George Pickens, the former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver who recently joined the Dallas Cowboys, sparked controversy with his claim that the Cowboys are synonymous with winning Super Bowls. Despite the franchise’s lack of conference appearances for nearly three decades, Pickens praised the Cowboys’ legendary status and the passionate energy of the team’s supporters in Texas.
Pickens expressed his admiration during an interview on 105.3 The Fan, saying the Cowboys’ reputation is built on their Super Bowl history and the strong camaraderie among fans eagerly hoping to see the team reach that level again. These comments, however, drew sharp criticism from sportscaster Stephen A. Smith, who challenged Pickens’ appraisal of the Cowboys in comparison to the Steelers, Pickens’ former team.
George Pickens Praises Cowboys’ Super Bowl Legacy and Fan Energy
Jon Machota reported Pickens’ enthusiastic remarks about his new team, where he described the Dallas Cowboys as a franchise known for their Super Bowl success and loyal followers. Pickens said,
“I’ve been watching the Cowboys for years. I’ve always wanted to see them back in the Super Bowl. That’s why they’re so legendary, for that reason. The Cowboys, like I said, are known for the Super Bowl. If they weren’t known for that then no one would care about the Cowboys. They’re known for that and then the camaraderie of the people give that same energy, because they also want to see it again.”
—George Pickens, Dallas Cowboys Wide Receiver
While Pickens’ sentiment about the devotion of Cowboys fans rings true, the team’s Super Bowl drought has stretched since their last conference championship appearance in 1995. The Cowboys have struggled to maintain their status as genuine contenders, and although owner Jerry Jones has succeeded in keeping the franchise in the media spotlight, championships have remained elusive for more than 30 years.
Stephen A. Smith Criticizes Pickens’ Remarks on Cowboys and Super Bowls
Stephen A. Smith did not hesitate to address Pickens’ statement during ESPN’s First Take broadcast. Smith highlighted the historical successes of the Pittsburgh Steelers, pointing out that the Steelers have a more decorated Super Bowl record than the Cowboys. Smith said:
“Here’s the deal. George Pickens do you have any idea when you talk about Super Bowl and the Cowboys you do understand that the Steelers are a more successful franchise. Did you know that? Do you understand what the h*ll you’re saying…I’m sorry I got to call him out on that.”
—Stephen A. Smith, ESPN Sportscaster
Smith’s criticism focused on the fact that the Steelers have won six Super Bowls, surpassing the Cowboys’ five titles. Moreover, the Steelers have had more recent success in reaching conference championships, making seven appearances after the Cowboys’ 1995 win over Pittsburgh in the Super Bowl.
Pittsburgh Steelers’ Records Surpass Cowboys’ Recent Achievements
The Steelers last made a Super Bowl appearance in the 2010 season, just 15 years ago, compared to the Cowboys’ 1995 championship. Despite this, the Steelers’ playoff performances since then have been inconsistent. Their most recent playoff victory came on January 15, 2017, against the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium. Since that win, the Steelers have lost six consecutive playoff games, starting with the 2017 AFC Championship defeat against the New England Patriots.
While the Steelers boast a proud history and a more successful franchise record overall, they currently face struggles in breaking recent playoff droughts. Adding to the pressure, their new quarterback Aaron Rodgers, acquired to rejuvenate the team, faces skepticism regarding his ability to reverse the streak.
Texas Football Culture and Cowboys’ Enduring Fan Devotion
Texas’s deep-rooted passion for football keeps the Cowboys firmly in the spotlight, regardless of recent on-field performance. The team’s followers have patiently awaited a return to championship prominence, supported by the ongoing effort of owner Jerry Jones to maintain the club’s relevance. Pickens’ remarks reflect this fan base’s hopeful mindset, even as the franchise’s glory days feel increasingly distant.
Stephen A. Smith’s rebuke brings to light the ongoing debate over the Cowboys’ legacy versus the Steelers’ success, illustrating the intense rivalry between these franchises and their fan communities. Pickens’ confident claim has not only sparked spirited discussions among sports analysts but also underscored the high expectations placed on players transitioning between teams with storied pasts.
What This Means for the Cowboys, Steelers, and George Pickens Going Forward
George Pickens’ statement has reignited conversations around the Cowboys’ identity and legacy in the NFL. For a franchise long admired yet starved for recent success, the pressure to live up to a reputation built decades ago is immense. The Cowboys’ fanbase remains eager for a resurgence that can restore the team’s standing as a Super Bowl powerhouse.
Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Steelers face their own challenges in overcoming recent playoff disappointments as they look to capitalize on their historical success. With Aaron Rodgers now leading the team, expectations are mixed on whether the Steelers will quickly return to championship contention.
As both franchises navigate the complexities of modern NFL competition, comments like those from Pickens and the reactions they provoke highlight the high stakes and passionate debates surrounding team legacies, player loyalties, and the pursuit of new championships.