Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Cleveland Browns: Betting Odds Analysis, Pick Prediction

The Cleveland Browns are 4-1 against the spread (ATS) the last five times they've played the Pittsburgh Steelers at home. Pittsburgh is 2-6 ATS the last eight times it's been lined as a dog on the road.

The Brownies and the Steelers clash in an AFC North rivalry bout Sunday afternoon in C-Town.

Point spread: The Browns opened as 2.5-point favorites; the total was 41.5. Line updates and matchup report, via Odds Shark.

Odds Shark computer prediction: 17.9-16.3 Steelers

Why the Steelers can cover the spread

After an 0-4 start, Pittsburgh has won and covered four of its last six games. A couple of weeks ago, the Steelers woke up the running game to the tune of 136 yards against Buffalo. Last week, they got a great performance from quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, who threw for 367 yards and four scores against Detroit.

Suddenly, Pittsburgh is a threat offensively, averaging 30 points over its last three games.

Why the Browns can cover the spread

Cleveland has been giving up some points lately, as three of its last five opponents have hit the 30-point mark, but the defense still ranks fifth overall and eighth versus the run. Jason Campbell has provided a measure of stability at quarterback, and the Browns have actually outgained their last three foes.

Also, the Brownies have won and covered three of their last four home games.

Smart Pick

Odds Shark's NFL computer is calling for Pittsburgh to win outright in a game that stays UNDER its total. Talent-wise, these two teams might not be that different. But Big Ben gives the Steelers the edge at the key position, and the Steelers have won five of the last six meetings in this series.

Take Pittsburgh.

Trends

• Browns are 4-1 ATS in the past five at home to the Steelers
• Steelers are 2-6 ATS in the past eight games as the road dog
• UNDER is 9-2 in the past 11 Steelers games within the division

Note: All spread and odds data powered by Odds Shark. Follow them on Twitter for injury and line move updates.