"NFL is rigged" "Worst call I’ve ever seen": Fans rips referee for questionable OPI call on Marquez Valdes-Scantling in Steelers vs. Browns game

A controversial offensive pass interference call on Steelers wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling sparked backlash from fans on Sunday. During Pittsburgh’s third offensive drive in the first quarter, Aaron Rodgers targeted Scotty Miller on a wheel route out of the backfield. Valdes-Scantling ran a crossing route on the opposite side, intended to occupy the defender covering Miller.

The play resulted in a significant completion to Miller, moving Pittsburgh into Cleveland Browns territory and appearing to set up a manageable first down. However, officials flagged Valdes-Scantling for OPI, ruling that his route constituted illegal interference. The penalty wiped out the gain, pushed the Steelers back 10 yards and turned the situation into third-and-long.

Fans called out the bad officiating, which has been a recurring theme this season.

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"NFL is rigged," a fan wrote. "The worst call I’ve ever seen," another fan wrote. "And so it begins. Congrats to Baltimore," a fan said. "This is expected. They want a meaningful game next weekend," one fan commented. "Script writers were in their bags today," a fan tweeted. "Serious question why doesn’t the booth call it in and say it was wrong?" another fan said.

Cleveland safety Rayshawn Jenkins was penalized for taunting after the stop on the next drive. It drew a 15-yard penalty and an automatic first down for Pittsburgh. The call was widely called a “make-up” penalty, with observers noting that the taunting appeared minor and possibly limited to trash talk.

Marquez Valdes-Scantling set for bigger role as Steelers lose starters

With DK Metcalf and Calvin Austin III unavailable for Week 17 against the Cleveland Browns, Marquez Valdes-Scantling has a bigger role in the Steelers offense. Pittsburgh has been forced to lean deeper into its wide receiver depth against one of the NFL’s top defenses. Valdes-Scantling is among the primary beneficiaries.

He has logged 65 offensive snaps over the Steelers’ last two games. Valdes-Scantling's long-standing chemistry with Aaron Rodgers, developed during their time together in Green Bay, makes him a logical option for increased targets. Despite recording a touchdown in last week’s win over the Lions, his familiarity with Rodgers’ timing and tendencies keeps him firmly in the game plan.

With Adam Thielen expected to serve as the temporary No. 1 receiver, Marquez Valdes-Scantling will likely be a threat. His ability to stretch the field could be critical as Pittsburgh looks to clinch the AFC North and avoid a win-or-go-home scenario in Week 18.

Edited by Victor Ramon Galvez