Controversy has surrounded NFL officiating throughout the 2024 season, and the latest Adam Thielen touchdown (or not) will only add flames to the fire. Carolina drove deep into the redzone early in the Panthers Week 13 matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Quarterback Bryce Young targeted the veteran, who seemingly did a remarkable job of bringing in the high pass, keeping himself in bounds, and maintaining possession throughout the catch. Initially ruled incomplete, fans across the league believed the call would be overturned upon further review.
That didn’t happen, as the call stood upon review. It’s important to note that the call was not CONFIRMED, which simply means the officials did not believe there was enough evidence to overturn the call on the field.
Social Media Reacts To Controversial Adam Thielen Incomplete Touchdown
Based on the replay, Adam Thielen hauled in the ball and got his knee and elbow done to secure the touchdown. However, players must also control the ball throughout the catch process, which the original official didn’t feel he did. The uprights blocked certain endzone angles which could have confirmed whether or not Thielen bobbled the ball when he was out of bounds.
Surviving the catch has been a controversial topic for years and far predates the Adam Thielen touchdown. As mentioned by FantasyLife’s Ian Hartitz, this is similar to the famous Dez Bryant non-catch from the 2014-2015 playoffs. While the wording of the rule has changed several times over the past decade, Thielen’s play goes to show that there is still work to be done here.
This is more than just a few accounts upset about their favorite getting the short end of the stick. Based on replies to popular accounts, just about everyone believes Adam Thielen should have had a touchdown on this play.
