VP of replay addresses controversial challenge, non-call from Panthers' loss to Broncos

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The Denver Broncos might've gotten away with one (or two . . . or three) here in Week 9 against the Carolina Panthers.

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Carolina, up 14-13 with less than two minutes remaining in the third quarter, opted for a pass on a first-and-goal from Denver's 1-yard line. But what was initially ruled an incompletion was overturned by a late challenge by Broncos head coach Sean Payton—one that was acknowledged by officials after a whole ensuing play, a rush from running back Chuba Hubbard, was snapped and completed.

After review, the referees determined that safety Devon Key actually intercepted the ball off a deflection. Take a look . . .

In addition to allowing the red flag from Payton, officials also drew some ire for missing what many believed should've been a defensive pass interference committed on tight end Tommy Tremble. Had that been called, the pick would be wiped out—resulting in a new set of downs for the Panthers from the 1-yard line.

Per Joe Person of The Athletic, here's what the NFL's vice president of instant replay Mark Butterworth had to say about the controversial sequence of events . . .

Well, that's what they told Panthers head coach Dave Canales—who was asked about the challenge following the 26-21 defeat.

"They confirmed that he did throw the challenge flag before we snapped the ball on that very next play," Canales stated. "So, I gotta go from their word. I don't have that at my disposal, but they did confirm it that they got the flag out."

Tremble also chatted with reporters after the loss, and admitted he was a bit confused by it all . . .

By game's end, the Panthers were penalized 13 times for a total loss of 119 yards. The Broncos were flagged eight times for 50 yards.

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This article originally appeared on Panthers Wire: VP of replay addresses controversial challenge, non-call from Panthers' loss to Broncos

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