Steelers' TJ Watt Victim Of Myles Garrett's Strange Motivational Technique: 'It Was A Joke'

The Pittsburgh Steelers are getting ready to match up against the Cleveland Browns again in Week 14. After losing during Week 12, 24-19, Head Coach Mike Tomlin told the players that this game was not about getting revenge, but about getting better. Several defensive players, like Payton Wilson and Joey Porter Jr., told the media they aren't focused on redeeming themselves as much as they are just playing their best game. 

One of the most anticipated matchups in this rivalry is the comparison between edge rusher TJ Watt , and defensive end Myles Garrett. They also battle for the AP Defensive Player of the Year Award (DPOY) almost yearly. Watt won the award in 2021, and many felt he was a shoo-in to win again in 2023, but it went to Garrett, despite Watt statistically outperforming him across the board.

Watt was clearly frustrated and responded with a flippant tweet, but Watt's older brother, JJ Watt, was a bit more expressive in his complaints about the voting process. Mary Kay Cabot shared that she spoke with Garrett, and comments the Watts made hurt his feelings. She implied Garrett played better than TJ in the Week 12 game because they "poked the bear" and "stole his thunder." Garrett was asked about his comments in a recent interview. 

"I mean, it was a joke when I said I'd make him apologize," said Garrett. "I take the games against the Steelers personal 'cause they're the rivalry game. Everyone in the division is a personal game. Whether it's the battle of Ohio, whether it's the Ravens, whatever it is, you have to create and add motivation because it means more to the organization, it means more to the fans, and ultimately means more to the players. All that stuff, all that history, all that tradition, it gets funneled into you over time. I have a lot of respect for TJ, what he does, and you know how talented he is, but our teams are matched up, and I want to be the best player on the field just like he does, so I look forward to doing that."

Neither of the Watts were disrespectful about Garrett, nor did they take a shot at his talent. However, TJ explained his complaint isn't with his rival, but rather the voting system. 

In the Week 12 game, Garrett had a bigger impact than TJ, who had only four tackles. Garrett had five tackles, three sacks, a forced fumble, and three quarterback hits. Of course, the two are getting ready to tee off against each other again, and feelings are still fresh, so all eyes will be on the two DPOYs to see who comes out on top this time.

The Steelers Are Stuck In The Browns' Mind

It isn't just Garrett that is talking about the Steelers. Word on the street is that the Browns are planning to target George Pickens this game and hope to get in his head. Pickens was busy fighting with the Browns defenders during their last game, and they hope it will cost the Steelers yardage this time. 

Browns defender Greg Newsome II and Pickens have been firing shots back and forth this week. Pickens has doubled down on his postgame comment that the Browns aren't a good team, even though he was only able to obtain four catches for 48 yards in the last game.  

Newsome called Pickens "a fake tough guy" regarding the altercation the two had at the end of the game. When Pickens was asked about that comment, he said he didn't know who Newsome was. 

The Steelers must channel that energy into their play in the upcoming game. While Pittsburgh is favored, the Browns are unpredictable and challenging. They cannot underestimate them.