NFL says Vince Young's high-five an accident

The unusual high-five that ended Monday's Titans-Texans game was apparently a case of miscommunication, not congratulation.

As the Titans wrapped up a 20-17 victory over the Texans, quarterback Vince Young appeared to exchange a high-five with referee Jerome Boger. If deemed deliberate, such an action by an official would have been "inappropriate," according to the NFL.

Turns out it was just an awkward moment. Here's what happened:

As Young took a knee on the final play, Boger jogged in with his right arm raised to signify the play was over.

As Young turned to face Boger, he saw the referee's right hand above his head and went for a high-five.

On Tuesday, the NFL released a statement saying Boger had no intent of exchanging a high-five:

"As Boger moved toward the line of scrimmage, he started to bring his arm down. However, before he lowered his arm, Young, moving towards the referee, raised his own arm and the two exchanged what appeared to be a quick high-five."

Titans Coach Jeff Fisher said that's how the incident had been described to him as well.

"Jerome isn't going to disrespect a player," Fisher said. "It's just one of those things that happens."

Boger does not have a reputation for playing favorites. In a 2007 game, he claimed that then-Raiders defensive tackle Warren Sapp used inappropriate language and bumped a member of the officiating crew, and Sapp was ejected.

Boger is in his sixth year as an NFL referee. The former Morehouse College player is a commercial insurance underwriter.