The Taylor Decker penalty controversy that cost the Lions a late 2-point conversion vs. Cowboys, explained

Let’s break down what the heck happened at the end of the Lions’ loss.

OK, buckle up for this one. It’s a bit of a doozy when it comes to NFL rules and some confusion involving players and officials.

In the Detroit Lions’ 20-19 loss to the Dallas Cowboys, Jared Goff and Co. pulled off what might have been the game-winning two-point conversion, a pass to offensive lineman Taylor Decker that would have put them up 21-20.

But: No. There was a flag. Decker was called for illegal touching, as offensive lineman aren’t allowed to catch forward passes … UNLESS they report in to a referee that they are eligible as a tight end, something that would be announced by the ref over the loudspeaker so the defense and everyone else is aware.

So what happened? Let’s break it down: