NFL Explains Isaiah Likely Overturned Touchdown Catch And More Calls in Ravens’ Loss to Steelers

According to the NFL Rule Book, an “act common to the game” can be extending the ball forward, taking an additional step, tucking the ball away and turning upfield, or avoiding or warding off an opponent, or he maintains control of the ball long enough to do so.

Did Likely extend the ball forward after the first two steps were checked off? Did he avoid or ward off an opponent?

“They made a call, and we have to live with what the referees say at the end of the day,” Likely said. “I guess I have to just get my third foot down.”

Jackson and other Ravens players thought it was a touchdown.

“I believe so. I thought it was,” Jackson said. “In the end zone, taking steps. [Their guy] just kept punching at the ball. That’s all I can see.”

“I think common sense will tell you that’s a catch,” left tackle Ronnie Stanley said. “A lot of things get overthought, but it is what it is.”

The Ravens still had a second-and-10 after the incomplete pass, but they were hit with a 2-yard loss on third-and-2, and then Jackson’s fourth-down pass intended for Mark Andrews or DeAndre Hopkins was broken up.

The Likely ruling was the second of the fourth quarter that went against the Ravens. Earlier, Aaron Rodgers had a pass batted at the line of scrimmage. He and Teddye Buchanan both caught the rebound, and the Ravens linebacker came away with it.

However, after replay, it was ruled that Rodgers got his knees down before losing possession. Instead of the Ravens taking over possession in scoring position at the 32-yard line, Rodgers was credited with completing a pass to himself.