NFL Fans Crushed Refs Over Awful Call That Took Away a Texans’ Fumble-Return TD

The Texans and Broncos found themselves in an AFC showdown on Sunday with massive potential playoff implications.

With both teams heading into the game at 6-5 and sitting just outside the current postseason picture, a win could catapult either team into a potential playoff spot, something virtually no one would have predicted at the start of the season.

Houston nearly put the game away in the middle of the third quarter. Already leading 16-3, it appeared that Houston cornerback Desmond King had successfully torn the ball out of the hands of Denver running back Samaje Perine, and taken the fumble for a score.

But the touchdown did not stand, as it was ruled that Perine's forward progress had been stopped before he lost the ball.

True or false: This should’ve been a fumble and a touchdown for Desmond King… pic.twitter.com/8JLTUEkFjb

— Bradeaux (@BradeauxNBA) December 3, 2023

Fans were, understandably, furious with the decision.

The only question that needs to be asked:

If, instead of a strip and score, the RB breaks that tackle and runs for a first down… would they nullify that for forward progress?

No chance in hell. https://t.co/IfMWoLvnSb

— Ben DuBose (@BenDuBose) December 3, 2023

This should have 100% been a fumble and a touchdown. They didn't blow a whistle. He literally was breaking out of the tackle (or attempting to).

Just a horrific call there. https://t.co/e3StkRWbvQ

— Jordon Johnson (@Lochmire) December 3, 2023

100% a fumble https://t.co/BysbUWaDTr

— Michael Schwab (@michaelschwab13) December 3, 2023

Ball carrier is still fighting for yards. Should've been a fumble https://t.co/0IYITyhkRH

— Anthony Duckett (@a_duckett) December 3, 2023

There aren’t even words for how bad this is https://t.co/tR1Qf15AE9

— LebronJamesHarden™️ (@LBJamesHarden) December 3, 2023

I just can’t believe my eyes lol what are the refs doing ???? https://t.co/26u3wFXNdE

— JD (@jdredman16) December 3, 2023