The Pittsburgh Steelers came into Sunday's matchup against the Cleveland Browns hoping to clinch the AFC North.
However, despite their recent four-game losing streak, Cleveland had other plans.
The Browns defense was dominant all day, holding Pittsburgh to fewer than 300 yards and no touchdowns.
Their most critical plays came on third and fourth down, holding the Steelers 3-for-18 on combined third and fourth down attempts including a final stand with the game on the line.
Aaron Rodgers was looking for Marquez Valdes-Scantling on fourth and goal, but he was unable to make the catch after tight coverage from Denzel Ward.
Valdes-Scantling was also targeted on both second and third down, both pass plays were incomplete after coverage by Ward.
Following the game, Ward questioned Pittsburgh's choice to throw in his direction with the game on the line. “I don’t know whose bright idea it was to try me for the game on three plays in a row.”
Ward, who was recently named a Pro-Bowler for the third consecutive season, makes a good point. Ward's Pro Bowl selection marks the fifth of his career, the most by any Browns cornerback in franchise history.
Last season, Ward led the NFL in PD (Passes Defended), racking up 19, a career-high.
With Cleveland's victory, the Steelers will have to face the Baltimore Ravens in Week 18 with the division on the line.
As for the Browns, they'll face the Cincinnati Bengals as they look to end the season on a two-game win-streak.
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