Controversial Penalty in Cowboys-Lions Game Sparks Widespread Debate

NFL accused of 'gaslighting' as disputed call has significant playoff implications.

A controversial penalty in the Dallas Cowboys' 20-19 victory over the Detroit Lions in Week 17 has sparked widespread debate, with an anonymous AFC general manager calling it an 'inexcusable mistake'.
The penalty occurred when the Lions attempted a two-point conversion for the win, which was initially successful but was later ruled out as officials claimed that tackle Taylor Decker, who caught the pass in the end zone, never reported as eligible.
Video evidence and player testimonies contradict the officials' ruling, with Decker, Dan Skipper, and Penei Sewell all claiming they had reported their eligibility to referee Brad Allen.
The NFL sent a video to head coaches and general managers explaining league rules on reporting a change of position, which has been criticized as 'gaslighting' by an executive for an NFC team.
The result of the game had significant implications on the NFC playoff picture, with the Lions falling to 11-5 and the Cowboys moving to 11-5, allowing the San Francisco 49ers to gain sole control of the top spot in the conference.