The AFC North rivalry reached new levels of intensity during Week 12’s snowy Thursday Night Football game between the Cleveland Browns and Pittsburgh Steelers.
Known for its gritty and emotional clashes, this matchup lived up to its reputation, especially in a heated fourth quarter.
With Pittsburgh trailing 18-6 and pushing for points, controversy erupted after a two-yard loss on first-and-goal. Browns safety Grant Delpit was flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct, drawing attention when replays showed him grabbing Steelers receiver George Pickens’ mouthpiece and throwing it into the snow.
Delpit later addressed the incident on his Instagram story, sharing that Pickens had attempted to trip him before the play, adding context to the fiery exchange.
The tensions didn’t stop there. As the Browns sealed their 24-19 win, Pickens became embroiled in another dispute.
During a failed Hail Mary attempt, a scuffle broke out between Pickens and Browns cornerback Greg Newsome II, prompting intervention from officials and security.
While Pickens avoided penalties during the game, the league’s review process could result in fines for his involvement in the altercation.
