Bogus NFL rule deprived Cowboys' Micah Parsons of signature DPOY moment vs Jets

The Dallas Cowboys moved to 2-0 on the season following their win over the New York Jets on Sunday.

Much like Week 1, Micah Parsons was the best player on the field. He barreled his way into the backfield for a sack on third down on the Jets' first possession that sent AT&T Stadium into a frenzy. Parsons didn't get to Zach Wilson again until the fourth quarter, but he was disruptive all game.

Helmed by Jim Nantz and Tony Romo, the CBS broadcast ran out of adjectives and praise for Parsons. Nantz even stressed that this was Parsons' best game as a pro. It's big statement from Nantz, as Parsons has too many best game candidates to choose from over his two-plus seasons in the NFL.

What would have cemented Sunday as Parsons' premier performance? If his scoop-and-score touchdown wasn't called back.

In the second quarter, Parsons ripped the ball out of Dalvin Cook's hands and returned it for a touchdown. Upon further review, the score was overturned after replay showed Parsons was grazed by Jets guard Laken Tomlinson as he recovered the loose football.

Cowboys' Micah Parsons nearly had signature Defensive Player of the Year moment vs Jets.

This game absolutely cemented Parsons as the DPOY favorite. In two games, Parsons has three sacks, six quarterback hits and a fumble recovery. Pro Football Focus has yet to release its Week 2 review, but Parsons had to rack up another half-dozen or so pressures after he managed six against the Giants in Week 1.

Ultimately, though, this is a bogus extension of the "down by contact" rule, as Tomlinson made no effort to touch Parsons down. The two-time All-Pro was simply unlucky to have made contact with the guard's shin before he took off for the end zone.

Are we making a fuss over nothing? Perhaps. The Cowboys won by 20 points and have outscored opponents 70-10 through two games.

If Tomlinson reached out with his hand (or leg) to ensure Parsons was down, this wouldn't a discussion. It's just unfortunate for Parsons, who wrecked the Jets' passing game all night and deserved this moment.

The important thing is Parsons is unbothered and hungry for more.

The Lion's gotta eat and Parsons will do plenty of that this season.

At the end of the day, there's still 15 games for Parsons to have his signature DPOY moment. If Parsons does this on a bigger stage (primetime) against a certified contender, that will undoubtedly qualify has his "moment."

It's just hard to envision Parsons causing a fumble and returning it for a touchdown again, but if there's anyone who can do it, it's him.

Either way, the DPOY crown is Parsons to lose.