NFL backs replacement referee’s call, as controversy further gains strength – NFL News
Seattle Seahawks luckily won their Week 3 game over Green Bay Packers, thanks to a touchdown during the final few minutes of the game. The touchdown not only brought victory to the Seahawks, but also added fuel to the debate regarding underperformance of
replacement referees. However, the league office has backed the referee’s call.
Since the National Football League (NFL) and the referees’ association are in a deadlock, the league is utilising services of the officials who have performed duties at college level.
Just in the first few weeks of the season, the replacement officials have been severely criticised, while players of many teams along with their coaches have been seen screaming over many of the referees’ calls.
The game between Packers and Seahawks witnessed another controversial decision from the replacement referee.
Trailing by five points, Seahawks got a touchdown in the final minute when their quarterback Russell Wilson sent a 24-yard pass to Golden Tate, who pushed one defender out of his way in the end zone and had tough time dealing with the second defender who
also caught the ball along with the receiver.
The field officials signalled it a touchdown, and a review later also supported the on-field ruling.
Tate said after the game:
“We both had possession of it. I don't even know the rule but I guess the tie goes to the receiver."
The result frustrated the Packers, who would have otherwise won the game.
Packers coach Mike McCarthy said after the game:
"Don't ask me a question about the officials. I've never seen anything like that in all my years in football."
He added:
“I know it's been a wild weekend in the NFL and I guess we're part of it now."
According to ESPN, Packers guard T. J. Lang said during the Valenti & Foster Show:
"Whatever it takes, it's just a total embarrassment to everybody watching the game, the players in the game, it's not fun to be part of something like that. ... If it keeps going on, it's going to get ugly.”
Meanwhile, the league office has maintained that it is trying hard to resolve the issue with the referees’ union, which, according to the league office, is focusing only the economic benefits.
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