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The Takeaway, Vikings vs. Packers: Dubious roughing penalty casts shadow over tie

A single play rarely determines the outcome of a football game, but one can often come to define it. Such a moment occurred during the final two minutes of regulation during Sunday’s NFC North tilt between the Minnesota Vikings and Green Bay Packers.

On the Vikings’ final drive of regulation, pass rusher Clay Matthews hit Kirk Cousins just as the quarterback released the football. Moments later, the ball fell into the waiting arms for rookie corner Jaire Alexander for the game-sealing interception. Alexander performed his first Lambeau Leap

However, while Alexander performed his first Lambeau Leap, the officials flagged Matthews for roughing the passer, a penalty which reversed the turnover and extended the Vikings’ drive.