NFL Clarifies Isaiah Likely’s Overturned Touchdown and Key Calls in Ravens-Steelers Loss
The NFL recently clarified a controversial decision regarding Isaiah Likely’s overturned touchdown during the Ravens-Steelers game. This clarification sparks further discussion about key calls affecting the game.
Understanding the Touchdown Controversy
Isaiah Likely’s potential touchdown was ruled incomplete, igniting debates among players and fans. According to the NFL Rule Book, an “act common to the game” can include extending the ball forward and maintaining control while evading opponents. The question remains: Did Likely fulfill these conditions?
Likely expressed disappointment over the ruling, stating, “I guess I have to just get my third foot down.” Meanwhile, Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson believed it should have been a touchdown: “In the end zone, [the opponent] just kept punching at the ball.”
Player Reactions to the Call
Other Ravens players shared their frustrations regarding the decision. Left tackle Ronnie Stanley argued, “A lot of things get overthought, but it is what it is.”
Impact on the Game
The Ravens faced a challenging sequence of events following the overturned touchdown. After Likely’s incomplete pass, the team was confronted with a second-and-10 scenario. Unfortunately, they lost two yards on a third-and-2 attempt, leading to a fourth-down pass that fell incomplete.
Second Controversial Call
This incident was not the only contentious decision affecting the Ravens. Earlier in the quarter, Aaron Rodgers had a pass batted at the line of scrimmage, which resulted in him catching the rebound. However, replay showed that Rodgers’ knee was down before losing possession, preventing the Ravens from capitalizing on the turnover at the 32-yard line.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the combination of these pivotal calls left the Ravens grappling with the game’s outcome. The NFL’s clarification of Isaiah Likely’s overturned touchdown underscores the ongoing complexities surrounding officiating decisions in professional football.
