Cleveland Browns 2021 NFL schedule: 5 must-win games

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - JANUARY 17: Quarterback Baker Mayfield #6 of the Cleveland Browns drops back to pass against the defense of the Kansas City Chiefs during the AFC Divisional Playoff game at Arrowhead Stadium on January 17, 2021 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) /

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PITTSBURGH, PA – JANUARY 11: Ben Roethlisberger #7 of the Pittsburgh Steelers in action against the Cleveland Browns on January 11, 2021, at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images) /

2. Cleveland Browns must-win games – Vs. Pittsburgh Steelers

Any Browns fans will tell you that a game with the Steelers is always a must-win affair. 2020 was the first time in a while that Cleveland won a game against Pittsburgh, making it extra sweet when the Browns stunned the Steelers on Wild Card Weekend.

It is important to note that despite the Steelers’ collapse down the stretch that this team did find a way to win 12 football games in 2020. A new offensive coordinator could help a stagnant passing game for Pittsburgh, which should also benefit from the healthy return of key linebacker Devin Bush on defense.

There is also a key psychological element to matchups with the Steelers, who have dominated the Browns since the franchise was reactivated in 1999. It would be a major blow to the confidence of the franchise if Pittsburgh went back to sweeping the Browns as they have for the vast majority of the past two decades.

The game in Cleveland will be a dynamic atmosphere in 2021 assuming fans are allowed into the stadium at closer to full capacity by the start of the season. Firing up the Dawg Pound with a big win over the Steelers is a big deal for the Browns this season.

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