Upon Further Review

OK, I’ll admit it. Jon Gruden brings up a good point about challenging interference calls – or rather non calls.

His reasoning is a bit off in that he is talking about “important” playoff caliber games but the point is worthy of consideration non the less.

Currently only plays involving the ball (including whether or not a player is down) and possession can be challenged – not player contact.  However, if a replay shows clear interference (especially when the play is in the end zone) and it was not called, should it be eligible for review.  Yes, we get the benefit of instant reply, Tivo, and of games viewed on network TV, but ever body  at the game usually get to see a reply on the stadium big screen.  So if a receiver is clearly interfered with and no call is made, should the play be eligible for challenge and review?

Then, of course, the one of the follow up questions could be . . . “why limit it to just interference calls?”

What about hits on the QB and non roughing the passer calls, or blatant holding, or what if you disagree with the penalty and want it reversed?  All of this runs the risk of snowballing out of control and ruining the game.

Is the bigger question to this “how do we even out officiating calls throughout the game and season?”

Is the answer better training?

A better and expanded use of the technology at hand?

Is the answer more of an officiating one?  As in more officials or different placement of officials on the field?

What do you think?

 

The Replacements

The NFL is prepared to use replacement referees “for as long as necessary” during the 2012 season.

 

With talks between both sides stalled, it looks like everyone is in store for an even more unpredictable, possibly boring, and frustrating NFL season. Seriously, How many of you saw the debacle of officiating which resulted in fans starring at this scene for what seemed an eternity?

Not only is the game in serious danger of loosing integrity with officials who are not familiar with interpreting ALL of the NFL rules – but fans, players and coaches have to suffer through this “learning” experience as well.

 

But all is not lost, Roger Goodell and the NFL are using this opportunity to make history.  History that is long overdue.  Female NFL Officials.  Shannon Eastin will be the first female to officiate an NFL game.  Congratulations to Shannon, and the NFL.  This is something that is long overdue.

 

However, you should have initiated this with proper training and education so that the game would not be seriously interrupted or be at risk of losing integrity.

 

Seriously, if you are getting replacement officials, with little to no knowledge of the rule book and are going to use female officials as well – you might as well go all out and get replacement uniforms too!

 

Wouldn’t it be more entertaining and exciting to see some replacement officials in this?

And to be completely fair to all, and equally offensive to all the political correct police out there, you could look for some male model “professional dancers” too!

 

Now that would be entertainment !

😉

 

 

Dinner Guests