Carolina Panthers running back Rico Dowdle made headlines this past weekend following a touchdown celebration that drew both penalties and social media attention. Late in the third quarter of the Carolina Panthers’ matchup vs the New York Giants, Dowdle burst free for an electrifying 19-yard touchdown jaunt. He punctuated this glorious moment with not one, but two enthusiastic pelvic thrusts! This celebratory act earned him a flag for unsportsmanlike conduct, and game officials considered it excessive.
The penalty added a 15-yard penalty to the extra-point kick that turned a routine scoring play into a challenge. Though Dowdle might be the story of the day, the Panther’s 16-13 upset win against the Giants highlighted their fighting spirit and determination on the field.
Dowdle said he was aware that his actions could have resulted in serious consequences. “That’s from my understanding. We [discuss] things like this every week in. And to that I say, you absolutely deserve two pumps!” he shouted. He expressed consternation at the balancing act between comedy and decorum in the adult world of professional football.
Six of Dowdle’s teammates participated in the pelvic pump celebration, adding to the fun-loving spirit of the episode. This celebratory style immediately evoked the infamous “substitute teacher” sketch from “Key & Peele.” In that sketch, the character Hingle McCringleberry is known for his comedic three-pump touchdown celebration. The caricature jokingly depicts what is considered an appropriate display of excitement in the game. When McCringleberry continues his wild antics, he is subsequently flagged for excessive celebration.
It was enough to catch the attention of Keegan-Michael Key, one half of the fantastically funny duo “Key & Peele.” He even quoted them approvingly on social media! You just did two pumps!” Tough luck, dude, now I’m gonna have to write a new sketch,” he said. As his story clearly articulated, Dowdle’s celebration extended well beyond the gridiron.
The penalty’s impact was felt right away. Case in point — Panthers kicker Ryan Fitzgerald definitely did, when he missed this extra-point attempt after the 15-yard penalty was enforced. Fortunately, Fitzgerald redeemed himself with a game-winning kick, securing the Panthers’ claim to the ACC Championship title.
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