NFL Upholds Green Bay Packers' Victory Following Controversial Blocked Field Goal Incident Against Chicago Bears
ICARO Media Group
**NFL Rules in Favor of Packers Over Controversial Blocked Field Goal**
In a recent review, the NFL has confirmed its support for the Green Bay Packers, refuting the Chicago Bears' claims of a foul during a crucial blocked field goal in their last game at Soldier Field. The disputed play occurred in the final seconds, where a successful block secured a narrow 20-19 victory for the Packers.
Chicago Bears' coach, Matt Eberflus, submitted the play for league review, alleging that the Packers made illegal contact with their long snapper before the pivotal block. If the infringement had been acknowledged, the Bears would have benefited from a 15-yard penalty and a fresh opportunity to attempt the game-winning kick. However, no penalties were called during the game, and the NFL's review upheld the on-field decision.
According to Jason Lieser of the Chicago Sun-Times, the league declared the play "clean" upon review. Despite some contact from Packers defensive lineman T.J. Slaton on the long snapper, it was ruled that this occurred well after the snap and within the permissible timeframe for such contact. The decisive block was executed by Karl Brooks, who overcame a block adjacent to Slaton, using his left arm to deflect the 46-yard field goal attempt.
The investigation concluded that the blocked kick was not a result of any illegal interaction with the long snapper. In reality, multiple Bears players failed in their blocking assignments, allowing Brooks to break through successfully. This decision solidifies the Packers' win and puts to rest any controversy surrounding the play.