The controversial “no call” happened during the National Football Conference game between the Los Angeles Rams and New Orleans Saints.
The Saints drove down the field with a big play from quarterback Drew Brees to wide receiver Ted Ginn Jr. for a 43-yard throw that would have sealed their fate to move on. It was just under two minutes left in the game with the Saints set up on the Rams’ own 13-yard line. It was third-and-10 and Brees dropped back to throw to Tommy Lee Lewis, who was hit early by Nickell Robey, a Rams defensive back. It was pass interference. From this moment on it sparked an outrage from Saints fans and football fans everywhere. The NFL has extended its apologies for the blown call, but it does not solve the problem.
There are two reasons why I believe the NFL should overrule the game and have a rematch between the teams. According to the NFL rule book, “Rule 17 Section 2 Article 1” states that the commissioner has the sole authority to investigate and take corrective measures in a situation he deems extraordinarily unfair. Therefore, if it is in the rule book then why not use it? Secondly, the “no call” was so blatant that it should have been called not only for pass interference but for helmet-to-helmet contact. The offense was so blatant there should be a call to action, especially since it decided the outcome of the game.
On the other hand, I can see why people would be against it. First, if the NFL does it for this game, it could then send a ripple effect across the league and every team will want a rematch.
Another reason is that the refs are human and bad calls can happen. In the end, I believe the Rams, while being a good team, do not deserve their appearance in the Super Bowl. It was not earned but given to them on a blown call. Even though it will cost money and time to have the rematch between the teams, you cannot put a price on the possibility of ruining the integrity of the sport.
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