For the Pittsburgh Steelers as a team, this Sunday’s game against the Cleveland Browns isn’t a must-win. But it’s a key litmus test for what kind of team they’ve put together. Are they legitimate contenders in the AFC, a group that’s righted the ship? Or just a squad that eked out two wins against lackluster Denver and Seattle teams? On a more micro-level, the same could be applied to second-year players Chase Claypool and Alex Highsmith, two players who have flashed their sophomore season but will be counted on to beat the Browns.
Mike Tomlin outlined as much for both men during his Tuesday press conference.