Referees play a pivotal role in the outcome of NFL games, and their decisions can sometimes have a significant impact on the results. Over the years, there have been instances where referee calls have sparked controversy, changed the course of games, and left a lasting impact on the teams involved. In this article, we'll delve into the top 10 worst referee calls in NFL history, detailing each call's specific game, the teams involved, and the subsequent repercussions. Through a comprehensive analysis, we aim to shed light on the controversies and their lasting effects on the sport.
1. Fail Mary - Seahawks vs. Packers (September 24, 2012)
One of the most infamous referee calls in NFL history occurred during a game between the Seattle Seahawks and the Green Bay Packers. With replacement officials working due to a labor dispute, a Hail Mary pass led to a contentious decision. Seahawks receiver Golden Tate attempted to catch the ball, which was also in the hands of Packers safety M.D. Jennings. The officials ruled it a Seattle touchdown, sparking mass confusion and outrage. The call ultimately led to the reinstatement of regular referees in the NFL.
Impact: The controversial call directly impacted the game's outcome, resulting in a 14-12 victory for the Seahawks. The call ignited widespread debate and scrutiny, prompting the NFL to take swift action to address the issue.
2. The Play that Changed Pass Interference - Saints vs. Rams (January 20, 2019)
In the NFC Championship Game, the New Orleans Saints faced the Los Angeles Rams in a highly anticipated matchup. With the game tied and 1:49 remaining, a blatant pass interference against Rams cornerback Nickell Robey-Coleman went unnoticed by the officials. The non-call had a significant impact on the game's result, allowing the Rams to secure a victory in overtime.
Impact: The missed pass interference call altered the course of the game, leading to the Rams' victory and sparking widespread outrage. The incident prompted the NFL to implement a one-year rule change, allowing pass interference to be reviewed by replay for the subsequent season.
3. Hopkins Goes Out of Bounds - Texans vs. Raiders (November 21, 2016)
During a Monday Night Football game between the Houston Texans and the Oakland Raiders, a controversial call by the officials drew attention. A pivotal play involving Texans' DeAndre Hopkins running for a touchdown was incorrectly ruled out of bounds by the officials, despite replays suggesting otherwise. The call impacted the game's momentum and outcome, ultimately influencing the Raiders' 27-20 victory.
Impact: The incorrect out-of-bounds call affected the Texans' drive and scoring potential, ultimately contributing to their loss. The call raised questions about the accuracy and reliability of officiating in crucial game moments.
4. Colts vs. 49ers Controversy (October 18, 1998)
During a game between the Indianapolis Colts and the San Francisco 49ers, a series of controversial officiating decisions sparked widespread criticism. The officiating errors, including negated interceptions and disputed touchdown rulings, significantly impacted the game's momentum and outcome.
Impact: The officiating errors directly affected the Colts' lead and the 49ers' comeback, leading to a 34-31 victory for the 49ers. The game's controversial nature prompted the NFL to issue a statement acknowledging the officials' errors.
5. Eagles vs. Cowboys Division Decider (December 9, 2018)
A crucial divisional game between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Dallas Cowboys was marred by a controversial call on the opening kickoff. A disputed ruling regarding a fumble recovery by the Eagles fueled controversy and impacted the game's momentum, ultimately influencing the outcome in favor of the Cowboys.
Impact: The contentious call had a direct impact on the game's momentum and outcome, contributing to the Cowboys' victory and sparking criticism from players and fans.
6. Patriots vs. Panthers Controversy (November 18, 2013)
In a highly anticipated matchup between the New England Patriots and the Carolina Panthers, a contentious non-call on a potential game-winning touchdown pass sparked controversy. The controversial decision directly impacted the game's result and sparked widespread debate regarding the officials' judgment.
Impact: The disputed non-call affected the game's outcome, ultimately contributing to the Panthers' victory and prompting intense scrutiny of the officiating.
7. Seahawks vs. Steelers Super Bowl XL Controversy (February 5, 2006)
In Super Bowl XL, a pivotal officiating decision during a touchdown play by the Seattle Seahawks sparked controversy and impacted the game's momentum. The disputed call influenced the Super Bowl's outcome and left a lasting impact on the Seahawks and their fans.
Impact: The contentious call affected the Seahawks' scoring opportunity and was a decisive factor in the game's outcome, contributing to the Pittsburgh Steelers' victory.
8. Broncos vs. Chargers Fumble Controversy (November 27, 2011)
During a game between the Denver Broncos and the San Diego Chargers, a disputed fumble ruling sparked controversy and impacted the game's momentum. The controversial call directly influenced the game's outcome and left a lasting impression on the teams involved.
Impact: The disputed fumble ruling affected the game's momentum and outcome, contributing to the Chargers' victory and prompting intense scrutiny of the officials' decision-making.
9. Packers vs. Seahawks Incorrect Interception Ruling (December 11, 2016)
A game between the Green Bay Packers and the Seattle Seahawks was marked by a disputed interception ruling that sparked controversy and impacted the game's momentum. The contentious call directly influenced the game's outcome and prompted widespread debate regarding the officials' judgment.
Impact: The disputed interception ruling affected the game's momentum and outcome, contributing to the Seahawks' victory and prompting intense scrutiny of the officiating.
10. Ravens vs. Patriots Field Goal Controversy (January 22, 2012)
During a crucial playoff game between the Baltimore Ravens and the New England Patriots, a disputed field goal ruling sparked controversy and impacted the game's momentum. The controversial call directly influenced the game's outcome and left a lasting impact on the teams involved.
Impact: The contentious field goal ruling affected the game's momentum and outcome, contributing to the Patriots' victory and prompting intense scrutiny of the officials' decision-making.
These 10 worst referee calls in NFL history have left a lasting impact on the game, sparking controversy, and prompting the league to address officiating issues. The influence of such controversial calls highlights the importance of accuracy and fairness in officiating and serves as a reminder of the lasting effects of such decisions on the sport of football
