The Pittsburgh Steelers fell to 6-4 after losing to the Cleveland Browns on November 19, 2023. It was a disappointing moment for Steelers fans as the offense struggled throughout the game. The Steelers lost 13-10 to the Browns, who were led by rookie fifth-round draft pick Dorian Thompson-Robinson.
Nick Cammett / Getty Images
Browns QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson throws the football against the Steelers.
This miserable game led to the historic midseason firing of Offensive Coordinator Matt Canada just a few days later. Canada had struggled for several seasons to elevate the offense and couldn't deliver, prompting the Steelers to make the difficult decision to fire him.
For the Steelers and their fans, it's never enjoyable to struggle against an AFC North rival, especially the Browns, who were missing a couple quarterbacks. Steelers fans felt embarrassed to lose to a backup, believing Thompson-Robinson's fifth-round draft status was a reflection of his skills.
Thompson-Robinson recently joined the Cleveland Browns Daily show and highlighted that beating Pittsburgh was one of his top moments of his rookie year.
"That week overall was my birthday week. Getting the call on my birthday that I was gonna be up, being able to go through that week of practice with the guys behind me, and everyone knowing I was going to be up that week... That was one of my more enjoyable moments of my rookie year, for sure."
It was an exciting week for Thompson-Robinson, as it was also his birthday week as he mentioned. He shared how the Browns team rallied behind him, and hearing the crowd chant his initials made the moment even more special.
"The whirlwind of emotions. Again, super special moment for me being my first win," said Thompson-Robinson. "All the work I put in to get there as well as where I'm getting to now."
The game was not particularly productive for either team, marked by intense defensive battles. When the Steelers are in close games, many expect them to find a way to win, even if it's ugly. However, that wasn't the case this time.
Dawgs By Nature
Thompson-Robinson completed 24 of 43 passes for 165 yards and one interception, while also rushing three times for 20 yards. Although his performance wasn't spectacular, it was enough to secure a victory for the Browns.
Steelers' Offense Was Awful In 2023
For the Steelers, it was a frustrating game for fans. Former quarterback Kenny Pickett threw 28 times, completing 15 passes for 106 yards with no touchdowns. George Pickens led the receiving corps with just four catches for 38 yards. The standout player for the Steelers was running back Jaylen Warren, who carried the ball nine times for 129 yards and one touchdown. Conversely, Najee Harris struggled, managing only 35 yards on 12 carries, averaging a meager 2.9 yards per carry.
The offensive struggles were so pronounced that it led to the firing of Canada. Following his dismissal, the Steelers' offense showed some improvement but remained a work in progress. This offseason, Pittsburgh hired Arthur Smith as the new offensive coordinator, hoping he can address the issues that plagued them in previous seasons.
Brett Davis / USA TODAY Sports
Former Atlanta Falcons Head Coach Arthur Smith stands on the sideline during a professional football game.
Losing to Thompson-Robinson and scoring just 10 points was embarrassing for Pittsburgh, despite the Browns' strong defense in 2023. The Steelers should have won but played poorly. That loss marked a significant turning point, closing the chapter on Canada's tenure. For Thompson-Robinson, that victory remains a cherished moment.
#SteelerNation
