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Cowboys Reverse Penalty Call, Costly Coaching Blunder?
9 Nov
Summary
- Cowboys initially declined penalties, then accepted one after seeing the Colts' kicker.
- Colts coach questioned officials about the rule allowing the change.
- Spencer Shrader successfully kicked a 59-yard field goal in the game.
During the Colts' recent 27-23 loss to the Cowboys, a controversial officiating decision occurred that left Indianapolis coach Shane Steichen questioning the referees. Initially, the Cowboys' head coach declined two penalties on a play, which would have set up the Colts for a potential 61-yard field goal attempt by Spencer Shrader.
However, upon seeing Shrader trot onto the field, the Cowboys' coach changed his mind and accepted a holding penalty. Steichen asked the officials if this reversal was permissible, receiving confirmation that opposing coaches could indeed change their decision. This allowed the Cowboys to decline the penalties again, moving the ball back.
Ultimately, the decision did not alter the game's outcome. Shrader later successfully kicked a career-long 59-yard field goal, tying the game at 20 points. This successful kick highlighted the Cowboys' initial indecision regarding the penalties.
