The uproar over Rock Ya-Sin’s late penalty kept the football world buzzing after Detroit’s 16- 9 loss in Philadelphia. The Lions were one snap away from forcing a punt and giving Jared Goff a final shot, but a flag on third down changed everything. Detroit instantly challenged the logic behind the call, and fans erupted online, with players voicing disbelief in the locker room. By Monday, the league’s explanation landed through the pool report.
NFL journalist Tom Pelissero X post shared the exact stance: “Referee Alex Kemp to pool reporter @ZBerm on the critical pass interference call against Lions CB Rock Ya-Sin on Sunday night: ‘The official observed the receiver’s arm getting grabbed and restricting him from going up to make the catch.”
Referee Alex Kemp to pool reporter @ZBerm on the critical pass interference call against Lions CB Rock Ya-Sin on Sunday night: “The official observed the receiver’s arm getting grabbed and restricting him from going up to make the catch.” pic.twitter.com/iuYm9TVaeB
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) November 17, 2025
Lions CB Rock Ya-Sin Penalized Late After Physical Duel With A.J. Brown
Rock Ya-Sin
Nov 16, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown (11) reacts after making a catch against Detroit Lions cornerback Rock Ya-Sin (23) during the first half at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
The incident unfolded with 1:51 left on November 16. Philadelphia faced a third and eight near midfield, and Detroit had tightened the game behind a defense that kept Jalen Hurts uncomfortable all night. Brown lined up outside against Ya-Sin, a matchup that had been physical from the first quarter. Both players traded strong reps. Brown used his size to shield targets. Ya-Sin countered with disciplined leverage and close coverage.
On the critical snap, Hurts lofted a deep comeback toward Brown. Ya-Sin mirrored the route, closed the cushion, and forced Brown to adjust late. The ball sailed high, and it looked like Detroit had earned a stop. Then the flag landed. Officials ruled that Ya-Sin restricted Brown’s arm during the jump. The replay showed hand fighting from both sides, which had been allowed all game, and that sparked the frustration.
Inside the locker room, teammates rallied around Ya-Sin. Amik Robertson voiced what many felt. He said the entire roster trusted Ya-Sin and believed the coverage was clean. The corner himself took the high road. He said he needed to get his head around it sooner and that Brown often gets the benefit of close calls. Still, his disappointment was obvious.
Dan Campbell strongly backed his corner. He said Ya-Sin played the route the way Detroit teaches it and added that he would not change anything about the technique. Campbell pointed out that the officials had allowed similar contact throughout the night, which made the timing of the call sting even more.
The explanation from Kemp clarified why the flag was thrown, but it did little to cool the debate. Detroit’s turning attention toward the Giants, fueled by frustration but also drive. Campbell told reporters they’re nearly clicking into place – close enough that rough moments only push them harder down the stretch.