Steelers Fans Infuriated With Josh Allen And Refs For Fake Sliding On 52-Yard Touchdown Run

The Pittsburgh Steelers' playoff run was cut short with a loss to the Buffalo Bills, but two key plays in the game left many fans infuriated. The game quickly slipped away from the Steelers, but it was the Mason Rudolph interception in the red zone that countered with Josh Allen's 52-yard touchdown run that stung the most.

During the second quarter of the game, with seven minutes left, Allen made a spectacular 52-yard touchdown run. While this play thrilled football fans, it left Steelers supporters heartbroken. Not only did it increase the Bills' lead to 21 points, but it also felt like a decisive blow delivered by Allen's legs.

Steelers Defense Faked Out By Josh Allen

What drew frustration from both Steelers and football fans in general was the perception that Allen seemed to be giving himself up for a slide, but then executed a head fake and kept running. This move led Steelers defender Damontae Kazee to slow down, thinking Allen was going to slide.

Former NFL quarterback Chase Daniel expressed his admiration for Allen's fake slide on social media. He commended the play as a brilliant move and affectionately referred to Allen as "Playoff Josh." 

Steelers star linebacker TJ Watt's brother, JJ Watt took to social media to share his thoughts about using the play to your advantage. 

JJ Watt raises a valid argument regarding exploiting a rule to gain an advantage. However, it remains unfair for defenders to be in a position where they must consider the possibility of a fake slide. 

While the league aims to protect quarterbacks, it appears that this effort may inadvertently complicate the game for opposing defenses. Following JJ Watt's advice, Kazee would have faced a severe penalty had he committed to the tackle. One that he couldn't afford because of his last hit that happened during the Indianapolis Colts game.

The argument centers around whether this constitutes a fake slide and if it should be allowed. There is no specific rule against the fake slide, making it a contentious and complex topic for debate. While it can be seen as a strategic advantage for the ball carrier, it also places defenders in a dilemma. They can't simply go for the tackle because they must be cautious about the possibility of a slide.

To highlight the complexity of the issue, consider a play in the same game involving Myles Jack, who was running up to tackle a scrambling Allen. When Allen started to slide, Jack initiated a tackle, but Allen started his slide a second after Jack had committed to the tackle, resulting in a flag that had a significant impact on the Steelers' defense.

This controversial touchdown run not only left Steeler Nation frustrated, but also ignited a broader debate about the use of the fake slide tactic. Steelers fans took to social media to express their opinions on the fake slide. 

Steelers star wide receiver George Pickens was also outraged by the officiating in the game citing the fact he didn't earn a pass interference call on a crucial play. 

While opinions on whether Allen's move was a fake slide or an incredible fake and touchdown run vary, one thing is certain: it added to the challenges the Steelers faced early in the game and made their comeback attempt all the more difficult. The controversy surrounding this play will likely linger in the minds of Steelers fans and football enthusiasts alike.

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