THE SPORTSMISTAKES RECORD

Jerry Rice Fumble No-Call

1999 • NFL • Referee Mistake • Missed Fumble
Jerry Rice Fumble No-Call — SportsMistakes artwork

THE STORY

In the 1998 NFC Wild Card game on January 3, 1999, San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Jerry Rice caught a pass and appeared to fumble after being hit by Green Bay Packers defenders Scott McGarrahan and Bernardo Harris. Officials ruled it an incomplete pass, allowing the 49ers to retain possession. They subsequently scored a touchdown, winning 30-27 and advancing to the next playoff round.

TEAMS / PEOPLE: San Francisco 49ers, Green Bay Packers

WHY IT MATTERS

The controversial non-call led to debates about officiating accuracy and the potential impact of instant replay in the NFL.

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