Vrabel Objects to DPI Non-Call in Patriots’ 28-24 Win Over Ravens
Officials told the coach the receiver had to “survive the ground.”
Overview
- Late in New England’s comeback, no flag was thrown when Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey contacted Patriots receiver Kayshon Boutte on an incompletion many viewed as defensive pass interference.
- Mike Vrabel said the only explanation he received referenced the catch rule, quoting officials as saying, “You have to survive the ground.”
- Yahoo Sports reported the crew appeared to address whether it was a catch rather than the question of pass interference when Vrabel sought clarification.
- NBC’s Mike Tirico, Cris Collinsworth, and rules analyst Terry McAulay all said the play should have been ruled defensive pass interference.
- Kayshon Boutte exited with a head injury sustained on the play as the Patriots scored five snaps later and closed out a 28-24 victory.