Controversial Ending: Lions' Final Play Nullified by Penalties

In a dramatic finish to the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Detroit Lions saw two potential game-winning touchdowns nullified by offensive pass interference penalties. With just 25 seconds left, Isaac TeSlaa was flagged for OPI on a play that would have allowed Amon-Ra St.

Brown to score from the 1-yard line. After that, St. Brown caught a pass near the goal line and attempted a lateral to quarterback Jared Goff, who dove in for a touchdown, only for officials to call OPI on St.

Brown for pushing off against Steelers cornerback Jalen Ramsey. Referee Carl Cheffers explained that the first penalty was for a pick that created an opportunity for St. Brown, while the second was due to St.

Brown gaining an advantage through offensive pass interference. The Lions lost the game 29-24, leaving their playoff hopes hanging by a thread. Coach Dan Campbell and quarterback Jared Goff both took responsibility for the loss, emphasizing that the team put themselves in a position where they needed a last-second score.

Goff noted that he felt the TeSlaa call was subjective but refrained from placing blame on the officials. The game marked the first back-to-back losses for Detroit in over three years, dropping their record to 8-7 with two games remaining in the season, needing wins and help to secure a playoff spot.

The penalties have sparked significant discussion about officiating impact on game outcomes, especially since the Lions became the only team in the last 30 years to have two OPI calls enforced in the final 30 seconds of regulation, according to ESPN.