The Las Vegas Raiders defense thought they had a defensive stop, forcing Washington into a punt late in the second quarter. However, Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby was penalized for a questionable roughing the passer on Washington quarterback Taylor Heinicke.
It appears Crosby was flagged for driving down and putting his weight on Heinicke, which by the letter of the rule was the correct call. But the letter of rule is making it hard for defenders to make any contact with a quarterback.
The reaction by many on Twitter echoes the difficulty that now exists for defenses against quarterbacks.
Meanwhile, the officials called Crosby for roughing the passer but may have missed an illegal hands to the face by Washington running back Wendell Smallwood.
Washington received 15 yards and the automatic first down on the call. They were able to shave off another minute and eight seconds before eventually punting to the Raiders.
The Raiders had 1:41 to work, and ultimately had to settle for a field goal on their final first half possession as the second wind down. Washington took a 7-3 lead into the half. Surely, Raiders and some football fans are not happy with the roughing the passer call.
