Report: NFL admits to blowing huge call in Panthers game vs. Saints

A key play in Sunday’s game between the New Orleans Saints and the Carolina Panthers has come under scrutiny thanks to the role of replay review. According to a report from NBC Sports, the NFL has privately admitted it blew a call on replay review.

The play in question occurred late in the fourth quarter of a game that was tied 17-17. Panthers quarterback Bryce Young found receiver Tetairoa McMillan for a 12-yard gain and a first down. It was initially ruled a catch on the field.

However, the Saints challenged the ruling on the field. And the replay process reversed the call on the field.

According to NBC Sports, “per a source with knowledge of the situation, the league privately admitted to the Panthers after the game that the ruling of a catch should not have been overturned.” The catch itself likely fell into a gray zone.

Based on the NFL’s reported admission there wasn’t “clear and obvious” evidence McMillan hadn’t completed the catch, but it was close enough for viewers to have either view — catch or incomplete pass. Even the TV broadcast crew calling the game seemed split on it.

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