It was an uneventful game through the first quarter. The "Monday Night Football" matchup between the Minnesota Vikings and Chicago Bears was bound to heat up, though -- if only because the two are NFC North division rivals -- and Chicago cornerback Jaylon Johnson made sure of that with 11:43 to go in the second quarter.
On 2nd and 12 from the Minnesota 35, Vikings quarterback Joshua Dobbs was victimized by Johnson for an interception. Johnson climbed the ladder and high-pointed the football to make a beautiful play in the deep flat.
JAYLON JOHNSON IS ⬇️
— PFF (@PFF) November 28, 2023
pic.twitter.com/iWJ2crrYzY
It was a 20-yard interception return from Johnson and hypothetically, that play set up the Bears with great field position at the Minnesota 37.
The only problem?
Defensive back Kyler Gordon was penalized 15 yards for one of the most bizarre taunting penalties you'll ever see.
Kyler Gordon got penalized 15 yards for taking off his helmet on the field of play.
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) November 28, 2023
His facemask was broken and is literally dangling around.pic.twitter.com/aXrLFbpyz3
What was Gordon supposed to do at that point?
Sure, an argument could be made that he should have known better to take the helmet off on the field during the return, but are we really calling this taunting in 2023?
The "No Fun League" is apparently back.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!