Pittsburgh Steelers broad receiver George Pickens went viral and obtained some criticism after he said following the membership’s upset 24-19 loss on the Cleveland Browns on Thursday night time that he does not assume the Browns “are a superb workforce in any respect” and that the wintery conditions at Huntington Financial institution Discipline “type of saved” Cleveland.
Former Steelers cornerback and present analyst Bryant McFadden shared a special take whereas talking on CBS Sports HQ shortly after the top of Thursday’s contest.
“Now you gotta look yourselves within the mirror,” McFadden mentioned about Pittsburgh gamers, as shared by Troy Montgomery of Steelers Depot. “We have been patting the Pittsburgh Steelers on the again over the previous couple of weeks, deservedly so based mostly on their efficiency. Now, you actually have to have a look at your self within the mirror and get again to the little issues, consideration to particulars.”
Whereas Pittsburgh had received 5 consecutive video games heading into Thursday night time, there have been indicators the AFC North membership was extra a pretender than a reliable contender earlier than it fell to 8-3 on the marketing campaign. The Steelers scored zero touchdowns and, thus, wanted six Chris Boswell subject objectives for the second time this season in final Sunday’s 18-16 dwelling victory over the rival Baltimore Ravens.
ESPN Bet listed Pittsburgh as a 3.5-point favourite in opposition to Cleveland earlier than kickoff, however the guests then trailed all through the competition’s second half till receiver Calvin Austin III recorded a 23-yard landing catch with 6:15 remaining in regulation. Following a shanked punt, what is meant to be a top-tier Steelers protection surrendered a game-losing 45-yard landing drive whereas dealing with backup Cleveland quarterback Jameis Winston.
The Browns started the night time at 2-8 on the season.
“If you take a look at a workforce that has been thriving with the Pittsburgh Steelers,” McFadden continued, “you wish to see a greater begin on the street. That is a very powerful factor whenever you’re taking part in in opposition to a workforce that is spiraling within the flawed path.”
The Steelers may have some additional time to get well from this setback earlier than they start making ready for his or her sport on the 4-7 Cincinnati Bengals on Dec. 1. A Bengals workforce that has suffered six one-possession defeats this season entered its bye after final Sunday night time.
