TAMPA - Jon Gruden was right.
The Bucs coach should have won a replay challenge Sunday in Atlanta, according to NFL supervisor of officials Mike Pereira.
On the play in question, linebacker Cato June forced a fumble by Falcons receiver Roddy White. Cornerback Brian Kelly recovered and, as he was being tackled, pitched the ball to June, who fumbled it away.
Referee Walt Coleman should have reviewed the entire play but determined that the Bucs were seeking only a ruling on whether Kelly was down before pitching to June. Replay showed June down by contact before losing the football.
"He can challenge any portion of that play," Pereira said. "It is our responsibility after that to review the whole play and even elements that he doesn't challenge. So really Gruden is right ... Tampa Bay should have had that ball at the end of the play."
Gruden felt vindicated - not that he ever had any doubt.
"We were right on the instant replay," Gruden said. "Review the play, that's what you're supposed to do. That's the rules. That's what they tell us. I don't know why there's any question, and obviously now there is no question if the head of the officiating says so.
"It's unfortunate because my challenge record is tarnished now. So put an asterisk next to that for all the stat people out there."
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