Mike McCarthy questions interference call that killed Dallas Cowboys’ last gasp
For all intents and purposes, the questionable fourth-down call by coach Mike McCarthy was the turning point in a 20-17 season-opening loss to the Los Angeles Rams.
Coming up short rather than taking a potential game-tying field goal from the 11 cannot be overlooked or underplayed.
But McCarthy believes it was a questionable call by the officials that really cost the Cowboys an opportunity for the comeback win.
With 21 seconds remaining in the game, a 47-yard completion from quarterback Dak Prescott to receiver Michael Gallup appeared to set the Cowboys up at the Rams’ 19-yard line for at least a game-tying field goal.
But Gallup was flagged for offensive pass interference for allegedly pushing off on cornerback Jalen Ramsey.
McCarthy was not happy with the call or the timing.
“Just watching it live, it looked like two guys hand fighting,” McCarthy said. “I thought it was well-executed. I was surprised there was a call there, either way.”
“Obviously disappointed in the call, particularly at that point in the game. I thought they let both teams play, and you just don’t usually see that — particularly at a critical point in the game.”
Asked about the flag after the game, NFL official Tony Corrente, the head referee, said was unequivocal in upholding the penalty.
He also disagreed with McCarthy on throwing such flags at key points in the game.
“I can tell you it was clear and obvious on the field, a hand into the opposing player. A full arm extension that created separation,” Corrente said. “In all situations that would be called. We’re not going to allow that at any time of the game.”
Quarterback Dak Prescott didn’t see what was happening downfield but doesn’t regret giving Gallup an opportunity to make a big play.
“It’s one-on-one. Michael Gallup is a guy that I trust every time, especially in a deep-ball situation,” Prescott said. “I just put it out there and tried to let him go run under it.”
That’s what Gallup did. Suffice it to say, he didn’t like the call either.
“Honestly when you’re playing away, you’ve got to make sure you know you’re playing against the refs and the other team,” Gallup said. “It is what it is. They’re going to call it like they want to call it.”
