The Ravens-Steelers rivalry rarely disappoints when it comes to drama, and Sunday’s matchup added another chapter-this time with a heavy dose of officiating controversy that left Baltimore fans, and even some players, scratching their heads.
Let’s start with a strange play involving Aaron Rodgers. Late in the game, Rodgers threw a pass that was tipped and appeared to be intercepted by Pittsburgh’s Teddye Buchanan.
Initially ruled a pick, the call was overturned after officials determined Rodgers had regained possession and was down by contact. It's the kind of bang-bang play that leaves plenty of room for interpretation, but the reversal worked in Pittsburgh’s favor-and it wouldn’t be the last time the officiating crew made its presence felt.
Another critical moment came on special teams. Ravens defensive tackle Travis Jones was flagged on a Steelers field goal attempt, giving Pittsburgh a fresh set of downs.
They didn’t waste the second chance, punching in a touchdown that shifted the momentum. It was a costly penalty in a game where every inch mattered.
But the moment that really lit up social media-and the Ravens sideline-came in the end zone. Lamar Jackson fired a strike to tight end Isaiah Likely, who appeared to secure the ball, take two steps, and then lose it as he was hit.
The officials ruled the pass incomplete. No touchdown.
No points. Just frustration.
To the naked eye-and to many watching at home-it looked like a catch. Likely had control, made a football move, and was in the end zone.
That’s usually enough. But the ruling stood, and the Ravens walked away empty-handed.
Veteran wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins didn’t hold back. In a now-deleted post on X (formerly Twitter), the future Hall of Famer voiced what many were thinking:
**"13 years in the league, how many steps do you need in the end zone for a TD?" **
It was a raw, honest reaction from a player who's seen more than his share of controversial calls.
The Ravens, now sitting at 6-7, are feeling the weight of this one. In a crowded AFC playoff picture, every game is a must-win, and this loss stings-not just because it came against a division rival, but because it felt like it slipped away in part due to decisions outside their control.
Looking ahead, the road doesn’t get any easier. Baltimore heads to Cincinnati next to face a Bengals squad that's also fighting for postseason life. After that, it’s a gauntlet: New England, Green Bay, and a rematch with these same Steelers to close out the regular season.
For a team with playoff aspirations, the margin for error is razor-thin. And if Sunday’s game proved anything, it’s that the Ravens will have to overcome more than just the opposing team to get where they want to go.