Zastudil stands out against Steelers

Tony Grossi's edge for Browns-Steelers

December 29, 2008

Offense

Browns conclude the season having not scored an offensive touchdown in six games - 24 quarters plus all but :13 of a 25th quarter. Watching Bruce Gradkowski try to run the offense left you wondering why didn't they put in Richard Bartel. Then again, the fifth quarterback is always the most popular guy in town, no?

EDGE: STEELERS

Defense

Willie McGinest looked like he left everything he had on the field. With a bum knee, Willie Parker has no business beating anybody to the edge, but he did. The Browns did knock Ben Roethlisberger out of the game with a concussion. Little consolation in that.

EDGE: STEELERS

Special teams

Hats off again to punter Dave Zastudil, who had another unbelievable game kicking with a sprained plant knee. On six punts, he averaged 48 yards gross and 45.3 yards net. Nobody else stood out.

EDGE: STEELERS

Coaching

Mike Tomlin might hear about playing Roethlisberger too long, but the Steelers entered the playoffs rusty last year and were ousted at home. It was the offensive line's fault for not protecting their franchise quarterback.
EDGE: STEELERS