The Pittsburgh Steelers lost in ugly fashion to the Dallas Cowboys in Week 5. It was one of those losses that left people feeling disheartened and confused. It wasn't one of those games where a finger of blame can be pointed at a specific player or position.
However, the most confusing part of the game, other than the loss, is what on earth was going on with wide receiver George Pickens . It all started with the revelation of his EyeBlack paint, which read, "Open f***ing always." Then it became obvious that Pickens wasn't playing as much as other receivers.
After the game, it was noted that Pickens only played 34 out of 58 snaps . Head Coach Mike Tomlin was asked about the snaps during his postgame press conference and he explained that it was part of "load management" for certain skill players. He indicated he does the same with Cameron Heyward.
However, Heyward is 35, Pickens is 23, and the team's only viable receiver. Pickens' frustration was obvious on the sidelines, so much so that teammates were moving away from him. He appeared not to give full effort when blocking, and then, at the end of the game, he displayed some truly despicable behavior.
Pickens was being taunted by Cowboys cornerback Jourdan Lewis, who got up in his face and waved the football at him. Rather than walk away, Pickens grabbed Lewis' helmet and twisted it by the facemask. George Pickens has ZERO class.
At a minimum, he should be fined and deserves to be suspended for a game. pic.twitter.
com/4idfNw3K.