In a frustrating defeat for the Pittsburgh Steelers, rookie quarterback Kenny Pickett’s performance was marred by key mistakes that ultimately cost his team the game. After the Steelers’ 24-17 loss to the Baltimore Ravens in Week 13, wide receiver George Pickens spoke candidly about the turning points in the game, focusing on the crucial fumble and a pick-six thrown by Pickett that significantly hindered Pittsburgh’s chances of mounting a comeback.

Despite a strong defensive performance and several moments of offensive promise, the Steelers’ inability to capitalize on opportunities left them with a bitter taste after the game. Pickett’s two critical turnovers—an interception returned for a touchdown (pick-six) and a fumble in the pocket—proved to be the difference in a hard-fought, divisional battle.

The Pick-Six and Fumble That Changed the Game

The first major mistake came early in the game, when Kenny Pickett, under pressure, threw an ill-advised pass that was intercepted by Ravens linebacker Roquan Smith. Smith, showing quick reflexes, returned the pick for a touchdown, giving the Ravens a commanding 14-3 lead. The pick-six not only handed Baltimore easy points but also allowed the Ravens’ defense to gain momentum early in the game.

Pickett, visibly frustrated after the interception, was later involved in another turnover—this time, a fumble in the second half. With the game still within reach, Pickett was sacked by Ravens defensive lineman Calais Campbell, who forced the fumble, giving Baltimore the ball deep in Steelers territory. The Ravens capitalized on the turnover, adding another field goal to extend their lead and essentially sealing the victory.

Pickett’s Accountability and Perspective

After the game, Pickett took full responsibility for his errors, calling the turnovers “unacceptable” and acknowledging how they undermined the Steelers’ chances. “I’ve got to protect the football better,” Pickett said in the postgame interview. “The fumble, the pick-six—it’s on me. Those are plays that cannot happen, especially in a tight game like this. I’ve got to be better for my team.”

The rookie quarterback expressed his frustration with his inability to execute in crucial moments. “I let the team down,” he said, his voice tinged with disappointment. “Those turnovers were a huge part of the outcome. I need to clean that up going forward if we want to have a shot at the playoffs.”

The Steelers’ Offensive Struggles

While Pickett’s mistakes were the obvious game-changers, the Steelers’ offense struggled to find a consistent rhythm throughout the game. Running back Najee Harris was held to just 54 rushing yards on 16 carries, and the passing attack was inconsistent, with Pickett finishing with under 200 passing yards on 22 completions. Despite flashes of strong playmaking, the Steelers’ offense was unable to sustain drives and capitalize on opportunities.

Additionally, Pittsburgh’s offensive line failed to provide consistent protection for Pickett, allowing the Ravens’ front seven to apply pressure, contributing to the fumble and a few other rushed throws from the quarterback.

Looking Ahead

The Steelers’ loss to Baltimore dealt a serious blow to their playoff hopes. At 6-6, they are fighting to stay in contention for a wild card spot in the AFC. With games against tough opponents like the Cleveland Browns and Kansas City Chiefs remaining on the schedule, Pittsburgh’s margin for error is shrinking rapidly. Pickett, who had shown signs of progress earlier in the season, will need to bounce back from these costly turnovers and lead the offense more effectively if the Steelers are to make a late-season push for the postseason.

In the wake of the loss, head coach Mike Tomlin echoed his quarterback’s sentiment, calling the turnovers “killer plays” that left the team with too much ground to make up. However, Tomlin also expressed confidence in his young quarterback’s ability to learn and grow from the mistakes. “He’s a competitor,” Tomlin said of Pickett. “He’ll bounce back, and so will the team. But those mistakes can’t happen again.”

For Pickett and the Steelers, the road ahead remains difficult, but with their defense still playing at a high level, it will be up to the offense to avoid costly errors like the ones they committed against Baltimore.