Brad Allen’s crew finds itself in, following two key missed non-calls of pass interference that been the epicenter of recent debates.
After a pair of key missed non-calls of pass interference, referee Brad Allen's crew is under increased scrutiny. And someone apparently wants to be sure everyone knows it. https://t.co/yn73wxRq9Q
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) December 10, 2023
the first controversial non-call happened in Week 12, during the game between the Atlanta Falcons and New Orleans Saints.
In the second quarter of the showdown, Atlanta linebacker Kaden Elliss made contact with New Orleans running back Alvin Kamara before the ball even reached him.
Despite the obvious pass interference, no flag was thrown, which resulted In the Saints losing their game.
The missed call was definitely a game changer, and its effects were evident. The drive culminated in a field goal, and the Saints ended up on the losing side, suffering a 24-15 defeat.
Week 13 brought another critical non-call during the Kansas City Chiefs and Green Bay Packers showdown.
This time, Green Bay’s cornerback Carrington Valentine wiped out Chiefs’ receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling near the end of the game with the Packers leading by a slim eight points.
Renowned ESPN.com reporter Adam Schefter made the salient point that every decision made – or not made – by officials falls under the league’s microscope.
Their performances throughout the season can significantly influence their future assignments or even the continuation of their officialdom.
This scenario brings another intriguing narrative to the forefront. How and why did this issue become the focus of national attention?
Was it due merely to Schefter’s keen observation, or was there an inside scoop?
The million-dollar question arises who is propelling these controversies?
Could it be one of the impacted teams attempting to place Allen’s crew under the spotlight, or does it trace back to the league office looking to divert attention from other issues?
Interestingly, this debate resurfaces NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell’s old remarks wherein he expressed concerns about free gambling on sports events.
He emoted that usual game incidents like bad snaps, penalties, turnovers, dropped passes, and play calling could lead to harmful speculations around point-shaving or game-fixing.
