Myles Garrett on the Brink of NFL History Against the Steelers

Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett is poised to break the NFL's single-season sack record, entering Week 17 with 22 sacks—just one sack shy of the record held by Michael Strahan and T.J. Watt. Garrett's pursuit of this milestone will unfold during a critical matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he hopes to achieve this feat against either the legendary quarterback Aaron Rodgers or backup Mason Rudolph, depending on the outcome of a preceding game between the Baltimore Ravens and Green Bay Packers.

Garrett Downplays Setting NFL Sack Record on RudolphBleacher ReportUnfinished Biz: Myles Garrett could break sack record vs Mason RudolphMyles Garrett’s record-setting moment could come with a dramatic twistHeavyESPNMyles Garrett Delivers Bizarre Statement On His Relationship With Steelers' Mason RudolphCBS SportsJames Harrison Says Myles Garrett ‘Damn Sure Ain’t’ Breaking Sack Record Against Steelers

Garrett has expressed that it would be "special" to break the record against Rodgers, whom he regards as a legendary figure in the sport. "That'd be a great one to put a picture on the wall with," Garrett stated, highlighting the significance of the moment. However, if the Ravens lose, the Steelers will clinch the AFC North title, potentially leading to the decision to rest key players, including Rodgers.

Bleacher Report

The matchup carries additional weight due to the infamous 2019 incident between Garrett and Rudolph, where Garrett was suspended for striking Rudolph with his helmet during a brawl. Despite this history, Garrett downplayed its significance, stating, "I don’t think there’s a lot of history between the two of us... it makes no difference to me as long as I get it." This incident remains a notable chapter in the rivalry between the Browns and Steelers, adding a layer of intrigue to Garrett's record chase.

HeavyMyles Garrett’s record-setting moment could come with a dramatic twistMyles Garrett Delivers Bizarre Statement On His Relationship With Steelers' Mason RudolphGarrett Downplays Setting NFL Sack Record on RudolphBleacher ReportSteelers' James Harrison Issues Bold Statement To Browns' Myles Garrett Before Record-Breaking SackJames Harrison Says Myles Garrett ‘Damn Sure Ain’t’ Breaking Sack Record Against SteelersUnfinished Biz: Myles Garrett could break sack record vs Mason Rudolph

The Steelers, aware of Garrett's pursuit, are determined to prevent him from achieving this milestone. Former Steelers linebacker James Harrison boldly predicted that Garrett would not break the record against Pittsburgh, emphasizing that the Steelers' offensive line would do everything possible to protect their quarterback. "He damn sure ain’t breaking the record this week," Harrison asserted. Steelers coach Mike Tomlin acknowledged Garrett's impact, stating, "Myles Garrett has certainly been an issue for us in that venue."

James Harrison Says Myles Garrett ‘Damn Sure Ain’t’ Breaking Sack Record Against SteelersSteelers' James Harrison Issues Bold Statement To Browns' Myles Garrett Before Record-Breaking SackGarrett Downplays Setting NFL Sack Record on RudolphESPNMyles Garrett Delivers Bizarre Statement On His Relationship With Steelers' Mason RudolphUnfinished Biz: Myles Garrett could break sack record vs Mason RudolphMyles Garrett’s record-setting moment could come with a dramatic twist

Garrett's performance this season has been remarkable, with at least one sack recorded in 12 of the Browns' 15 games. He has consistently been a dominant force, leading the league in sacks despite the Browns' struggles. Tomlin noted the Steelers' recent difficulties in Cleveland, where they have a record of 1-5-1 since 2018, attributing some of that to Garrett's prowess.

Unfinished Biz: Myles Garrett could break sack record vs Mason RudolphGarrett Downplays Setting NFL Sack Record on RudolphESPNJames Harrison Says Myles Garrett ‘Damn Sure Ain’t’ Breaking Sack Record Against SteelersHeavySteelers' James Harrison Issues Bold Statement To Browns' Myles Garrett Before Record-Breaking SackBleacher ReportMyles Garrett Delivers Bizarre Statement On His Relationship With Steelers' Mason RudolphMyles Garrett’s record-setting moment could come with a dramatic twist

As the game approaches, the outcome of the Ravens-Packers matchup will significantly influence the Steelers' strategy. If the Ravens lose, Pittsburgh may opt to rest starters, including Rodgers, which would set the stage for Rudolph to take the field against Garrett. Regardless of the circumstances, Garrett's pursuit of the record remains a focal point as the Browns aim to finish the season on a high note.

Heavy

• “It'd be special. He's legendary himself, and it's a legendary record I'm here chasing,” — Myles Garrett, Cleveland Browns Defensive End

Bleacher Report

• “He damn sure ain’t breaking the record this week,” — James Harrison, Former Pittsburgh Steelers Linebacker

James Harrison Says Myles Garrett ‘Damn Sure Ain’t’ Breaking Sack Record Against Steelers

• “Myles Garrett has certainly been an issue for us in that venue.” — Mike Tomlin, Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach

Garrett Downplays Setting NFL Sack Record on Rudolph

As the narrative unfolds, the intersection of personal achievement and team dynamics will shape the outcome of this highly anticipated matchup.

CBS Sports