A controversial officiating call in the first half of the Sunday Night Football game left many fans livid, and one Hall of Famer calling for a rule change.
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts dropped back to pass early in the second quarter. His pass got deflected, but on the play, Miami Dolphins defensive tackle Christian Wilkins got flagged for roughing the passer.
It appeared that Wilkins let up at the last second in an effort to avoid contact. The officials saw it differently.
NBC Sports rules analyst Terry McAulay disagreed with the penalty.
“I say he hits him in one step,” McAulay said. “He actually pulls off with his hands, he doesn’t follow through and blow up the quarterback. This just isn’t enough for roughing the passer.”
McAulay wasn’t the only one who disagreed with the call. Hall of Fame quarterback Kurt Warner tweeted, “It’s time to make “roughing the passer” reviewable … to many “no ways” happening right now! (And it’s extending drives, leading to TDs & changing complexion of games) #WhosWithMe”
Former ESPN personality Trey Wingo, now with the Pro Football Network, was not as polite.
“Come on man … roughing the passer??? RIDICULOUS,” Wingo tweeted.
The NFL world overwhelmingly agreed officials missed the call.
[Awful Announcing; Photo Credit: NBC]
About Arthur Weinstein
Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.