Browns edge Steelers 27-24 on Aaron Rodgers’ Thursday Night farewell

The Cleveland Browns defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 27-24 on Oct. 2, 2026, in a Thursday Night Football showdown at Huntington Bank Field, giving Cleveland its third consecutive victory and moving the team into first place in the AFC North.

Deshaun Watson, a leading candidate for an early‑season comeback story, completed 20 of 32 passes for 268 yards and one touchdown. His drive in the fourth quarter positioned the Browns for a decisive field‑goal attempt.

Aaron Rodgers, playing what was advertised as his final Thursday Night game after a 22‑season career, posted 299 passing yards, three touchdowns and two interceptions. The loss dropped his Thursday Night record to 13-8, leaving him one win short of tying Tom Brady’s record of 14 Thursday Night victories.

The contest remained tied at 24 after an eight‑play, 80‑yard Steelers drive in the fourth quarter. The Browns responded with a seven‑play possession that moved the ball into field‑goal range, and Andre Szmyt drilled a 56‑yard kick to put Cleveland ahead with just under two minutes remaining.

Both teams entered the game with winning records in the opening weeks of the season. The Steelers, however, continued a streak of zero wins on the road against AFC North opponents, falling to 0-10 in such games. Their loss also marked the 150th meeting between the rivals, who are separated by only 135 miles.

Coach Mike McCarthy of Pittsburgh saw his Thursday Night record fall to 11-5, while the Browns’ victory kept their early‑season surge alive as they prepare to travel to New York to face the Jets in Week 5. The Steelers will host the Indianapolis Colts on Oct. 11.