Falcons' Arthur Smith Reveals Thoughts on Mack Hollins TD Reversal

"They have a tough job. It is what it is, and it's our job to move on," Atlanta Falcons coach Arthur Smith said postgame. "Thankfully we were able to come back and get the win.”

The Atlanta Falcons appeared to tie the game impressive touchdown in the third quarter of Sunday's game against the Green Bay Packers inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Falcons quarterback Desmond Ridder connected with receiver Mack Hollins for an 11-yard touchdown pass in the back of the end zone, and the officials initially called it exactly that.

But then, upon review, the play was overturned. Was it the right call? Here's a look at the replay ...

Should this have been ruled a catch for Mack Hollins? pic.twitter.com/6Bw8T1uTgD

— Covers (@Covers) September 17, 2023

Trailing 17-9 midway through the third quarter, the Falcons were in need of a touchdown, and it seemed that Hollins was able to get both of his toes in-bounds to deliver exactly that.

But the officials, who needed to see clear and convincing evidence to overturn the call on the field, evidently disagreed, taking the touchdown off the board.

"They have a tough job. It is what it is, and it's our job to move on," coach Arthur Smith said postgame. "Thankfully we were able to come back and get the win.”

Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Mack Hollins (18) reacts after a catch against the Green Bay Packers in the second half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium / Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

The following play, Falcons running back Tyler Allgeier was dropped for a two-yard loss on an outside run, setting up a 3rd and 12 in which Ridder was sacked by Packers pass rushers Rashan Gary and Kenny Clark.

Should the touchdown have stood, it would have been Hollins' first since signing with the Falcons this spring. The timing was on-point, too, as he celebrated his 30th birthday Saturday.

However, it wasn't meant to be, and Atlanta was forced to settle for a 33-yard field goal from kicker Younghoe Koo.

The Falcons were ultimately able to complete the comeback with a 25-24 win, but if Atlanta had lost, Hollins' called back "touchdown" would have been looked at with a little more vitriol.