Steelers' Mike Tomlin Breaks Silence On Controversial Play That Decided Win Over Ravens

The Pittsburgh Steelers walked out of M&T Bank Stadium with a hard-fought 27-22 win over the Baltimore Ravens, a victory that not only bolsters their playoff hopes but also sparked conversation over a controversial play late in the game. With the season winding down, every win matters, and the Steelers showed resilience in a hostile environment. The defense held strong when it counted, and the offense managed to stay composed in crucial moments, keeping Pittsburgh in control down the stretch.

The controversial play involved Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely, who appeared to score a touchdown late in the game. Initially ruled a touchdown by the referees, the call was quickly reviewed and overturned after officials determined that Likely failed to maintain possession through the end zone. The reversal preserved the Steelers’ lead and ultimately helped secure the win, but it left fans and analysts debating what could have been a game-changing moment for Baltimore.

After the game, Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin addressed the play when speaking to the media. Tomlin acknowledged the intensity of the moment and the uncertainty surrounding the call, but praised the officials for making the correct ruling upon review. He emphasized that while such moments are dramatic, the team’s focus must remain on executing consistently and taking care of their own performance on the field. 

"I did not," Tomlin said in response to a Steelers reporter asking him if he thought Likely scored a touchdown on that play.  "I do know sometimes, you know, in an effort to get it right, they will signal a touchdown and give it the benefit of the review, but no I did not think it was a touchdown."

For Pittsburgh, the win and the ability to withstand late-game chaos provide crucial momentum as the collective continues its push toward the postseason. The victory not only adds to the Steelers’ confidence, but also reinforces their ability to perform under pressure in critical moments. 

Ravens fans quickly took to social media, expressing frustration and claiming that their team had been robbed by the officials. While the emotions are understandable, the reality is that both sides often benefit from certain calls over the course of a game, and the officiating is rarely perfect.

Tomlin made his perspective clear after the game, showing that he never believed the play was a touchdown. His calm and measured response contrasted with the loud debate among fans.

Despite the controversy, the Steelers’ focus remains on controlling what they can on the field rather than getting caught up in external noise. The team’s ability to handle such situations and maintain composure is a testament to their discipline and preparation, traits that are critical as the playoffs approach. However, many Steelers fans will need to see a lot more of that before they build trust back in Tomlin.

Steelers Get Critical Update From NFL Rules Expert

NFL rules expert Gene Steratore also weighed in on social media regarding the play, offering insight that carries significant credibility given his experience as a former official. 

Steratore explained that while the play appeared close, the reversal was consistent with the league’s rules regarding possession and control in the end zone. His analysis adds an authoritative perspective to the discussion and underscores that the officials’ decision, while controversial to some, was based on a clear interpretation of the rules. 

For the Steelers, this moment is less about debate and more about seizing the opportunity to build momentum and keep their postseason hopes alive. 

Did the refs get the call right on the Likely non-touchdown? Let us know in the comments below! Please feel free to share your Steelers takes with me on X @anthonyghalkias and follow me. I will respond!

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