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The NFL are clamping down on their officials after what was a really poor showing at the weekend for the league.
During the Seattle Seahawks’ win over the Los Angeles Chargers, there were a whopping 30 penalties accepted by the officials. In the Jacksonville Jaguars vs Cincinnati Bengals game, there were 24 penalties.
It was a weekend of football that was largely marred by the officials and some of their overly strict penalty calls. However, one official in the Arizona Cardinals’ loss to the New York Giants has come under serious scrutiny.
Tight end Trey McBride was victim of ‘unprofessional conduct’ from one official, which has now seen Jeff Seeman suspended and official Adrian Hill suspended for his involvement in Dolphins-Vikings. On the back of the news, fans have been sharing their reactions.
NFL fans react to officials being suspended after Week Four issues
The standard of refereeing has come under scrutiny in the early stages of this season, with some games being tarnished by the officials. However, a lot of fans are concerned about these officials being suspended over the use of bad language.
‘It’s crazy that a bit of bad language gets refs suspended but when refs completely change outcomes of games with horrible calls the NFL is radio silence,’ said one NFL fan.
‘Suspend the rest for inconsistent and favourable flags,’ added another.
There is some irony that other officials have not been suspended for their questionable calls during games. The Seahawks’ win over the Chargers became almost unwatchable at times due to the number of soft calls being given by the referees.
The overriding response, however, was the delight that the NFL were finally holding officials accountable for their actions: ‘Ref accountability? I must be dreaming’.
‘You love to see it,’ replied another NFL fan on X.
Hill was suspended on the back of his strong reaction towards Minnesota Vikings linebacker Eric Wilson following an accidental collision.
‘Actually crazy to see referees being held accountable for their actions. Rare NFL W,’ replied another.
‘Refs finally getting suspended? Didn’t think I’d see the day. Now do the flag-happy crews killing 4th quarters every week,’ added one NFL fan.
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