In a hauntingly familiar scene, the infamous "Calvin Johnson" rule made its unwelcome return, and this time, tight end Trey McBride fell victim to its controversial enforcement.

For those in need of a reminder, it was back in 2010 when the Detroit Lions' iconic wide receiver, Calvin Johnson, saw his potential game-winning touchdown erased after making a remarkable catch, getting both feet in bounds, but losing control of the ball as he descended to the ground. The ruling stated that he did not maintain possession throughout the entire process, resulting in an incomplete pass. Consequently, the Lions went on to lose the season opener against the Chicago Bears.

Now, fast forward to the year 2023 and Sunday's game between the Arizona Cardinals and the Pittsburgh Steelers, where history seemed to repeat itself.

With Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray commanding the field, he spotted Trey McBride darting up the seam and delivered a precisely placed pass to the tight end. McBride displayed tremendous athleticism as he secured the catch, firmly planting both feet in bounds, but unfortunately, the ball jarred loose upon his elbow hitting the turf.

In an attempt to plead his case, McBride engaged in a negotiation with the officials, but his efforts proved futile. The touchdown was denied.

Unfazed by the setback, Murray wasted no time. On a crucial third-and-goal play, he once again entrusted the ball to McBride, who, aware of the rule's historic impact, secured the catch just centimeters away from the end zone. Determined not to let history repeat itself, McBride pivoted swiftly, achieving what was now unquestionably a touchdown.

As the teams headed to halftime, the Cardinals held a meritorious 10-3 lead over the Steelers. Trey McBride had already amassed an impressive performance, recording six catches for 67 yards and the solitary touchdown of the game.

With the eerie echoes of past controversies, the lingering specter of the "Calvin Johnson" rule continues to haunt players and fans alike. While the NFL has made strides in clarifying and refining catch rulings in recent years, instances like McBride's near-miss serve as reminders that the interpretation of catch rules remains subjective and can still shape the outcome of crucial plays.

As players strive to navigate the fine line between exceptional displays of skill and maintaining control to the ground, debates surrounding catch rulings persist, with aspirations of finding a fair and unequivocal resolution.