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OPI Flags Erase Lions’ Late TDs in 29-24 Steelers Win

Officials said the backward pass plus an offensive foul on the last snap meant no replay under NFL rules.

Overview

  • Detroit twice crossed the goal line in the final minute, but offensive pass interference on Isaac TeSlaa and then Amon-Ra St. Brown nullified both potential go-ahead touchdowns.
  • Referee Carl Cheffers explained the crew ruled the lateral a backward pass, yet an offensive foul with no time remaining cancels the score and ends the game without an additional play.
  • Analyst consensus coalesced around the final OPI on St. Brown as correct, while the earlier call on TeSlaa drew broader disagreement, including sharp criticism from Rex Ryan.
  • Jared Goff called the first flag a bad call while acknowledging officials’ difficult job, as Detroit’s playoff probability dropped to roughly 6% after the loss.
  • The finish capped a weekend of officiating scrutiny, with other high-profile misses or disputed calls highlighted during Patriots–Ravens and Panthers–Buccaneers broadcasts.