T.J. Hockenson Slams Overturned Touchdown Decision as “Ridiculous”

T.J. Hockenson, the tight end for the Minnesota Vikings, expressed his frustration over an overturned touchdown decision during a recent game. This incident occurred with just 2:58 left on the clock in a matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles, concluding in a narrow 28-22 loss for the Vikings.

T.J. Hockenson’s Discontent with Touchdown Ruling

After the game, Hockenson did not hold back his feelings regarding the ruling. He reacted strongly when referee Bill Vinovich announced the decision, insisting he had full control of the ball throughout the catch. In his words, Hockenson stated, “There was nothing to overturn it.” He questioned the catch rule, saying, “I don’t understand how New York can call in and just be like, ‘Yeah, that’s not a catch,’ when there was no evidence that it wasn’t.”

Details of the Controversial Play

The critical play happened on a third-and-2 situation from the Eagles’ 15-yard line. Hockenson asserted that he had possession as he went to the ground. Following the overturned call, the Vikings had to burn an additional 1:01 off the game clock before opting for a Will Reichard field goal with just 1:57 remaining in the game.

Official Response to the Overturn

• Mark Butterworth, the vice president of instant replay, provided insight into the decision.
• He stated there was “clear and obvious” video evidence indicating the ball made contact with the ground while Hockenson was falling.
• Butterworth clarified that Hockenson needed to maintain control of the ball through the entirety of the catch process.
• As per the ruling, the play was confirmed as an incomplete pass due to loss of control.

Game Statistics and Team Performance

Despite the controversy surrounding the play, Hockenson acknowledged the team’s overall performance. The Vikings struggled in the red zone, managing only one successful attempt out of six. Quarterback Carson Wentz also faced challenges, throwing two interceptions, one of which was returned 42 yards for a touchdown by Jalyx Hunt.

“It is what it is,” Hockenson reflected on the overturned touchdown. “You can’t go one for six in the red zone and win a ball game with two turnovers. We had the opportunity at the end, obviously. But yeah, tough one.”