Buccaneers Head Coach Todd Bowles Challenges NFL Over Missed Call on Eagles CB
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Sunday’s clash between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Philadelphia Eagles ended in a narrow 31-23 loss for Tampa, but controversy didn’t stop when the final whistle blew. Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles has reportedly submitted video evidence to the NFL, arguing that officials missed a blatant penalty on Eagles cornerback during a crucial second-quarter play.
The moment in question came on a pass attempt to wide receiver Chris Godwin. Replay clearly showed Godwin’s jersey being pulled back as he tried to make his break, yet no flag was thrown despite an official being in clear position to see the contact. What could have been a first down – or at minimum a significant yardage gain – instead killed Tampa’s drive and shifted momentum toward Philadelphia.
Bowles expressed his frustration after the game: “That was a clear missed call, and everyone can see it on tape. We sent the footage to the league. In a game this close, you can’t afford for something that obvious to go uncalled.”
The missed call drew heavy reaction online, with Buccaneers fans calling it an “awful blown call” and even neutral observers admitting it was hard to justify the no-flag decision. Eagles fans, meanwhile, pushed back, pointing out that Tampa also benefited from questionable no-calls earlier in the matchup.
While the NFL has not yet publicly commented on Bowles’ complaint, the situation highlights ongoing debates about officiating consistency in high-stakes games. For the Buccaneers, the controversy only deepens the sting of a loss that could have easily swung the other way.