This time, it was more than just a simple play that arguably caused the Bears to lose in epic fashion. There was controversy.
Bears LB Cassius Marsh says he was “hip-checked” by a referee and flagged for it
During the fourth quarter of a heated game, a crucial penalty was called against the Bears which is now the subject of much controversy.
Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger was sacked for a seven-yard loss by Bears linebacker Cassius Marsh. Marsh proceeded to celebrate by doing a round-house kick and then gave a glaring look at the Steelers bench. When Marsh trotted back to the Bears bench to get ready for the Steelers punt, he accidentally made contact with referee Tony Corrente.
However, after a careful review of the contact, it appears that Corrente stuck out his hip to get in line with Marsh as he trotted back to the Bears sideline. Once Corrente stuck his hip out for the alleged “hip-check,” he immediately flagged Marsh and the result was a fifteen-yard penalty. The Steelers had the ball as a result of Corrente’s decision as they continued their drive and eventually kicked a field goal.
Here is what Marsh had to say about the contact from Corrente and the penalty:
This season, the NFL has placed an emphasis on calling penalties for taunting. Some will argue that Marsh not only performed a round-house kick but then proceeded to walk towards the Steelers bench for an extended glare before beginning to retreat back to the Bears’ sideline.
However, there are others that may argue that the flag was only thrown by Corrente after the contact and not immediately after the round-house kick or the extended glare to the Steelers’ bench.
What did Tony Corrente say about his call?
Corrente received flak from fans and players on social media after the game. When asked about the controversial call, he said:
Corrente continued:
Depending on who you ask, Corrente is either in the clear or is either possibly a candidate for a call from the league for an intentional “hip check.”
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