Steelers Get Blasted By Former Browns WR For Nightmare Playoff Loss: 'Dog Walk In The Park With Them'

The Pittsburgh Steelers' 2020 playoff journey ended with a disappointing loss to their rivals, the Cleveland Browns, in a 48-37 defeat. The game began with a series of setbacks, including miscommunications and a botched snap, setting a dismal tone for the Steelers. Despite being at home, they found themselves facing a substantial deficit early in the playoffs, as the Browns unleashed a fervent performance, treating the game like their own Super Bowl.

By the end of the first quarter, the Steelers trailed 28-0, marking one of the worst starts in recent memory for Steelers fans, particularly in such a crucial matchup. Despite their efforts to rally, the Steelers fell short in their comeback attempt.

Baker Mayfield led the Browns' offense with 263 passing yards and three touchdowns, while Ben Roethlisberger launched an astonishing 68 passes in his bid to reignite the Steelers' offense. Ultimately, Roethlisberger amassed an impressive 501 yards, along with four touchdowns and four interceptions.

Rashard Higgins, a former wide receiver for the Browns, shared the significance of defeating the Steelers in the playoffs during an interview with Cleveland Browns Daily. This victory stood as one of the most meaningful in Browns history, while simultaneously delivering a gut-wrenching blow to Steelers fans.

"The Steelers at home and we just had a dog walk in the park with them. We wanted to go to the playoffs so bad. We knew what we needed to do."

Higgins secured only two catches for 28 receiving yards throughout the game. Reflecting on the victory over the Steelers, he expressed the exhilarating sensation of the post-game celebration.

"That feeling, that celebration in the locker room. We partied like it was 1999 again. It was amazing."

The game remains a painful memory for many Steelers fans, one they'd rather forget. Yet, it's a moment that Browns fans gleefully seize upon to mock the Steelers for their loss. However, it's crucial to keep perspective: the Steelers boast a remarkable six Super Bowl victories, and one playoff defeat to the Browns doesn't change the narrative. 

The Browns' attitude towards a playoff triumph speaks volumes about their historically troubled franchise. However, recent seasons have seen a transformation in the Browns' fortunes, making them formidable rivals within the division for the Steelers. With an upgraded offense, formidable defense, skilled coaching staff, and all the necessary components for success in the NFL, the Browns now stand as worthy adversaries. 

Steelers And Browns Rivalry Set To Heat Up In 2024

The flames of rivalry between these two storied organizations have been reignited, and the Steelers are brimming with anticipation to reclaim victory against the Browns in 2024. With the entire AFC North brimming with talent, the Steelers could still be poised to defy expectations and stun pundits by clinching the division title with their revamped offense.

With both teams reaching new heights of competitiveness, the divisional rivalry has reached unprecedented intensity, fueled by mutual disdain among fans. This dynamic exemplifies the thrilling essence of NFL divisions and the intense rivalries they foster.

However, the situation with the Browns stands apart. Their prolonged struggles have elicited a sense of pity from Steelers fans, despite the fierce rivalry. While Browns supporters remain steadfast in their loyalty, the organization is finally emerging as a genuine contender once again.

Meanwhile, the Steelers are striving to reestablish themselves as formidable contenders on the NFL stage. Since their last playoff victory in the 2016 season, they've been eager to break that dry spell. Remarkably, neither team has tasted playoff success since their clash in the 2021 postseason, intensifying the stakes of their rivalry.

The idea that Browns fans still point to this game as a way to make fun of the Steelers is a little bit silly. However, it's fair. On that day, the Browns beat the Steelers, but let's not get it twisted. There are levels to this.