NFL referees are often on the wrong end of criticism from fans, players and team leadership alike. It’s something of a thankless job in some respects.
That said, on occasion, the condemnation is warranted.
This week a particularly damning video emerged from Sunday’s showdown between the New York Jets and Green Bay Packers.
The clip in question largely speaks for itself:
“Wait, who’d you bet on?” pic.twitter.com/Oe2iC34l2T
— Teej. (@TJLang70) October 16, 2022
In the video, running back Breece Hall can quite clearly be seen taking an extra hit after he is out of bounds. The overseeing ref appears ready to throw a flag, only to hold off after conferring with a second referee.
It was an odd scene, any which way you want to look at it.
Reactions poured in immediately:
the refs really trying to help us and we still stink
— dom o (@domomustache) October 16, 2022
except the calls have been in favor of the packers all game
— Ethan (@Esquadtweets) October 16, 2022
If 90 was wearing a lions jersey he would have been ejected
— AJ Carpenter (@aj_carpenter7) October 16, 2022
That ref should be suspended- can’t get any clearer
— Joe D (@joedeangelus) October 16, 2022
Packers always get the calls
— MikeB (@Burnmike1) October 16, 2022
Yeah that was bullshit https://t.co/31L1IxkSfj
— Ryan G (@Rykea2) October 17, 2022
Obviously none of it ended up mattering in the end, but the frustration is certainly understandable.
This has been a mostly great year for the NFL. Cheerleaders are blowing up for their provocative photos. Moms are going viral for their memorable outfits. Everyone is having a good time.
The refereeing though — it’s rough.
At some point, something will need to be done about football officiating. Both at the professional and collegiate level.
Yikes Russell Wilson. https://t.co/vTv0Vo8OJI
— Game 7 (@game7__) October 18, 2022
There are only so many games that can be negatively influenced by these awful calls before it does irreparable damage to the integrity of the sport.
Will the powers that be attempt to get this mess under control before it’s too late?
Time will tell.
Related: Alex Morgan’s Provocative Shirt Causes A Stir (Photos)
A graduate from the University of Texas, Anthony Amador has been credentialed to cover the Houston Texans, Dallas Cowboys, San Antonio Spurs, Dallas Mavericks and high school games all over the Lone Star State. Currently, his primary beats are the NBA, MLB, NFL and UFC.
