Myles Garrett sends a stern message to TJ Watt amid ongoing DPOY tussle 

Myles Garrett dominated the Pittsburgh Steelers with five tackles, three sacks, and a forced fumble.

Myles Garrett sends a stern message to TJ Watt amid ongoing DPOY tussle 

TJ Watt and Myles Garrett (Via Sky Sports/Dawgs by Nature)

Despite leading the league in sacks, many felt TJ Watt was robbed of the Defensive Player of the Year award last season, which he also made it clear that he was not happy about. The honor went to Cleveland Browns’ star Myles Garrett and after their thrilling matchup in Week 12, Garrett demonstrated why he won the DPOY award. 

In the thrilling showdown, the Browns (2-8) pulled off an impressive upset against the Pittsburgh Steelers (8-2), resulting in a 24-19 win. Against all odds, the Browns dominated the field and showcased the determination to challenge the top-ranked AFC North team. 

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Garrett especially outperformed Watt by recording three sacks– a performance he demonstrated several times last season, leading to him winning the DPOY honor over the Pittsburgh star linebacker. Although the Browns’ defensive end does not wish to stretch his rivalry against Watt on a personal level, he did not like how Watt reacted upon finishing second.

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Myles Garrett demands respect from TJ Watt

The four-time Pro Bowler did not appreciate the Steelers edge rusher complaining about being defeated by him for the DPOY award, writing, “Nothing I’m not used to,” on his social media. And after outsourcing the Steelers in Week 12, Garrett made his feelings clear about his feud with Watt, demanding respect rather than an apology. 

Myles Garrett
Myles Garrett (Image via AP)

I’ve got a lot of respect for him, a lot of respect for all the guys over there. I’m No. 1. Edge defender one, edge one, to Defensive Player of the Year. I’m the guy. That runs through me. There’s no other person being defended as I am or schemed or planned against like I am. So just goes to show, you can throw that out the window, I’m going to find a way.

Myles Garrett said in the post-game media interaction

Amid Cleveland’s losing season, Garrett performed his best against the Steelers with five tackles, three sacks, and a forced fumble. His total sack count has risen to 10, placing him second in the league. Meanwhile, the six-time Pro Bowler logged four tackles and zero sacks in the game on Thursday.

This was the Steelers’ third loss of the season and while Watt addressed the defeat in the post-game press conference, acknowledging his team’s shortcomings in closing out the games; he did not comment on his rivalry with Garrett over the DPOY honor.

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