Nine rule changes were made this past week at the NFL owners meeting in Boca Raton, Florida. But nothing was done to clarify what constitutes a catch in the NFL. The NFL’s stance seems to be, sorry fans if you’re confused, but we think it’s pretty clear.
But In 2015, there were 139 coaches’ challenges over pass completions. This was the most among all categories—which has been the case every year since 2008 when the league started tracking the data. The official rule (here) seems clear yet so many “catches” that look like catches have been ruled incomplete. Is it a matter of subjectivity as to how long a player holds on to the ball before he or the ball touches the ground. Well, the owners didn’t change the rule, so expect another year of questions and confusion and debate on “Was that a catch?” Pictured are some plays of the past few years that were ruled incomplete and prompted much debate.
Pic 1 - Cowboys WR Dez Bryant vs Packers Jan. 11, 2015 - Divisional Playoff. The catch call was reversed. The Packers won 26-21. (AP Photo/Matt Ludtke)
Pic 2 – Lions WR Calvin Johnson vs Bears Sept. 10, 2010 - with seconds left in game, apparent TD catch ruled incomplete and the Bears won 19-14. Source
Pic 3 - Giants WR Odell Beckham Jr vs Patriots Nov. 15, 2015 - Go-ahead TD ruling reversed. Pats won 27-26. Source
Pic 4 - Panthers WR Jericho Cotchery vs Broncos Feb. 7 2016 Super Bowl - looks like a catch after replay, but refs says “there was not enough confirmation" to overturn Source