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Pats' Mike Vrabel was given no explanation for egregious missed call
New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel. James Lang-Imagn Images

Patriots' Mike Vrabel was given no explanation for egregious missed call

A shocking moment from the Patriots' 28-24 win over the Ravens on Sunday came from poor officiating.

Late in the game, Patriots quarterback Drake Maye launched a deep ball to wide receiver Kayshon Boutte. While the ball was in midair, Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey draped both arms around Boutte's torso and tackled him to the ground. As a result of Humphrey's contact, Boutte bobbled the ball, and it fell incomplete.

Although Humphrey clearly committed pass interference, no flag was thrown. During the broadcast, NBC rules analyst Terry McAulay seemed perplexed by the no-call, stating it was "obvious pass interference."

What did officiating crew tell Patriots' Mike Vrabel about call?

Following the game, Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel was asked about the officiating crew's decision not to throw a flag on Humphrey. 

Per Vrabel, officials told him that "you have to survive the ground," alluding to the NFL's catch rule, but gave no explanation regarding the pass interference aspect of the play. 

The Patriots were able to overcome the poor officiating, eventually scoring a game-winning touchdown with running back Rhamondre Stevenson.

The Patriots must use the momentum from this victory to finish the season on a high note. If Vrabel and company win their remaining games against the Jets (3-12) and Dolphins (6-9), the Patriots will take the AFC East for the first time since 2019.

Pierce Downey

Pierce Downey is a Texas-based Patriots fan who has previously written for Stadium Rant and Around The Block Network in the past. Downey also appears on numerous podcasts and talk shows to discuss football. You can follow him on Twitter @patsdowney.

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