Cleveland Browns at Pittsburgh Steelers Free NFL Picks & Week 1 Odds
by Guy Bruhn - 7/18/2014
Sunday, September 7, 2014, 1:00 PM, CBS
Heinz Field, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
For Updated Odds on This Game Click Here
The Cleveland Browns will hope that the addition of Johnny Football will help them to get off to a good start when they visit the Pittsburgh Steelers in their season opener. The Steelers were able to win both of their games against the Browns in 2013.
The Cleveland Browns ended 2013 with a 4-12 record, which was the ninth time they finished with a losing record in the last 10 seasons. Their defense improved and ended up in the top half of the league, but their offense struggled from start to finish.
Most Browns' fans are optimistic thanks to their front office landing Manziel late in the first round, and No. 8 overall pick Justin Gilbert is expected to be their number one cornerback for years to come. The Browns did pretty well during free agency by signing safety Donte Whitner and wide receiver Miles Austin.
For the second straight season, the Pittsburgh Steelers finished with an 8-8 record and missed the playoffs, but they did win six of their final eight games. Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger had a good season, but the Steelers' running game was 28th in the league.
The Steelers hope that they found the solution to their rushing issues by signing free agent running back LeGarrette Blount. They also filled an open safety spot by picking up ex-Panther Mike Mitchell. Rookies Ryan Shazier and Stephon Tuitt were both thought of as solid picks and should get plenty of playing time this year.
Guy's Pick: Take Pittsburgh
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