The aftermath of the Steelers-Packers game has left Green Bay in discontent, particularly directed at the NFL officials who opted not to overturn a potentially game-changing incomplete forward pass by Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett. The controversy deepened as Packers cornerback Keisean Nixon suggested that Steelers coach Mike Tomlin may have influenced the referees’ decision during the critical call.
Appearing on the USA Today Network’s “Clubhouse Live” on Monday, Nixon claimed, “I just remember the Steelers head coach saying something to the refs. Whatever he said, it really influenced the refs. And they went with that call.”
While Nixon didn’t elaborate on the specifics of Tomlin’s alleged influence, he seems to base his conclusion on an on-field interaction captured during the CBS broadcast of the game. Tomlin can be seen communicating with one of the officials at the end of a replay.
The potential turnover would have given the Packers possession deep in Steelers territory with three and a half minutes remaining in the half. Despite the controversy, the Steelers ultimately secured a 23-19 victory.
Despite the accusations, skepticism arises as the whistle to blow the play dead occurred before Tomlin engaged with the side judge. The logistics of Tomlin exerting influence on replay officials from the field are also questioned.
While Wisconsin voices frustration, the Packers’ head coach Matt LaFleur expressed disagreement with the initial call after the game. CBS NFL rules analyst Gene Steratore noted that, upon multiple reviews, the ball appeared to be “a foot or two behind” the plane from which Pickett released it. Fox’s NFL rules analyst Dean Blandino even suggested a reversal, deeming it a backward pass, granting the Packers a first-and-goal opportunity at the Steelers’ 3-yard line.
Despite differing opinions on the call, the Steelers emerged victorious, leaving the debate over Tomlin’s alleged influence to linger in the aftermath.