Browns Claim Tied Lead in AFC North After Five Straight Late Drives

The Cleveland Browns hold a 5-2 record and share first place in the AFC North with the Pittsburgh Steelers. The team has completed five winning drives in the fourth quarter this season. This late-game efficiency marks a departure from the franchise’s recent history.

Ideastream Public Media commentator Terry Pluto noted that the team’s current performance contrasts sharply with its previous two seasons. "When you're 8-26 (the past two seasons), you find every imaginable way to lose games," Pluto said. "When you finally get something good, don't dwell on all the bad things that could happen. Just enjoy it."

Head coach Todd Monken, in his first year leading the team, has shifted the organizational culture. He previously served as offensive coordinator for Cleveland in 2019 and for the Baltimore Ravens from 2023 through 2025. Monken rejected the long-standing perception that the Browns are destined for mediocrity. "Monken said, ‘We ain't taking that. These Browns are different,’” Pluto said.

Monken’s decision to start Deshaun Watson at quarterback drew initial skepticism due to Watson’s injury history and legal issues. Watson arrived in Cleveland in 2022. Pluto observed that Watson’s performance against Tennessee on Sunday was his best since his shoulder surgery in 2023. "I was like, I've seen enough of Deshaun Watson," Pluto said. "I'd rather look at Shedeur Sanders. Monken, you know, he gave (Watson) a shot."

Kicker Andre Szmyt has also contributed to the team’s success with three game-winning field goals. Pluto described Szmyt as an unsung hero who has delivered in critical moments. The defensive unit has also played a key role in securing these narrow victories.

General manager Andrew Berry has utilized additional draft picks gained from the Watson trade to improve the roster. Rookies KC Concepcion and Denzel Boston have made early impacts on the offense. The offensive line remains a developing unit, a status Monken refers to as being "under construction."

The Browns visit Pittsburgh on Sunday. A victory would grant Cleveland its first season sweep of the Steelers since 1988 and sole possession of first place in the division. Pluto called the matchup "gigantic" and viewed a double win over the Steelers as a major step for the team’s growing confidence.