Pittsburgh Steelers LB accused of 'dirty' play

PITTSBURGH – The Pittsburgh Steelers emerged victorious in Week 10 in a hard-fought battle with the Washington Commanders. Afterwards, the NFL seemed to respect both teams as contenders this season, but not everyone was kind on the field.

During the match, Commanders tight end John Bates and Steelers linebacker Patrick Queen got into a heated exchange that resulted in Bates removing his helmet after the game. Both teams were asked to make up penalties, but afterward Bates made sure to express his dislike for Queen.

“I would say nothing like this has ever happened to me,” Bates said. “Like I said, I played until the final whistle. It's just the way I play. If you watch the movie again, I think he was probably the one who tried to do something dirty to me. Things happen. That's what it is.”

Queen was a blitz player for the Steelers against Washington, recording seven tackles, including two tackles for a loss. He played a key role in Pittsburgh's one-point victory over the Commanders, moving them to 7-2 on the season.

Both teams will see if their play has caught the attention of the NFL, justifying the “dirty” label. The NFL issues fines the following week, meaning everyone will know if Queen or Bates went a little too far when they announce them for Week 10.

Meanwhile, Queen and the Steelers turn their attention to the Baltimore Ravens for another brutal showdown. AFC North football always gets a little livelier, and with Queen hosting its former team for the first time, it's almost certain there will be some exchange of words during the game.

It's hard to imagine anyone in Pittsburgh's locker room would call Queen dirty, but they probably love the sharpness with which he played in Week 10.

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