Steelers’ George Pickens Rips Officiating After Loss: “Can’t Play Bills And Refs At The Same Time”

George Pickens wasn’t happy with the officiating after Monday’s AFC Wild Card Game loss to the Buffalo Bills.

“You can’t play the Bills and the refs at the same time,” he told reporters after the 31-17 loss.

George Pickens: “You can’t play the Bills and the refs…

“… just politically, when you guys go back and watch the game, watch the refs.” pic.twitter.com/EGbqe5Oer2

— Mike DeFabo (@MikeDeFabo) January 16, 2024

The moment that Pickens seems to be referencing was when the Steelers were trailing 14 in the final minutes and went for it on fourth down. The pass was incomplete but it appeared a Bills defender wrapped his arms about Pickens’ waist and could’ve been flagged for pass interference.

It’s interesting that Pickens was unhappy with officiating considering one of the biggest controversial calls from the game went in the Steelers favor.

When reviewing plays, the ruling on the field is important. There must be definitive and conclusive evidence to change a call.

The ruling on the field in #PITvsBUF was Steeler's ball. This play comes down to whether the ball contacted Pat Freiermuth's helmet or not.

If it did… pic.twitter.com/6HaYq06HBD

— Gene Steratore (@GeneSteratore) January 15, 2024

A long offseason awaits the Pittsburgh Steelers as they have to make some tough decisions with their quarterback. All eyes will be on Mike Tomlin and what happens with him. Tomlin stormed out of the postgame press conference after being asked about his future in Pittsburgh.

Meanwhile, the Bills will have a rematch against the Kansas City Chiefs next Sunday at 6:30 p.m. ET on CBS in Highmark Stadium.