Troy Aikman Calls Out NFL Refs After Taunting Penalty on Jalen Hurts

It’s safe to say that ESPN analyst and Hall of Fame quarterback Troy Aikman isn’t a fan of the current state of NFL officiating.  During the first half of the Philadelphia Eagles vs. Atlanta Falcons game, Aikman called out the referees for calling a delay of game on QB Jalen Hurts following a big run where he spiked the ball in celebration.

Aikman reasoned that it should not have been a taunting penalty since there was no malice in the action, and no defender in the area to be taunted.  The only problem is that by rule, anytime a player spikes the ball in the field of play, a penalty has to be called.

“I don’t like the call… There was no taunt to that at all.” – Troy Aikman

“Troy, by rule it’s a delay-of-game… it’s not a taunt. It’s when you spike the ball in the field of play, it’s an automatic foul by rule.” ESPN rules analyst Russell Yurk #MNF #NFL 🏈📺🎙️🦓 pic.twitter.com/O5TV9Xieyw

— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) September 17, 2024

Whether Aikman likes the call or the rule, by the letter of the law, it was the right move by the officials.  It didn’t end up costing the Eagles in the moment, but Philadelphia did end up falling to the Falcons at home, losing 22-21. Kirk Cousins and Atlanta drove the length of the field in the final minute to score the go-ahead touchdown, and an interception from Jessie Bates III sealed the victory on the final drive from the Eagles.  Philadelphia has now fallen to 1-1 on the season, while the Falcons improved to 1-1.