Steelers stock report after Week 8 win over Browns

The Pittsburgh Steelers secured a 27-6 victory over the Cleveland Browns on Sunday, marking their sixth win and sole first place in the AFC North. The Browns have not defeated the Steelers in Pittsburgh since 2003. In this weekly stock report, we analyze the players who excelled and those who underperformed.

Running backs Jaylen Warren and Rico Dowdle played pivotal roles in the Steelers' offensive success. Dowdle scored first with a nine-yard touchdown run, while Warren rushed for over 100 yards and scored a touchdown in the third quarter. The Steelers recorded a team-high 160 rushing yards in the first half, showcasing the effectiveness of Warren and Dowdle's pairing.

Wide receiver Darnell Washington emerged as a standout performer, catching three passes for 94 yards with 64 yards after the catch. Washington's ability to create mismatches in the Steelers' passing game makes him a crucial asset.

Defensive coordinator Patrick Graham's defensive unit recorded eight sacks, including one from rookie safety Robert Spears-Jennings on the opening drive. Inside linebackers Patrick Queen and Payton Wilson also contributed significantly, with Queen recording 1.5 sacks and Wilson making several crucial stops. The defensive effort against Deshaun Watson was particularly noteworthy, as the Browns managed just 34 rushing yards and averaged 2.3 yards per attempt.

Conversely, wide receiver DK Metcalf struggled, delivering only one catch for four yards in six targets. Metcalf's performance highlights the challenges Pittsburgh faces with their star player, as the team's passing game did not rely on him during the game. The red zone offense also proved frustrating, as the Steelers opted to pass in most situations inside the ten-yard line, despite having a strong ground game.