The horse collar call

[Rain Man]

Originally Posted by O.city

Spoke to a few NFL refs this morning and a couple that are retired:

1) “The official on the left hash behind the Offense would be responsible for calling a hold if he sees one, from that view, not a hold”

2) “If the blocker is strong enough to keep a defender directly in front… pic.twitter.com/SFRNEXXjTt

— Duke Manyweather (@BigDuke50) October 2, 2023

The ref had the best view ever and didn't call it, so I'll trust his judgment that it wasn't a hold. I would be a bit upset if the situation was reversed, but I'm willing to learn.

I found that play hilarious, though, because the defender was absolutely helpless. He was banging Donovan in the face (which seems like it should be a penalty) and still couldn't get loose. If Donovan didn't let go at the end of the play, the guy would still be out there on the field trying to get away.