The Cleveland Browns at least made it look less ugly as quarterback Jameis Winston found tight end David Njoku for a touchdown strike to pull the game within two scores.
With just over seven minutes left in the game, Winston connected with tight end Njoku for a 15-yard touchdown, capping a 14-play, 79-yard drive to cut the Steelers’ lead to 27-14. Cleveland converted two crucial fourth downs on the drive, one on a three-yard pass to Njoku and the other on a nine-yard completion to receiver Elijah Moore. This was Winston’s second touchdown pass of the game.
Jameis finds Chief at the pylon for the TD#CLEvsPIT on CBS and NFL+ pic.twitter.com/OmdnoYPGmv
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) December 8, 2024
The Browns relied heavily on the passing game with time running out, keeping their slim comeback hopes alive in Pittsburgh. However, kicker Dustin Hopkins’ two missed field goals from within 45 yards now loom large, as they could have brought the game within one score with ample time remaining.
Winston has completed 23 of 39 passes for 201 yards, two touchdowns, and an interception, following his record-setting performance for most passing yards in franchise history last week. Running back Nick Chubb has rushed 11 times for 48 yards, while Jerry Jeudy continues to lead the receiving corps with 64 yards and a touchdown. Cleveland will need a big play or two to stay in contention for an improbable comeback.