New York Giants defensive lineman Dexter Lawrence was issued a controversial roughing the passer penalty late against the Minnesota Vikings.
The New York Giants were perhaps the biggest surprise team of the 2022 NFL season. In their first year of a supposed rebuild, and they made it to the playoffs and pushed the Minnesota Vikings to the limit. Late in the fourth quarter, however, the referees almost prevented the Giants from picking up the victory.
On Minnesota’s final drive with New York up 31-24, defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence broke through the middle of the line of scrimmage to get to quarterback Kirk Cousins. As Cousins was being brought down by Lawrence, he threw the football away. Yet, the on-field officials penalized Lawrence for roughing the passer.
This had head coach Brian Daboll livid, as the Vikings were given a first down and 15 yards.
This caused quite an uproar on social media causing NFL Twitter to share their thoughts, including from some current and former players.
NFL Twitter reacts to controversial Giants roughing the passer penalty
Luckily for the Giants, this play did not cost them the game or help the Vikings tie the game up.
New York’s defense forced Minnesota to go for it on fourth-and-eight near midfield. But on that play, Cousins threw a three-yard pass to tight end T.J. Hockenson, who was brought down by New York safety Xavier McKinney. That allowed the Giants to regain possession and run out the clock to secure the victory.
Lawrence had himself a game, recording six total tackles, four quarterback hits, and one tackle for loss.
The Giants were led on offense by quarterback Daniel Jones, who completed 24-of-35 pass attempts for 301 yards and two touchdowns, while running for 78 yards on 17 carries.
As if there wasn’t any further proof, the Giants aren’t to be doubted. Even a controversial roughing the passer call was going to prevent them from winning their first playoff game since the 2011 season.