The Cleveland Browns are gearing up for the matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers without their star quarterback Deshaun Watson, who is unfortunately injured. The team has decided to give a rookie QB a chance in this game. The game is scheduled for Sunday, November 19, at Cleveland Browns Stadium in Ohio.
To add salt to the wound, many crucial players for the Steelers are also injured. For a comprehensive overview of the recent injury status for both teams leading up to the game, here are the details.
Dorian Thompson-Robinson to start NFL Week 11 vs Steelers
The Browns Deshaun Watson was out for the season due to a throwing shoulder fracture. Therefore, rookie QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson, who received a shoutout from Aaron Rodgers is slated to start in Week 11 against the Steelers. He is gearing up for this role, with his preparations including his third practice as the starter.
Dorian Thompson-Robinson believes he now has a better understanding of what it takes to play at the highest level in the NFL. While he was already studying before, he has become even more committed to mastering the playbook and game plan.
His improved understanding is reflected in his progress over the week, from better Tuesdays to improved Wednesdays and Thursdays. He now demonstrates a high level of familiarity with the playbook, even firing out play calls before the coach sets the motion.
He has been running the scout team, showcasing his versatility in various roles during practice sessions. In the previous week, he contributed by emulating the playing style of Lamar Jackson to prepare the Browns’ defense. Therefore, the team has decided to give him a chance in the absence of Deshaun Watson.
The team also has PJ Walker on the roster. When Deshaun Watson had a shoulder injury at that time, he replaced Watson and played well, even winning multiple games.
The Cleveland Browns are also considering signing veteran quarterback Joe Flacco. He is a Super Bowl-winning quarterback and was brought in for a workout. As Deshaun Watson is unable to play this season, the team is trying to add a third quarterback.
However, in Week 11 quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson will replace Deshaun Watson and will be the starting quarterback in the game against the Steelers.
Browns vs Steelers NFL Week 11 injury report
The Browns, with a 6-3 record, have 17 players listed on their injury report. Notable absences include S Juan Thornhill and WR Marquise Goodwin, both ruled out due to concussions.
RT Dawand Jones and G Michael Dunn is questionable, with Jones expected to play. WR David Bell is set to return. S Rodney McLeod will step in for Juan Thornhill, who is missing his second game this season. WR Marquise Goodwin remains sidelined due to a concussion suffered on November 5.
The Steelers, also at 6-3, have seven players listed on their injury report. Notable injuries include WR Diontae Johnson (thumb) and S Minkah Fitzpatrick (hamstring). TE Pat Freiermuth is limited in practice with a hamstring injury.
The Steelers have a higher H2H score than the Browns. In the last five head-to-head matchups between the Browns and Steelers, Pittsburgh has emerged victorious four times. Pittsburgh scored 112 points against Cleveland while conceding 89 points.
Now, both teams are set to face each other once again on November 19. Who do you think will win the encounter? Tell us your predictions in the comments.