NFL, Elias reviewing Peyton Manning passing record: lateral or pass? [View all]

[Upton]

In Week 17 against the Raiders, Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning broke the single-season record for passing yards, beating Drew Brees old record by a single yard. But he might not hold onto the record for long.

The NFL is reportedly reviewing a 7-yard pass by Manning to Eric Decker with about a minute remaining in the first quarter, which could very well be wiped off the books. If it was wiped off, Manning's record would be voided as well.

On the play in question, Decker lined up in the slot:


Decker basically steps backwards with Manning making a quick-hitting throw. Here Manning is cocking his arm back to throw:


When Manning releases the ball there's very little question that Decker is behind him (the ball is in the air at this point):


And when Decker makes the catch, he and Manning are insanely close in terms of what yardage marker they're on:


According to the NFL rulebook, a forward pass requires "the ball initially moves forward (to a point nearer the opponent's goal line) after leaving the passer's hand(s)."

http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/eye-on-football/24393148/nfl-elias-reviewing-peyton-manning-passing-record

It clearly looks like a lateral and if the NFL rules that way, Manning will finish the season 6 yards short of the record..They'll no doubt let him slide though..