Key pass interference decision in Rams-Broncos looked like the right call

Key Points:

• Sunday night’s Rams-Broncos game featured a controversial potential pass interference call near the L.A. five-yard line, reminiscent of the 2018 NFC Championship non-call between the Rams and Saints in the same field area.
• The disputed play involved Rams defensive back Josh Wallace shoving Broncos receiver Pat Bryant just before the ball arrived, which some interpret as pass interference under NFL rules prohibiting contact that restricts an opponent’s opportunity to catch the ball.
• Opinions on whether interference occurred vary, highlighting the subjective nature of such calls and the difficulty officials face making real-time judgments without the benefit of slow-motion replay.
• The NFL briefly allowed pass interference calls to be reviewed by replay after the 2018 incident, but the policy was poorly executed and lasted only one year, leaving such calls to officials’ discretion.
• Experts argue that commentators and former officials often focus too much on their personal interpretation rather than explaining the standard and discretion officials must apply during live play.