Steelers, at 9-8, managed to assured themselves of their 19th consecutive .500-or-above season, which ties the New England Patriots for the second-longest streak in NFL history. However, the Miami Dolphins’ 11-6 win over the New York Jets, coupled with the Buffalo Bills’ win over the Patriots, means the Dolphins will take the last wild card berth over the Steelers and Patriots.

For the Browns, it was the sixth start for Deshaun Watson, who was a solid 11-of-17 passing for 137 yards with a touchdown and an interception in the first half. He finished 19 of 29 for 230 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions, and was also sacked seven times.

Steelers rookie quarterback Kenny Pickett, making his first start against the Browns, finished 13-of-29 passing for 195 yards with a touchdown and a two-point conversion pass.