The divisional showdown between the Cleveland Browns and the Pittsburgh Steelers this past weekend ended with a big victory for the team led by Shedeur Sanders. Years of NFL experience prompted both Mike Tomlin and Aaron Rodgers to share their thoughts on what happened after the game.
Talent recognizes talent, as the saying goes in this sport. For that reason, Sanders received praise from both Steelers leaders, who, after the game, approached No. 12 to congratulate him on his performance.
“Good job man,” Rodgers congratulated Shedeur. “I’m proud of you. Happy for you man.” Despite taking a tough loss that puts their playoff hopes in jeopardy, Tomlin also acknowledged the effort of his opponent: “Good job young man, stay up. You know it”
While Sanders admitted he felt bittersweet due to the low scoring during the game, there’s no doubt that his talent led the Browns to a big victory in a matchup neither team ever wants to lose.
Sanders wants to be the QB1 next season
Shedeur Sanders is determined to secure the starting role next season, despite recording 1,289 passing yards, 7 touchdowns, 10 interceptions, and a 20.2 QBR through seven games, before Week 18.
While he showed flashes of potential in a recent upset win over the Steelers, he got an important reminder in pursuit of the Browns 2026 QB job from Kevin Stefanski, who emphasized that the young signal-caller must improve his decision-making and consistency to lead the franchise long-term.
Tomlin on the hot seat after Browns loss
The stakes for the Pittsburgh Steelers have reached a boiling point as they head into a winner-take-all Week 18 matchup against the Baltimore Ravens. Despite Mike Tomlin securing his 19th consecutive non-losing season, reports suggest that a loss and a subsequent failure to make the playoffs could mark the end of his historic tenure.
With NFL insiders indicating that the veteran coach might choose to walk away or seek a new challenge if the season ends in disappointment, the national conversation is firmly centered on Tomlin’s future depending on the Steelers vs Ravens result.
A defeat would not only hand the AFC North title to Baltimore but could also force a total organizational reset in Pittsburgh after nearly a decade without a postseason victory.