Texans score controversial TD thanks to illegal challenge by Schwartz

In one of the weirdest examples of how a rule can influence a ballgame, the Thanksgiving day game between the Lions and Texans turned on the throwing of a red challenge flag.

Justin Forsett scored the longest run in Texans franchise history, an 81-yard dash during the 3rd quarter. Had the Lions coach Jim Schwartz not thrown a challenge flag, this play would not have been ruled a touchdown.

While Forsett’s elbow and knee were down, the refs didn’t blow the whistle before he scampered off into the end zone. Jim Schwartz challenged the play, yet this effort was illegal, and it negated the automatic review on every touchdown play. This was a terrible, unfortunate break for the Lions, who lost to the Texans, 34-31.

Turkey is not tasting as good in Detroit anymore.

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