Browns vs. Steelers: 6 Positives from Cleveland's Tough Defeat

The Cleveland Browns played extremely hard on the road against the Pittsburgh Steelers, but Pat Shurmur's young team was ultimately let down by costly mistakes at crucial moments on both sides of the ball.

There is certainly no shame in running the Steelers close at Heinz Field, especially for a rebuilding team. But the young Browns spurned several promising opportunities to come away with a season defining victory.

An inability to make big plays in clutch situations on offense and a penchant for surrendering them on defense continue to plague the Browns.

But the fiercely contested AFC North showdown did offer some promise for Cleveland's future. Here are six positives to emerge from the Browns' tough loss.

6. Punter Brad Maynard

Punter Brad Maynard was exceptional all game. Maynard's booming kicks forced the Steelers to begin several drives from inside their own 10-yard line.

This created a clear advantage in field position, which played a significant part in the Browns' keeping the game close for so long.

Even though usually reliable placekicker Phil Dawson has appeared shaky in recent weeks, Maynard remains a smart and dependable weapon in the kicking game.

The Browns can rest easy in the knowledge that they have a punter able to compliment their steadily emerging defense.

5. The Defense Managed to Stand Up to the Steelers Power Game

Just a few short days removed from being victimised by Ray Rice and the Baltimore Ravens, the Cleveland defense did a respectable job of resisting the power rushing attack of the Steelers.

The Browns have been routinely overpowered on the ground this season. But they showed signs of improvement at crucial times against their hated rival.

Pittsburgh's passing game may have emerged as the signature of the offense this season, but the Steelers still welcome the chance to trample all over the opposition.

Despite the Steelers' overly aggressive offensive line and hulking, blocking back David Johnson, the Browns defense matched Pittsburgh's ground attack power for power for most of the game.

The second half goal-line stand epitomised Cleveland's efforts. On four straight plays, the Steelers handed the ball off and attempted to bulldoze their way into the end zone.

Led by punishing tackling from Chris Gocong, the Browns defense swarmed all over ball-carriers and repelled the Black and Gold, forcing a turnover on downs.

There is still plenty of work to be done with the run defense. But if the front seven can reproduce this level of aggression at the point of attack, the unit will be headed in the right direction.

4. The Performance of D'Qwell Jackson

The Browns' more resolute showing against the run was spearheaded by a ferocious performance from middle linebacker D'Qwell Jackson. Playing behind huge defensive tackles Ahtyba Rubin and Phillips Taylor has enabled Jackson to excel in the Browns' 4-3 scheme.

Several times against the Steelers, Jackson was able shoot gaps and meet ball-carriers in the hole. He delivered some crushing hits, including his hammer blow on Hines Ward, forcing a first-quarter fumble.

The Browns may need help at linebacker, but they should concentrate on equipping the outside areas with more athletic playmakers.

With Jackson in the lineup, the Browns are secure and solid at the most important position on their defense.

3. Alex Smith Shows the Potential to Be an Effective Weapon

After another feeble showing from the offense, it's almost a guilty feeling to offer anything close to praise for a single member of the unit. But tight end Alex Smith could become an effective weapon in the passing game if the Browns choose to look his way more often.

The journeyman tight end is an interesting player. At 6'4" and 258 pounds, the 29-year-old offers a versatile skill set. He possesses the speed and height to stretch the seams and be a threat in the hook and curl zones. His strength should also allow him to out-muscle defensive backs in coverage.

Smith has not caught many passes, but he has managed a respectable 9.4 yards-per-reception average. Ben Watson and Evan Moore have failed to truly convince, and Smith could increase the reliability and big-play potential of Cleveland's receiving corps.

2. The Pass Rush Continues to Be Strong

They may have only sacked Ben Roethlisberger once, but the Browns defense continued to look dangerous rushing the passer.

Rookie Jabaal Sheard posed a consistent threat off the strong side of the formation, and Ahtyba Rubin created plenty of push inside.

The improvements made by the pass rush have really justified the switch to a 4-3. A strong amount of pressure from the front four is almost a guarantee in any game.

Brian Schaefering and Scott Paxson have proven themselves to be effective contributors, and the Browns can now rely on a powerful and aggressive line rotation.

1. The Steelers Know They'll Be in for a Fight in the Rematch

Say what you want about the Steelers, but you have to match them for determination and aggression. The Browns certainly managed that at Heinz Field.

Cleveland can take plenty of pride and optimism into the rematch, scheduled for the final week of the season.

The Browns' front seven was able to carry the fight to the Steelers in the trenches. With better pass protection, decision-making and more efficiency on offense, the Browns could end their season in style.