The infamous “Did Dez catch it?” A play from the 2014 NFC Divisional Round between the Dallas Cowboys and Green Bay Packers remains a source of debate, memes, and discussion about the definition of a catch in the NFL. But beyond that moment, Dez Bryant’s legacy as a football icon stems from a stellar college career with the Oklahoma State Cowboys and an NFL run that showcased his exceptional talent.
Remembering Former Oklahoma State WR Dez Bryant’s Controversial Call, 10 Years Later
At the beginning of the fourth quarter, with as little as four minutes left, Tony Romo threw a 31-yard pass to Bryant on fourth-and-2. Bryant seemed to catch a spectacular jump, getting hold of the ball with one hand and then transferring it to the other before hitting the ground at the goal line.
10 years ago today … did Dez catch it? 🤔pic.twitter.com/ipTWXWevhf
— FanDuel Sportsbook (@FDSportsbook) January 11, 2025
The officials initially ruled it a catch, but after a Packers challenge, the call was overturned.
Referees cited the infamous “process of the catch” rule, stating Bryant did not maintain possession through the ground. The overturned flag terminated the Cowboys’ drive, and Green Bay could run the clock out and would go on to win the NFC Championship.
“I caught it,” Bryant has said repeatedly over the years, a sentiment echoed by countless fans, analysts, and former players. Even the NFL confessed in 2018 that the play should have been deemed a catch according to a redefinition. Notwithstanding the league’s ultimate recognition, the controversy remains embedded in NFL lore.
Dez Bryant’s College Stardom at Oklahoma State
Before his NFL fame and controversial catch, Bryant built his reputation as a star wide receiver for Oklahoma State. A 2008 consensus All-American, Bryant’s explosive play and ability to control opponents’ defenses made him one of college football’s craziest players.
During his 2007 freshman season, Bryant got off to a quick start, catching 43 passes for 622 yards and six touchdowns. His mix of size, speed, and maneuverability created the blueprint for the future.
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Bryant’s breakout season came in 2008, cementing him as one of the country’s best wide receivers. He snagged 87 receptions for 1,480 yards (fourth in the nation) and finished the year with the second-most touchdowns in college football (19). He also returned two punts for touchdowns. His play resulted in Consensus All-American honors, creating interest as a future early NFL Draft selection.
Bryant’s college career ended in scandal, as the NCAA made him inactive for the rest of the season after three games for a false story about talking with the great Deion Sanders. Although a setback occurred, his enormous performances (17 catches, 323 yards, and 4 touchdowns) emphasize his game-changing ability.
Bryant’s NFL Legacy
Having been drafted with the 24th overall pick of the 2010 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys, Bryant quickly emerged as one of the league’s best receivers. Over his eight-year career, he amassed 537 receptions, 7,506 receiving yards, and 73 touchdowns.
Bryant’s physicality, leaping ability, and knack for spectacular catches earned him three Pro Bowl selections and solidified his place in Cowboys history.
The “Did Dez catch it?” moment symbolizes more than just a controversial play. It’s a testament to Bryant’s ability to make jaw-dropping plays and his larger-than-life presence on the field. Even as the conversation about the catch of the game weather, Bryant’s legacy on the game still continues, as a college and pro football icon.
Dez Bryant’s legacy is unshakable.
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