"Previewing Week 12 TNF: Steelers vs Browns - Predictions and Prop Bets"

The Pittsburgh Steelers face the typically undesirable challenge of traveling on a short week for a Thursday night primetime game. However, a few factors are working in Pittsburgh's favor as Week 12 of the NFL regular season begins. The "journey" to Cleveland is just over two hours by road and the Steelers will be up against a backup quarterback leading a highly underwhelming 2-8 Browns team. The Steelers (8-2) are coming off a significant victory over Baltimore to maintain their position at the top of the AFC North. They are also starting to focus on the possibility of securing home-field advantage in the playoffs. ODDS AND TRENDS The Steelers are a consensus 3.5-point favorite, with 80 percent of the spread-line money backing them at BetRivers. Their -195 moneyline to win the game outright is even more popular, with 95 percent of all money wagered going towards it. The Browns have failed to cover the spread in nine of their last 12 games, while the Steelers have covered the spread in every game during their five-game winning streak. The 37.0 total points line has seen 65 percent of the money and 70 percent of the total bets backing the Over. Additionally, each of Cleveland's last eight November home games have gone under the total points line. PROP PICKS - Steelers WR George Pickens Over 50 Receiving Yards (-195 at DraftKings): Russell Wilson has thrown six touchdowns in the four games since becoming the starting quarterback. Two of those have gone to Pickens, who has recorded at least 74 receiving yards in each of those games. While there is a possibility that Pittsburgh will take an early lead and rely on a run-heavy offense, Wilson's strong deep ball plays to Pickens' strengths. This is the most popular player prop at the book. - Steelers RB Najee Harris Anytime TD (+100 at BetRivers): With the potential for a run-heavy approach, Harris could benefit. He struggled against Baltimore with just 63 rushing yards and was held out of the end zone for the second time in three games. However, Cleveland has only allowed three rushing touchdowns all season, but 12 through the air. Harris has three scores on the ground and receiving through 10 games. KEY STAT The Browns have won the first quarter in their last five home games against the Steelers. THE NEWS The Steelers are currently on a five-game winning streak, most recently defeating the Baltimore Ravens 18-16 on Sunday. Against Baltimore, Chris Boswell kicked six field goals, while Wilson completed 23 of 36 passes for 205 yards and an interception. Meanwhile, Cleveland continues to struggle, suffering a 35-14 loss to the New Orleans Saints on Sunday, marking their seventh loss in their last eight games. Cleveland now faces one of the toughest defenses in the league. Browns quarterback Jameis Winston is determined to lead a solid performance against Pittsburgh, who allows the second-fewest points per game in the NFL (16.2). "It's about precision passing, getting the ball out on time, and executing at an elite level," said Winston. "This team (the Steelers) won't try to trick you. They'll line up and say, 'Give us your best, we'll give you ours.'" Winston threw for 395 yards and two touchdowns on 30-for-46 passing in the loss to New Orleans, with Jerry Jeudy recording six catches for 142 yards and a score. Star running back Nick Chubb has continued to struggle since returning from a knee injury that ended his 2023 season early, finishing with just 50 yards on 11 carries. INJURY REPORT The Browns may be without standout defensive end Myles Garrett, who missed practice on Tuesday due to a hip injury. Wide receiver Elijah Moore (shoulder), guard Joel Bitonio (pectoral), and cornerbacks Denzel Ward (ribs/ankle) and Greg Newsome II (shoulder) were limited during the session. Linebacker Alex Highsmith is dealing with an ankle issue and has been ruled out by the Steelers, along with cornerback Cory Trice Jr. (hamstring). THEY SAID IT Wilson is starting to feel like he could be part of something special, but he doesn't want Pittsburgh to get ahead of themselves. "I definitely think we have a chance (to make a deep playoff run)," said Wilson, who has played in two Super Bowls. "I think the biggest thing for us is to continue to take each week as the most important week of all. "I think it's not just about the week, it's about the day, it's about the moments in between. I think the greatest teams, the greatest players, in any sport, especially the teams I've been on, is the moment - it's never too far away. It's right here, right now