The Pittsburgh Steelers will close out their 2025 NFL regular season with a pivotal Week 17 matchup against the Cleveland Browns, and the NFL has officially confirmed the kickoff time and broadcast details for this AFC North rivalry game.
Game Details
- Date: Sunday, December 28, 2025
- Kickoff Time: 1:00 PM Eastern Time
- Location: Huntington Bank Field — Cleveland, Ohio
- Television: CBS national broadcast
Matchup Context
The Pittsburgh Steelers (9–6) head into Week 17 still in strong position to secure the
AFC North division title and solidify their place in the playoff picture. Thanks to a three‑game winning streak and key victories — including a big Week 16 road win over the
Detroit Lions — Pittsburgh enters this divisional rivalry game as a slight favorite and with momentum on its side. A win here or a Ravens loss elsewhere will clinch the division for the Steelers.
Their opponent, the Cleveland Browns (3–12), are looking to end their season on a competitive note in front of the home crowd. Cleveland has faced a difficult campaign, but rivalry games against Pittsburgh are always intense regardless of records. The Browns will be motivated to finish strong and spoil the Steelers’ division aspirations in this late‑season clash.
What to Watch
- Quarterback Play: Pittsburgh’s offense, led by Aaron Rodgers, will look to sustain drives and limit mistakes. Rodgers’ ability to protect the football and make big plays in critical moments will be central to the Steelers’ success. Meanwhile, Cleveland’s quarterbackShedeur Sanders will look to challenge Pittsburgh’s secondary and create explosive opportunities for his receivers.
- Defensive Matchups: The Steelers’ defense will focus on disrupting Cleveland’s offensive rhythm and creating turnovers. Defensive pressure, especially from the front seven, could swing momentum early. The Browns’ defense, led byMyles Garrett, will aim to make life difficult for Pittsburgh’s passing attack and force long third‑down situations.
- Playoff Implications: This game carries significant meaning for Pittsburgh. A win would put the Steelers firmly in control of theAFC North title and enhance their playoff seeding, potentially securing a more favorable route in the postseason. For Cleveland, while the postseason is out of reach, a victory here would inject confidence and pride as the team heads into offseason evaluations.
Atmosphere and Importance
Huntington Bank Field is expected to be lively as Browns fans rally behind their team for the final home game of the season. Rivalry games like this — often referred to as part of the
Turnpike Rivalry — are steeped in history and bring extra intensity regardless of standings. A road victory in this environment would be a meaningful statement for Pittsburgh.
Final Notes
The
Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Cleveland Browns Week 17 game is set to kickoff at 1:00 PM ET on Sunday, December 28, 2025, at Huntington Bank Field in Cleveland, Ohio. With CBS providing national coverage and playoff positioning on the line for Pittsburgh, this AFC North showdown promises compelling football and high stakes as the regular season comes to a close.
