For the second time this season the New England Patriots lost a game marred by a Referees decision. A few weeks ago they were the victims of a penalty call on a 56 yard missed field goal attempt in overtime. It was the very first, and so far the only, implementation of a new rule. The penalty gave the Jets a second chance and a win. Last Monday night lightning stuck the Patriots again, only this time they were the victims of a last second penalty that was not called. Down by four points and with only three second remaining on the clock, Tom Brady’s pass into the end zone fell short and into the arms of Carolina Panthers safety Robert Lester. But before any celebration could begin a yellow flag came flying from the back of the end zone.
Replays showed that Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski was being mugged by a Panthers linebacker. A pass interference call would put the ball on the one yard line and give the Patriots one final play. However, after the referees confered, the pass was ruled uncatchable and the flag was picked up. No penalty, game over.
Opinions have differed as to whether the referees should have or should not have picked up the flag. Was it pass interference or was it not. One thing however is apparent. Another game ended on a controversial decision by the men in the striped shirts rather than by the players on the field.
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Was this decision a result of Situational Ethics? Asked about it, former NFL Referee Gerry Austin replied “Coaches coach by situation, players play by situation. And I believe officiating- to some extent- situations play a part.” If that’s the case then the NFL needs to at least be consistent in their calls. Make the close calls in the final minutes of games or don’t make the calls. Either way, referees cannot be seen as influencing the outcome of games. This off season the NFL Rules Committee must find a way to ensure all its crews are on the same page…
