Steelers Secure Victory as Isaiah Likely’s Touchdown Overturned

On a dramatic game day in Baltimore, tight end Isaiah Likely’s apparent touchdown catch was controversially overturned, impacting the Ravens’ chances in their matchup against the Steelers. With less than three minutes remaining, Likely caught a pass from quarterback Lamar Jackson, appearing to secure a touchdown. However, following a replay review, officials ruled he had lost control of the ball as he attempted a third step.

Game Highlights and Key Plays

The Ravens, down by 27-22, regained possession at their own 26-yard line with two minutes left. Lamar Jackson kept the drive alive with a crucial fourth-down pass to Likely, followed by another completion to tight end Charlie Kolar. After a spike to stop the clock, a pass to Mark Andrews moved them closer to the end zone, but the drive ended in disappointment as Alex Highsmith sacked Jackson, sealing the game for the Steelers.

Controversial Calls Influence Outcome

Several decisions during the game drew ire from Ravens fans. A Steelers field goal was nullified due to a contentious unnecessary roughness penalty against defensive lineman Travis Jones. This set the stage for the Steelers to score a touchdown shortly thereafter. Additionally, an interception that could have changed the game was overturned after replay indicated Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers was down, following a deflected pass.

Player Performances

• Aaron Rodgers: 23-of-34, 284 yards, including a touchdown and a fumble recovery.
• DK Metcalf: Caught 7 passes for 148 yards, contributing significantly to the Steelers’ offense.
• Lamar Jackson: Completed 19-of-35 passes for 219 yards, also ran for 43 yards and a touchdown.

Both teams faced challenges as Jackson struggled with a costly first-half interception. The Ravens’ head coach, John Harbaugh, will likely address the numerous pivotal calls during his upcoming press conference.

Looking Ahead

With the defeat, the Ravens fell to a 7-6 record, allowing the Steelers to take the lead in the AFC North. Both teams are set to meet again in Week 18, but the stakes may differ depending on how the remainder of the season unfolds. Next week, the Steelers will host the Dolphins, while the Ravens will aim to break their two-game losing streak against the Cincinnati Bengals.