To say that Jim Harbaugh disagreed with the referees' ruling on what appeared to be a crucial call late in the NFC Championship Game would be accurate. But to say that the 49ers' coach threw down an epic tantrum after that close call was upheld by a video review would better convey the vitriolic majesty of what transpired. On the play in question, Falcons wide receiver Harry Douglas was credited with a reception after it appeared the ball may have hit the ground.
Upon learning that the call on the field of a catch had been confirmed, Harbaugh jumped up in disbelief, with a look of pure agony on his face. Whether intentional or not, he knocked off his headset. He then wheeled around to unload on an official.
Fortunately for Harbaugh and any officials stationed near him, the 49ers' defense was able withstand the Falcons' comeback bid to clinch a spot in Super Bowl XLVII. Six plays later, linebacker NaVorro Bowman knocked away a fourth-down pass thrown by Matt Ryan toward Roddy White deep in San Francisco territory, effectively ending the game.
Along with his trip to New Orleans, Harbaugh also leaves Atlanta with one of the most mesmerizing GIFs of the year.