THE STORY
On September 12, 2010, during the NFL season opener at Soldier Field, Detroit Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson caught a 25-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Shaun Hill with 31 seconds remaining, seemingly giving the Lions a 20–19 lead over the Chicago Bears. However, referee Gene Steratore ruled the catch incomplete, stating that Johnson did not maintain possession throughout the entire process of the catch. The Lions lost the game 19–14. (cbsnews.com)
TEAMS / PEOPLE:
Detroit Lions, Chicago Bears
WHY IT MATTERS
This controversial ruling led to widespread discussion and was instrumental in the NFL's subsequent clarification and modification of the 'process of the catch' rule, often referred to as the 'Calvin Johnson Rule.' (nfl.com)