NFL expands replay to cover offensive and defensive pass interference

The issue came to the forefront after a controversial no-call in NFC Championship Game

3/26/2019, 11:51 PM
Jan 20, 2019; New Orleans, LA, USA; Los Angeles Rams defensive back Nickell Robey-Coleman (23) breaks up a pass intended or New Orleans Saints wide receiver Tommylee Lewis (11) during the fourth quarter of the NFC Championship game at Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports / Chuck Cook
Jan 20, 2019; New Orleans, LA, USA; Los Angeles Rams defensive back Nickell Robey-Coleman (23) breaks up a pass intended or New Orleans Saints wide receiver Tommylee Lewis (11) during the fourth quarter of the NFC Championship game at Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports / Chuck Cook

The Saints finally get their vindication. 

The NFL approved a new rule on Tuesday to expand replay review to cover offensive and defensive pass interference, which will apply to both calls and non-calls. 

The reviews will be initiated by a coaches' challenge with the exception of the last two minutes of the half or game, in which a replay official will initiate the process. 

Owners overwhelmingly voted in favor of the change with a 31-1 vote, with the one vote against it being the Cincinnati Bengals. 

NFL competition committee chairman Rich McKay said the eight-man committee was originally split 4-4 on the measure until last night. 

"People compromised on long-held views because people wanted to get it right," NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said in a press conference after the vote. 

The rule change will be re-evaluated after one year. 

The issue came into play after the NFC Championship Game when Rams cornerback Nickell Robey-Coleman blatantly interfered with now-former Saints receiver Tommylee Lewis in the final two minutes of the game. 

 

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