DALLAS (105.3 The Fan) - Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy criticized a crucial call that went against the Cowboys in the final minute of their 20-17 season-opening loss to the Rams on Sunday night.
Cowboys receiver Michael Gallup made a 47-yard catch deep into Rams territory with 31 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter, but the official ruled that Gallup used his arm to push off Rams corner Jalen Ramsey, which gave him the space needed to make the play.
Replays appeared to show normal jostling for the ball on the play.
"I really didn't see a replay of it. Just watching it live it looked like two guys hand-fighting. I thought it was well executed. I was surprised there was a call there. We're very, obviously, disappointed in the call, particular at that point in the game. I thought they let both teams play tonight. You just don't usually see that, particularly in a critical point in the game," McCarthy said.
The head official from the game, Tony Corrente, stood behind the call in a session with the media following the game.
“I can tell you it was clear and obvious on the field, of a hand into the opposing player. A full arm extension that created separation. In all situations that would be called. We’re not going to allow that at any time of the game," Corrente said, via Jon Machota of The Athletic. “There were two officials from two different angles that had a very good look at it, and they didn’t hesitate whatsoever, it was that clear and obvious.”