Setting the record straight
For the second week in a row, the Patriots have benefitted from the rule that indicates what a catch is. What’s more important, however, is what is not a catch.
Last week, the entire city of Pittsburgh was up in arms about a play that ultimately resulted in an incomplete pass. According to the rules, Steelers fans had no right to complain, because the pass was clearly incomplete.
This week, it was Buffalo’s turn to accuse the Patriots of having paid the referees, due to the reversal of this touchdown call.
Kelvin Benjamin doesn't get credit for the TD catch. Had his foot and toe scrape but not given possession during that brief time. pic.twitter.com/7QyCvPOE1a
— Ian Valentino (@NFLDraftStudy) December 24, 2017
This was called a touchdown on the field, but overturned after an official review. It was ruled that Kelvin Benjamin did not have control when both of his feet were on the ground, and when he gained control he only had one foot down.
The other foot came down out of bounds, turning the touchdown into an incomplete pass. It was a shocking reversal, in my opinion.
In #BUFvsNE, when Kelvin Benjamin gains control, his left foot is off the ground. The receiver only has one foot down in bounds with control. Therefore, it is an incomplete pass. -AL
— NFL Football Operations (@NFLFootballOps) December 24, 2017
Now, I’ll go to my grave saying that Jesse James’ catch for the Steelers was incomplete. That’s an easy call, to be honest. But this one? I don’t know about this one.
In no way, shape, or form was this the result of favoritism towards the Patriots. I can’t stress that enough. The call was made and it is what it is. However, I don’t think there was enough evidence to overturn the call on the field.
I understand the thought process of the referees, but I just can’t see the space between Benjamin’s foot and the ground. I’m not sure you could slip a piece of paper between the two. But hey, what do I know. I’m not an NFL referee.