George Pickens says browns aren't "A good team" after steelers' TNF loss

The Pittsburgh Steelers suffered a 24-19 loss to the Cleveland Browns on Thursday night at Huntington Bank Field. Despite the defeat, wide receiver George Pickens was unshaken by the Browns ' performance, instead attributing the outcome to the snow that blanketed the field. "The conditions played a huge, huge part in today’s game," Pickens said when asked what the Steelers should take away from the loss. "I don’t really think the Cleveland Browns are a good team at all. I think the conditions kinda saved them today." Pickens' frustration was evident, as the Steelers dominated in several key statistical categories, including total yards and turnovers. The Steelers (8-3) outgained the Browns (3-8) 368-304 and won the turnover battle 3-1. Cleveland also struggled on third downs, converting just one of 10 attempts, though they were perfect on fourth down, converting all four of their attempts. Despite these statistical advantages, the Steelers were unable to capitalize on their opportunities. The game remained close, with the Browns maintaining a lead throughout the second half. Pittsburgh took a brief 19-18 lead with 6:15 remaining in the game when quarterback Russell Wilson connected with Calvin Austin III on a 23-yard touchdown pass. However, a 15-yard punt shanked by Corliss Waitman gave Cleveland excellent field position. Running back Nick Chubb then scored a 2-yard touchdown with 57 seconds left to reclaim the lead for the Browns. The Steelers had one last chance, driving 29 yards, but Wilson’s final pass to the end zone fell incomplete, sealing the loss. Pickens, who had four catches for 48 yards on seven targets, was involved in a brief altercation with Browns cornerback Greg Newsome II after the game. While Pickens remained focused on the conditions, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin offered a more measured assessment of the game. "I thought (the Browns) brought it tonight," Tomlin said in his postgame press conference. "They made more plays over the course of 60 minutes than we did." Despite the loss, the Steelers are still in a strong position at 8-3, but the defeat highlighted missed opportunities and areas for improvement moving forward. The Steelers and Browns will meet again on Dec. 8 in Pittsburgh.