As if Sunday’s officiating in the Lions’ loss to the Rams wasn’t already frustrating enough for Detroit fans, a newly circulating video has only poured more fuel on the fire.
Footage has emerged from the moments immediately after officials upheld what was ruled a Colby Parkinson touchdown — a play where replays appeared to clearly show his knee touching the turf before the ball crossed the goal line. The reaction inside the Rams’ coaching booth says everything.
Even Los Angeles Didn’t Expect That Ruling
In the clip, a Rams assistant coach can be seen freezing in disbelief as the referee announces the call will stand. His eyes widen, his head snaps back, and he blurts out a stunned response that leaves little doubt he was just as surprised as everyone watching.
That reaction mirrors exactly how Lions fans felt when the replay review failed to overturn the score. From every visible angle, it appeared the runner was down short of the goal line — yet the touchdown was allowed to count anyway.
Moments like this only reinforce the growing sense that Detroit isn’t just battling opposing teams, but questionable officiating as well.
Campbell’s Comments Now Carry Even More Weight
Head coach Dan Campbell added to the frustration a day later, revealing that he received virtually no explanation from the officiating crew after the review.
According to Campbell, officials simply informed him that the ruling on the field would remain unchanged, offering no real clarification as to why the replay evidence wasn’t enough to overturn it. He also confirmed the team planned to reach out to the league office, though longtime fans know how rarely those conversations lead to accountability.
The shock visible on the Rams’ sideline only underscores how baffling the decision truly was.
Everyone Not Wearing Stripes Saw the Same Thing
Viewers at home saw the knee hit the ground. Broadcasters pointed it out. The Lions recognized it. Even the Rams appeared unconvinced.
Yet somehow, the only group empowered to change the call decided otherwise.
With the video now spreading online, Detroit supporters feel vindicated in their belief that the blown ruling had a major impact on the outcome of the game. While the league won’t be revisiting the touchdown, the image of stunned Rams coaches may linger as a symbol of one of the most head-scratching calls of the season.
This play may never be erased from the box score — but it certainly won’t be forgotten anytime soon.
