Overview
- Officials called a false start on Pittsburgh’s second-quarter fourth-and-1 push play against the Bengals, turning a conversion try into a field goal attempt.
- Tight end Darnell Washington lined up under center for the Steelers’ Tush Push-style snap when the right side of the line moved early.
- The call reflects preseason guidance from NFL officiating leadership, with Ramon George instructing crews to “officiate it tight” on bunch and push formations.
- NFL owners considered banning the play in May but fell two votes short of the 24 needed, with the Jets, Ravens, Patriots and Lions among those opposing a ban.
- Fans and players questioned consistency after the flag, pointing to the Eagles’ frequent success with the play and earlier allegations of uncalled early movement.