NFL Rules Expert Gene Steratore Sets the Record Straight on Ravens-Steelers Controversial Call
It was a touchdown until it wasn't.
When Baltimore Ravens QB Lamar Jackson found wideout Isaiah Likely in the end zone late in the fourth quarter Sunday, it looked like they were going to take the lead. Even though Pittsburgh Steelers defender Joey Porter Jr. knocked the ball free, Likely appeared to have possession.
But when officials reviewed the score, they overturned the call. It was the most controversial decision of the NFL weekend.
Yet, CBS rules analyst Gene Steratore says the refs got it right.
Isaiah Likely Didn't Maintain Control
There are three requirements for a catch in the NFL: the receiver must have control, the receiver must have his foot or a body part in bounds and the receiver must maintain control during a "football move."
Steratore says Likely had the first two, but failed to meet the third requirement, much to the Ravens' chagrin.
"The third element was not met," he posted on X. "The ball came loose prior to the receiver completing the third element."
To have a completed pass, the receiver must:
— Gene Steratore (@GeneSteratore) December 7, 2025
1.) Secure control of the ball ✅
2.) Have both feet or a body part (other than hands) in-bounds ✅
3.) Perform a football move (take a third step, tuck the ball away, turn upfield, avoid/ward off an opponent) or to maintain control… pic.twitter.com/H6qxuVybd6
What's the Reaction?
Even though the officials may have technically made the right call, many fans thought they were being too precise. The overturn cost the Ravens the game against their rival and bumped them down to a 6-7 record overall.
"I clearly don't know what a catch is in the NFL," posted popular Ravens podcaster Sarah Ellison.
"Isaiah Likely touchdown overturn new leader in the clubhouse for most inexplicable call of the year," added NBC NFL writer Patrick Daugherty.
I'm curious what football move you should be making in the end zone.
— Robert Mays (@robertmays) December 7, 2025
A pivotal division matchup, Ravens-Steelers was always going to be one of the most talked about games from the weekend's slate. But now, the discussion is about the refs, not the players. If the Ravens fall short and miss the playoffs, Likely's reversed touchdown will be cited as a tipping point.
As of Sunday night, the Ravens are currently the No. 10 seed in the AFC. That would keep them out of the postseason.