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Why Week 4 game vs. Browns is huge test for Steelers’ Mike McCarthy

Mike McCarthy passed his first big test as the Pittsburgh Steelers head coach with their 30-27 Week 3 win over the Cincinnati Bengals.

Published: Wednesday, 30 September 2026 at 11:31 PM
Why Week 4 game vs. Browns is huge test for Steelers’ Mike McCarthy
Key Things to Know
  • Adam Gretz argues the Week 4 game against the Browns is an essential test for Mike McCarthy's Steelers.
  • The writer views the 30-27 Week 3 win over the Bengals as typical rather than definitive proof of progress.
  • Pittsburgh holds a 2-5-1 record in their past eight trips to Cleveland, with three consecutive losses.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Adam Gretz argues that the Pittsburgh Steelers' upcoming Week 4 game against the Cleveland Browns is a critical test for head coach Mike McCarthy. Although Pittsburgh secured a 30-27 divisional victory over the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 3, Gretz suggests that success against Cincinnati is standard for the franchise and does not yet prove meaningful change under McCarthy.

Gretz highlights that Pittsburgh has historically struggled in Cleveland, posting a 2-5-1 record in their last eight visits, including three straight losses. The writer contends that winning and generating strong offensive production on a Thursday night in Cleveland would indicate genuine progress for McCarthy's offense.

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