After a ridiculous roughing call regarding critical Kirk Cousins pass, Giants rescue NFL officials

Officials were let off the hook in this instance.

For a wild-card win, the New York Giants overcame a late Minnesota Vikings drive on Sunday. The Vikings received a huge assist on the way.

There are 2:33 left in the fourth quarter, and the Giants lead 31-24. Kirk Cousins Shotgun snap taken on second-and-4 at the Minnesota 18 yard line. Giants pass rusher Dexter Lawrence Cousins was hit immediately and the Vikings quarterback still had possession of the ball.

Cousins got rid off the ball, before Lawrence dragged Lawrence to the turf. A yellow flag was placed on the field.

Officials called Lawrence because he was roughing the passer. Instead of facing third and 4, the Vikings faced firstand-10 at the Minnesota 18 with a need for a touchdown. Giants head coach Brian Daboll was livid — and rightfully so.

Cousins had the ball in Lawrence’s hands, but Lawrence had Cousins under his control. He didn’t push Cousins to the ground or land on him with his body weight. He didn’t hit him high. He didn’t hit him low. As he made contact, it appears that Lawrence struck Cousins with a direct blow.

This incidental and brief contact could have a significant impact on a playoff game. It didn’t, fortunately for the NFL. The Vikings gained an additional 15 yards after the penalty and then turned the ball over on downs, on a fourth-and-8 completion which came up short of their sticks.

To advance to the divisional round matchup against The Giants, the Giants won 31-24 Philadelphia Eagles. The NFL doesn’t need to answer any controversy about officiating having an impact on the outcome of a playoff.