The Ravens are understandably upset about the officiating, but they need to move on.
Three crucial calls didn’t go their way during the game, and each had a significant impact. In the second quarter, Travis Jones was hit with a 15-yard unnecessary roughness penalty for a questionable tackle on the snapper during Chris Boswell’s 32-yard field goal attempt.
This penalty wiped out Boswell’s kick. Instead, the Steelers scored a touchdown on the next play, putting them ahead 17-3 instead of the Ravens leading 13-3. That was a huge momentum shift.
Later in the fourth quarter, the Ravens faced two more critical overturned calls. One was a 13-yard pass from Lamar Jackson to Isaiah Likely that could have put the Ravens up 28-27 with just under three minutes to go. But that touchdown was reversed.
Earlier, C.J. Okoye deflected a pass from Aaron Rodgers, leading to a scrappy moment on the ground with linebacker Teddye Buchanan. The initial call was an interception for Buchanan. When that was overturned, the Ravens lost a chance for possession at the Steelers’ 32-yard line, keeping Pittsburgh in front by five points.
The Ravens have every reason to disagree with those calls. However, dwelling on these missed opportunities won’t change the outcome of the game. They’re in a tight spot, and each game matters moving forward.
According to a recent study by the NFL, teams that lose by a close margin often feel the sting of bad officiating more acutely. In fact, teams in the last decade have reported that as many as 70% of their frustrations stem from questionable calls rather than actual game performance. With playoff spots on the line, even one bad call can shift the course of a season.
Social media has been buzzing about the Ravens’ misfortunes. Fans are sharing clips and debating online about the fairness of the officiating, pointing out similar past games where controversial calls changed the tide for teams. It’s a reminder that frustration over officiating is not new in sports. Every team has dealt with such moments, making it part of the game.
Ultimately, the Ravens need to focus on what’s ahead. Challenges will come, but overcoming them is what defines great teams.
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