Micah Parsons is a one-man wrecking crew. On Sunday, Parsons and the Dallas Cowboys dismantled the Carolina Panthers in a 30-14 win.
Dallas’ defense sacked Panthers rookie quarterback Bryce Young six times, forced multiple turnovers, and made Carolina’s offense look utterly inept. However, despite the win, Parsons didn’t hold back his frustration over a crucial no-call.
Micah Parsons Not Happy With Referee After Being Held
Parsons was blatantly held by Panthers guard Damien Lewis—a foul so obvious that Parsons couldn’t believe the referee ignored it. Taking to social media after the game, Parsons expressed his dismay, writing, “The fact the ref can stand right there and not call this is egregious!!”
The fact the ref can stand right there and not call this is egregious!! https://t.co/KCcMezRkyV
— Micah Parsons (@MicahhParsons11) December 16, 2024
The missed call didn’t stop Parsons from wreaking havoc, although it was a moment that underscored the Cowboys’ ongoing battle against opponents and officiating. Parsons was also held by Cincinnati Bengals offensive tackles on Monday Night Football last week.
Fair refereeing or not, the Cowboys’ defense played like a unit on a mission. It limited Carolina’s running back, Chuba Hubbard, to just 32 yards on 10 carries. Young, meanwhile, was forced into rushed throws and poor decisions all afternoon. After the game, Parsons shared his thoughts on how Dallas dominated:
“They felt like they had to put some points on the board and had to get after it and get way from the run, because it wasn’t hitting early on. It allowed us to be able to get after the quarterback. That’s what complimentary football does. With our offensive playing that well and putting together consistent drives puts pressure on them and they had to get away from their game plan.”
Micah Parsons said that the Panthers went away from the run when it wasn't hitting early and it helped them defensively:
"They felt like they had to put some points on the board and had to get after it and get way from the run, because it wasn’t hitting early on. It allowed us…
— Carolina Blitz (@KeepBlitzin) December 16, 2024
Despite the victory, the Cowboys’ path to the playoffs is anything but smooth. At 6-8, Dallas needs to win its remaining games and get help from other teams to secure a wild-card spot. To make matters worse and make postseason dreams feel like a long shot, Jerry Jones’ team faces tough matchups against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Washington Commanders.
Yet, Parsons remains optimistic. If not for this year, then certainly for next.
“I’ve never given up on anything in life, anything that I ever truly wanted,” he said. “So, to me, I’m always going to keep fighting and clawing. There’s a downfall in every story. We was climaxing and climaxing and we had to [fall]. We fell big. But I know what time it is. I’m looking forward to finishing this year off strong and coming back next year.”
Sunday’s win wasn’t just a statement from the Cowboys; it was a personal statement from Parsons on why the 25-year-old is one of the NFL’s exciting talents. The Cowboys live to fight another day after the win over the Panthers, keeping their slim playoff hopes alive.
Whether they make it to the postseason, the Cowboys’ linebacker is making his voice heard while growing in his leadership role, and he’s here to stay.
