Boell: Steelers will win, cover vs. Browns
Rashard Mendenhall #34 of the Pittsburgh Steelers carries the ball during a game against the Kansas City Chiefs. (Nov. 27, 2011) Credit: Getty Images
BROWNS (4-8) at STEELERS (9-3), 8:20 p.m.
TV:NFL
Radio: WFAN (660) joined in progress
Steelers by 14; O/U: 38 1/2
Was it just a month or two ago that many NFL talking heads suggested the Steelers (especially the defense) were too old? I guess when you're losing, you're old, but when you're 9-3, you're experienced? I know Cleveland has covered twice in the last three weeks overall. However, it's hard to back a Browns team that has lost 10 of their last 11 games in Pittsburgh's big ketchup bottle known as Heinz Field, and has beaten the Mike Tomlin-coached Steelers just once in eight career meetings, even getting two TDs! Pittsburgh (9-4 ATS in its last 13 games overall as a favorite) takes another chapter in the storied Turnpike Rivalry.
THE PICK: Steelers
RONIS' FANTASY TAKE: The carries have been limited for Steelers RB Rashard Mendenhall compared to last season. He has just one game with more than 20, but that could change against the Browns, who rank 31st against the run. Mendenhall has four TDs the last three games and is an excellent start. Stay away from the Browns.
STAFF PICKS
Bob Glauber: Steelers
John Boell: Steelers
Tom Rock: Steelers
Roderick Boone: Browns
Sarra Sounds Off, Ep. 17: Olympics a possibility for Long Beach wrestler? On the latest episode of "Sarra Sounds Off," Newsday's Gregg Sarra talks with Long Beach wrestler Dunia Sibomana-Rodriguez about pursuing a third state title and possibly competing in the Olympics in 2028, plus Jared Valluzzi has the plays of the week.
