Mike McCarthy and the Dallas Cowboys’ Super Bowl dreams were brought to a halt by the 49ers. Post the game where San Francisco managed to edge them out, the team was far from happy.
Head coach McCarthy seemed to be emotionally wound up after the disappointing game and was not going to hide it. One particular incident that occurred after the game was brought to light, sparking outrage before more clarity was provided.
Mike McCarthy found himself in a sticky situation
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Losing is difficult, and of that, there is no doubt. Combined with the adrenaline rush and the competitive spirit of those in the NFL, there’s bound to be a fire. With a shot at the championship on the line, the stakes were much higher than usual. After reconciling with the fact that their Super Bowl dreams were now in the past, the Cowboys were in no mood for pleasantries.
As the 4ers drank in their victory the spotlight turned to Mike McCarthy, who was walking away from the field. Fans were quick to spot the head coach entangled with one of the cameramen- making them assume that McCarthy had pushed the man out of his way.
Quite obviously, that started an uproar. But here’s where the situation gets interesting. Perception, as it seems, holds the power over the narrative that is communicated within seconds. Shortly after the supposed incident, the cameraman, Noah Bullard, reached out to refute the statements that pointedly accused McCarthy of inciting the supposed violent push.
Thank you to everyone that has reached out regarding the Mike McCarthy incident. I can see how the photo appeared like he pushed me but it was more of a hand to the lens. I did meet with coach McCarthy privately in his office and he did apologize. @NBCDFW #DallasCowboys pic.twitter.com/LuOfPVRqhq
— Noah Bullard (@noah_bullard) January 23, 2023
Camera angles verify that the head coach put his hand on the lens to avoid being filmed. Bullard also stated that McCarthy had apologized for his actions.
Fans were quick to start the McCarthy fire (and thankfully, quick to quell it)
Fans took to Twitter to share their thoughts on what had occurred. This fan was quick to correct those who believed that McCarthy pushed the cameraman
Except he didn't.
— Scott A. S. (@CowboysOptimist) January 23, 2023
Another user was able to find a humorous take and alluded to Cowboys owner Jerry Jones being a not-so-happy camper after the loss.
May as well Jerry about to push him out the door.
— Lando Parkour (@olrock13) January 23, 2023
One fan commented on the low spirits of the Cowboys’ squad
Cowboys are devastated….maybe next year or two
— Victor Gavidia (@VictorGavidia17) January 23, 2023
This user offered other fans proof of McCarthy’s actions
He touched the camera. pic.twitter.com/3VabC4oVxq
— Danny from the Bay! (@Cappers54) January 23, 2023
Another user made a hilarious comment by saying McCarthy’s actions were part of the last play of the game which seems to have baffled the NFL world.
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that was the last part of the play
— Jon McCarthy (@jonmccarthySUN) January 23, 2023
This incident may be a pointed reminder that all narratives, regardless of the source, come from a singular perception. McCarthy was able to find redemption because of the proof of his non-malicious actions. While the NFL world indulges in speculation and banter, it’s heartwarming to see fans serve as fact-checkers.
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As the dust around their loss settles, the Cowboys will hope to come back stronger next season. On the other hand, ‘Mr. Anything But Irrelevant’ Brock Purdy and the 49ers will hope to carry their good form as they take on the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC Championship Game.