Lamar Jackson’s blunt one-word response after Ravens’ upsetting playoff exit highlights officiating questions and a defining offseason ahead

The Baltimore Ravens saw their season end in the most devastating way possible, with one final kick deciding their elimination. Rookie Tyler Loop’s missed 44-yard field goal as time expired against the Pittsburgh Steelers became the moment fans will replay all offseason. Yet the miss itself was not the only reason that caused scrutiny and criticism about the crucial moment.

Within minutes, quarterback Lamar Jackson made it clear that he believed something critical had been overlooked. His frustration stemmed from the Ravens being denied a fair chance to extend the game. According to Jason McCourty and Jackson, officials did not intervene in Ben Skowronek’s faulty move during that moment that would normally be counted as a foul.

A missed call adds fuel, but the Ravens still face bigger questions

The controversy centers on the Steelers’ attempt to block the final kick. While Ben Skowronek’s leap over the line was expected, what raised eyebrows was how he gained height. Video showed Skowronek placing a hand on Cam Heyward’s back, then making contact with Ravens long snapper Nick Moore while coming down.


Under NFL rules, using another player for leverage is a 15-yard personal foul. Former Super Bowl champion Jason McCourty did not hesitate to say a flag should have been thrown. Jackson appeared to echo that sentiment with a short and blunt response, commenting “smfh” (shaking my ******* head).

Had officials called the penalty, the Ravens would have received an untimed down and a much shorter kick. Instead, the season ended right there in the most unsatisfying and undeserved way. While the frustration is understandable, the Ravens had chances long before that final snap. Jackson delivered a strong performance in a game that demanded it.

He threw three touchdown passes and kept the offense alive with two explosive fourth-quarter throws of 50 and 64 yards to Zay Flowers. Those plays briefly shifted momentum and gave Baltimore hope. Still, this was a winner-take-all game, and the Steelers found a way to survive. Mike Tomlin’s team advanced, while John Harbaugh’s did not, leaving the Ravens in a state of despair and disappointment.

Also read: Lamar Jackson shrugs off criticism as Ravens’ playoff hopes hang in balance