George Pickens Calls Out Steelers' Poor Preparation In Ravens Playoff Disaster

The Pittsburgh Steelers came out against the Baltimore Ravens with hopes of ending their losing streak. They couldn’t do it and lost 28-14. In an unusual move for a team known for slow starts, Mike Tomlin elected to receive after winning the coin toss, but the offense failed to capitalize. By the time Russell Wilson and George Pickens found their rhythm, the game was already out of reach. Another season ended in disaster, extending the Steelers’ playoff drought and leaving fans searching for answers.

After the game, Pickens didn’t shy away from sharing his thoughts. When asked about the offense’s persistent struggles with slow starts, Pickens offered a revealing comment, suggesting that the team’s preparation wasn’t where it needed to be.

Pickens’ remarks raise serious questions about the Steelers’ approach, both in coaching and execution. With their playoff hopes dashed yet again, attention now shifts to how the organization plans to address these glaring problems. For a team with championship aspirations, falling short like this is becoming an all-too-familiar trend.

"I'd probably say just getting the guys ready," Pickens said. "When you come out and guys are trying, guys are trying their hardest-the game of football is just gonna happen. Guys are gonna get upfield. They've got good players that get paid, too. So, just trying our best to come out fast."

Pickens, of course, didn’t directly call out any coaches or explicitly blame them for poor preparation. However, his comments about getting the team ready naturally raise questions about responsibility. It’s fair to assume that this critique could point toward Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith, Tomlin, or perhaps a combination of both. 

The Steelers’ inability to strike early has been a recurring issue during their losing streak, and falling behind against top-tier teams makes winning nearly impossible, especially given Pittsburgh's offensively conservative philosophies. That pattern has been painfully evident throughout this rough stretch.

Earlier in the season, when the Steelers were 10-3, these slow starts were easier to overlook. The team had a knack for hanging around just long enough for Wilson to deliver some late-game heroics, shifting momentum and sparking the offense. But when facing elite quarterbacks like Lamar Jackson, Patrick Mahomes, Jalen Hurts, or Joe Burrow, falling behind early is a death sentence. The Steelers simply can’t afford to play from behind against such dynamic talent.

This losing streak has exposed just how damaging those early-game struggles can be. Against top competition, Pittsburgh's offense hasn't found a way to keep pace, and without significant adjustments, their aspirations of contending will remain out of reach. Preparation and execution must improve to stop this troubling trend.

Steelers Set To Have Some Major Headlines In The 2025 Offseason

The upcoming offseason promises to be pivotal for the Steelers. The offense remains far from meeting expectations, and the organization faces critical decisions regarding player contracts, the quarterback position, and even the futures of the coordinators and head coach. With so much uncertainty, all eyes will be on how the front office navigates this critical period.

Steelers owner Art Rooney II expressed frustration following the 2023 season, admitting his growing impatience with the team’s lack of postseason success. After yet another disappointing season, many fans are questioning whether this will finally prompt significant changes within the organization.

From personnel moves to potential shifts in leadership, the offseason could bring a much-needed shakeup—or leave fans disappointed if the status quo remains. One thing is certain: the pressure is mounting in Pittsburgh.

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