Parsons criticizes officiating following loss: 'We're not here to play tag'

Dallas Cowboys rookie linebacker Micah Parsons didn't hold back when discussing the officiating during the team's 36-33 overtime loss to the Las Vegas Raiders on Thursday.

The Cowboys were flagged 14 times for a franchise-record 166 yards during the defeat, according to Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News.

"I think we should play football," Parsons said postgame, according to Jon Machota of The Athletic. "We're not here to play tag."

Parsons, who was flagged for a roughing the passer call in the game, continued criticizing the officiating following his presser.

Lol this was roughing the passer! Never been a dirty guy! But can someone teach me how I could have played this better?! https://t.co/MmgZBJQLLx

- Micah Parsons (@MicahhParsons11) November 26, 2021

Cornerback Anthony Brown was also flagged four times for pass interference, including a crucial violation in overtime that helped set up Daniel Carlson's game-winning 29-yard field goal.

Cowboys owner Jerry Jones expressed his disappointment with the officiating.

"I call it throw up ball,'" Jones said, per Gehlken. "This will arguably be the most-watched game other than the Super Bowl. I hate that it got down to just throwing the ball up and getting the penalties to get you big plays."

The Thanksgiving game saw both teams combine for 28 penalties totaling 276 yards.

#Cowboys HC Mike McCarthy 28 penalties, I don't know what the hell you want me to say"

- Jane Slater (@SlaterNFL) November 26, 2021

Dallas has now lost three of its last four games following the Thanksgiving defeat.

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