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MIKE TOMLIN has demanded George Pickens “grows up” after his antics against the Cincinnati Bengals.
The 23-year-old wide receiver was crucial in the 44-38 win for the Pittsburgh Steelers to keep them at the top of the AFC North.
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But Pickens also nearly cost his team after being flagged twice for unsportsmanlike conduct.
Head Coach Tomlin raged after the game, saying: “He’s just got to grow up, man.
“This is an emotional game, man. These divisional games are big.
“He got a target on his back because he’s George, he understands that.
“But he’s got to grow up. He’s got to grow up in a hurry.”
Pickens led the Steelers with 74 yards receiving on three catches with a touchdown.
But he drew 15-yard penalties for firstly dropping the ball on Bengals linebacker Germaine Pratt’s face after scoring.
And he later raised his right hand and made a gun gesture.
Referee Shawn Hochuli revealed in his report why Pickens was not disqualified, saying: “The rule of two unsportsmanlike conduct fouls for disqualification really applies to taunting-type acts directed towards an opponent.
“The first of those fouls was of that nature – his first in the first-half was a taunt for throwing the ball at the player.
“On the second, however, it was not directed at an opponent and so it’s not considered a taunt.
“It’s an unsportsmanlike conduct foul but not considered a taunt that would apply towards disqualification.”
Pickens could also receive a fine from the NFL for punting the ball into the stands after a touchdown.
The second round 2022 draft pick has developed an unwanted reputation, having been involved with a scuffle with Cleveland Browns cornerback Greg Newsome II last week.
Earlier this season, he was fined for writing an explicit message on his eye black and for pulling down an opponent down by the face mask.
Pickens is no stranger to being a bad boy against the Bengals after being ejected in 2022 for a late hit on Tyler Boyd.
