The Pittsburgh Steelers faced an unexpected defeat in Week 17, falling to the Cleveland Browns with a score of 13-6. The Steelers entered the game at Huntington Bank Field knowing that a victory against the struggling Browns, with a record of 3-12, would secure them the AFC North title and a playoff berth. However, powered by rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders and a strong defensive performance, the Browns pulled off a stunning upset. This outcome now sets up a crucial matchup in the regular-season finale, where the Steelers will host the Baltimore Ravens in a win-and-in scenario, with the winner advancing to the playoffs.
Following the game, veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers did not hesitate to voice his displeasure regarding the officiating. In the final moments of the game, with the Steelers down by a touchdown and facing a 4th-and-goal situation, Rodgers attempted a pass to Marquez Valdes-Scantling in the end zone. The pass fell incomplete as Cleveland cornerback Denzel Ward tightly covered Valdes-Scantling. Many fans felt Ward”s contact warranted a pass interference penalty, but no flag was thrown, resulting in a turnover and sealing the Steelers” fate.
Rodgers commented on the controversial call, stating, “That was definitely interference,” as he expressed his frustration with the officiating. Valdes-Scantling echoed his sentiments, noting that he had successfully maneuvered past Ward before the crucial play. “Ball went up, and then he did a good job of playing through me. I thought I should have maybe got a call, but no call was made,” he reflected on the missed opportunity.
While Rodgers and Valdes-Scantling lamented the no-call, Browns star Myles Garrett suggested that the Steelers were more focused on him than on winning the game. Garrett, who is in pursuit of breaking the single-season sack record, needed just one more sack to surpass the marks set by Michael Strahan and T.J. Watt. Despite his efforts, he was unable to bring Rodgers down during the game.
Garrett remarked, “I feel like they were more worried about keeping me away from Aaron than getting the win, and I think that”s what came back to bite them.” He expressed pride in his team”s performance, emphasizing the importance of their win against a long-time rival. “I”m just proud of the guys for fighting and getting this one,” Garrett added.
With Cleveland”s season already concluded, Garrett”s pursuit of history continues while the Steelers” hopes for a division title have been dashed by this unexpected loss. They will have to focus on defeating the Ravens next Sunday in primetime, an event that will certainly attract attention from fans across the league.
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