The Browns shocked the football world with their victory over rival Steelers last night, and while Cleveland fans savor the sweet taste of a victory in Monday’s playoff, at least one Steeler is more on the salty side.
Pittsburgh receiver Chase Claypool went to TikTok Live on Monday after his team’s 49-38 loss to Cleveland and admitted that he and his teammates played badly. If Cleveland’s 28-0 series in the first quarter – a record production for most points in the first quarter of a playoff game, by the way – was not enough proof, Claypool ensured that those watching knew that the Steelers are aware defeat was ugly.
That said, Claypool still hasn’t exactly shown much respect for the team that had a 35-10 lead over its Steelers at Sunday night’s break.
“Bad loss, but, um, the Browns are going to applaud next week,” Claypool said in a video republished by ESPN, “so it’s okay.”
Claypool’s opinion is somewhat valid, as the Browns’ advance beyond the Steelers puts them on a straight path to the home of the Super Bowl champions. The Browns have no better defense, giving up 553 yards of attack for the Steelers, who pitched for 501 yards in a desperate return attempt on Sunday night. But they have a knack for forcing turnovers, registering five takeaways in the wild card victory.
We have an entire week to analyze the Cleveland Divisional Round clash with Kansas City, which we will certainly discuss until we are sad. But this is the game of the Browns and Chiefs to win or lose. Claypool will sit at home, just to hope that the team that applauded his squad will receive such treatment from another.