The Dallas Cowboys came up short in their 44-30 loss to the Detroit Lions on Thursday Night Football in Week 14. Dallas spent most of the game trying to keep pace with Detroit’s high-octane offense. With CeeDee Lamb ruled out early in the second half, the Cowboys needed George Pickens to step up. But the fourth-year wideout fell flat.
After the disheartening loss, Richard Sherman called Pickens out. The cornerback-turned-analyst said Pickens appeared “uninterested in playing football” and labeled his five-catch, 37-yard performance “unacceptable.” Sherman also noted that superstar receivers can’t disappear from big games.
Pickens seemed to agree with the last sentiment. “For myself, personally, you can’t just disappear,” he said when asked about the comments, per The Dallas Morning News’ Joseph Hoyt. Pickens also acknowledged having a tough time overcoming Detroit’s defensive scheme on Thursday night. “It just didn’t go our way,” he added.
George Pickens flops in Cowboys’ Week 14 loss
Pickens’ assessment is cold comfort for Cowboys’ fans. The loss snapped a three-game winning streak and dropped Dallas to 6-6-1. The Cowboy’s playoff odds took a major hit as the team will now need help to reach the postseason.
The disappearing act in Detroit could hit Pickens in the wallet. The wideout had been playing his way to a big payday in free agency. The Cowboys expressed interest in keeping Pickens in Dallas beyond this season, even at his predicted $30+ million per year salary.
However, Sherman questioned the wisdom of signing Pickens to a massive extension after his TNF flop. A no-show performance in a must-win game in prime time could end up being a deal-breaker.
Despite the Week 14 dud, Pickens is putting together a strong debut in Dallas. He’s already set new career highs with 78 receptions for 1,179 yards and eight touchdowns.
The Cowboys have a mini-bye before facing the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday Night Football. Dallas needs to win out and get some help to have a shot at the playoffs.
