Brian Callahan Lashes Out at Officiating Following Titans’ Loss to Vikings
In a game that left players and fans alike frustrated, Tennessee Titans offensive coordinator Brian Callahan didn’t mince words as he criticized the officiating following the team’s narrow 27-24 defeat against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday. The loss dropped the Titans to 5-6 on the season, but it was the controversial calls—or lack thereof—that stole the spotlight.
“We played hard, we executed when we needed to, but it’s tough to win when you’re battling the guys in stripes as well as the team on the other side,” Callahan said during his post-game press conference. “Some of the decisions made out there were beyond comprehension. It felt like we were climbing uphill all game.”
Key Controversial Calls
The most contentious moment came late in the fourth quarter with the Titans driving to tie or win the game. Facing a 3rd-and-8 from the Vikings’ 35-yard line, quarterback Will Levis connected with wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins on what appeared to be a first-down completion. However, the play was negated by a questionable offensive pass interference call against Hopkins. Replays showed minimal contact, prompting an uproar from Titans players and coaches.
“That call changed everything,” Callahan said. “Hop (Hopkins) made a great play, clean as can be, and they took it away from us. It’s unacceptable.”
Adding to the frustration was a missed defensive holding call against the Vikings earlier in the game. Derrick Henry was visibly pulled back by his jersey on a critical 2nd-and-goal play in the second quarter, forcing the Titans to settle for a field goal.
“These are game-changing moments,” Callahan emphasized. “You expect better from the officiating at this level. This isn’t Pop Warner; these calls have massive implications.”
Impact on the Game
The Titans entered the game needing a win to keep their playoff hopes alive in a crowded AFC race. Despite a strong performance by Henry, who rushed for 115 yards and two touchdowns, and an emerging connection between Levis and his receiving corps, the team couldn’t overcome the penalties and missed opportunities.
In total, the Titans were flagged eight times for 85 yards, compared to just three penalties for 20 yards against the Vikings. The disparity only fueled Callahan’s frustrations.
“It’s hard to compete when it feels like the rules aren’t applied evenly,” he said. “The players deserve better. The fans deserve better.”
League Response
The NFL has yet to comment on the officiating in Sunday’s game, but Callahan’s remarks will likely draw attention from the league office. Criticizing officials publicly can result in fines, but Callahan appeared unbothered by the potential consequences.
“I’ll take whatever comes,” he said. “If calling out the obvious helps make the game better, it’s worth it.”
Looking Ahead
With six games left in the regular season, the Titans face an uphill battle to reach the playoffs. However, Callahan remains confident in his team’s ability to bounce back.
“We’re going to focus on what we can control,” he said. “We’ve got the talent, we’ve got the heart, and we’re going to keep fighting. But I hope the league takes a good, hard look at what happened today.”
For now, though, the sting of Sunday’s loss—and the officiating controversies that marred it—will linger in Nashville.