That'll teach him! http://www.nfl.com/news/story?id=09000d5d80ad6fb6&template=with-video&confirm=true
I don't think Hochuli is the problem. Big deal. I thought it was a fumble when I saw it live, but I had to watch the replay to be sure. The problem is that instant replay should have easily corrected that call, but didn't. The Chargers recovered the fumble maybe a split second after the whistle blew. The whistle didn't interfere with the Broncos' ability to recover the fumble. Every single person who watched the game knows it was a fumble and the Chargers recovered it. If the instant replay can't uphold common sense, then it isn't being used properly.
The way the rules are written right now, the officials should keep the whistle in their pockets on any questionable play.
The rule is in there because owners and coaches don't want to risk their quarterbacks to injury by having them go after every potential fumble. That's why the ruling was made the way it was. It's sad but I guess that's just the way the game is now. I feel bad for the Chargers but they did let Denver in the end zone and also allowed them to convert the two point conversation.
There's a certain amount of truth to that. OTOH, they shouldn't have been in that situation to begin with.
I agree, especially with the first two paragraphs. Its designed to protect the QB; even if it comes at the expense of real football being played... and games being decided on faulty premises.
In this case, I think Denver actually did the classy thing by going for two. The touchdown was junk and Hochuli admitted as much. So why not go for two (and the win) and make the Chargers stop you? This could have been a lot worse. It could have been in the AFC Championship Game *cough* Raiders *cough*
I never thought about it that way Pack Attack... I thought Shannahan went for it because he felt his defense couldn't stop San Diego.