The NFL has acknowledged a critical officiating error in the closing moments of Sunday’s Panthers-Saints clash - and it’s one that could have major implications in the NFC South race.
With the game tied late in the fourth quarter, Bryce Young appeared to connect with rookie wideout Tetairoa McMillan on a 12-yard completion that would’ve moved the chains and given Carolina the ball near their own 41-yard line. It was a crucial play, coming just before the two-minute warning, with the Panthers trying to position themselves for a game-winning drive.
But Saints head coach Kellen Moore challenged the ruling on the field. After review, the officials reversed the call, declaring the pass incomplete.
That forced Carolina to punt, and New Orleans capitalized. Tyler Shough led a composed drive, setting up Charlie Smyth for a 47-yard field goal that ultimately sealed a dramatic 20-17 Saints victory.
Here's where it gets messy: according to a report, the league has since admitted - privately - that the call on the field should not have been overturned. The replay review, by rule, requires “clear and obvious” evidence to reverse a decision. In this case, the NFL reportedly told the Panthers that such a standard wasn’t met, and the catch should have stood.
That’s not just a missed call - it’s a missed opportunity. The Panthers entered the night knowing a win would’ve put them alone atop the NFC South, thanks to the Buccaneers’ loss to Atlanta just two days earlier. Instead, they’re left to stew over a game that slipped away - not just because of execution, but because of officiating.
And this isn’t an isolated incident. Just a week ago, the Cowboys were left fuming after Jake Ferguson was flagged for offensive pass interference on a play where Detroit’s Alex Anzalone appeared to initiate the contact. It’s becoming a frustrating trend: receivers making plays, only to have the moment undone by questionable calls.
But for Carolina, the path forward is clear - and still very much in their control.
They return home this week to face the reeling Buccaneers, with a chance to get right back in the driver’s seat. And if they can sweep Tampa Bay - they’ll meet again in Week 18 - the Panthers will claim their first division title since 2015.
That’s not just a silver lining. That’s the goal.
McMillan, for his part, continues to be a revelation in his rookie campaign. The 22-year-old has hauled in 59 catches for 851 yards and six touchdowns - finally giving Bryce Young the go-to target he’s needed. His emergence has transformed this Panthers offense, and his consistency has been a major reason why Carolina is still in the hunt.
Yes, the officiating misstep stings. And yes, it could have shifted the outcome of a critical game.
But the Panthers don’t need any help from the league office to punch their ticket. They’ve got two games left that will decide everything.
And with McMillan and Young continuing to grow together, there’s every reason to believe they can finish the job.