In a recent game between the Detroit Lions and the Kansas City Chiefs, a controversial trick play led to questions about officiating protocols. The play involved Lions quarterback Jared Goff, who was initially called for illegal motion after he shifted from quarterback to receiver to catch a touchdown pass from teammate David Montgomery.
Understanding the Officiating Controversy
The crux of the issue revolves around whether Goff properly established himself as a quarterback before moving. According to the rules, he needed to stop for a full second after going into motion. The officiating crew flagged the play after a lengthy discussion, raising concerns about the call’s legitimacy and the process followed by the officials.
Official Statements on the Ruling
- Lead official Craig Wrolstad explained that determining if Goff stopped correctly involved communication among officials.
- Wrolstad stated, “The down judge watches the player in motion… There was a little bit of confusion in our discussion regarding whether he had stopped initially.”
- He also clarified that there was no assistance from the officiating hub in New York on this call.
Dan Campbell’s Response
Lions coach Dan Campbell had a different perspective on the officiating process. While he acknowledged the importance of getting the call right, he suggested that officials may have received guidance from New York, which could violate league rules.
Clarification on Rules and Protocols
- The New York officiating hub can assist with certain game situations, including:
- Scoring plays
- Coaches’ challenges
- Failed fourth-down attempts
- Illegal motion penalties are not included in the reviewable situations, leading to further confusion.
Campbell confirmed that the team reached out to the league regarding the incident but refrained from disclosing the responses they received. He emphasized the necessity of clarity in officiating, given the discrepancies in accounts between officials and the potential implications for future games.
This incident highlights the challenges faced by officiating crews and the importance of transparent communication in maintaining the integrity of the sport. As the Lions continue their season, the outcome of this situation may have lasting effects on both teams involved and the league as a whole.
