Post by exhockeyref on Jan 17, 2021 18:17:16 GMT -5
Somewhat nostalgic to hear Gene Steratore comment on a runner going backwards out of bounds. "He did this on his own volition to stop the clock, so this isn't giving himself up in the field of play."
For anyone who remembers the disastrous 2015 Patriots-Bills game with the "inadvertent whistle" and the horrible end of game winding-the-clock--and Steratore having to apologize/explain these calls--it was a good moment.
Still remember the FootballZebras headline: "Steratore crew defeated in Monday night game." Yeesh.
This wasn't a wonderfully officiated game, but it was solid throughout. The helmet hit/touchback fumble through the end zone will probably be the legacy play of this one.
Chiefs tight end Ricky Seals-Jones was penalized for an illegal crackback block.
A crackback block is in place because it prohibits "unexpected" severe blocking from a typically eligible receiver who is going against the grain of the play. In this case, you have a low block which is one in the collection of illegal blocks under the crackback rule. Seals-Jones is travelling toward the spot where the snap occurred to deliver the block, which is also one of the directional requirements of the rule. This was a correct call.
Martin: 3.9 - Excellent job crewing his first playoff game at referee. Handled timing, measurements and judgement calls well. Ellison: 3.9 - Lots of hustle and kept things moving Phillips: 4.0 - Amazing game. I hope we see him in three weeks. Steinkirchner: 3.95 - it is always a comfort to have such an experienced official on your crew Meslow: 4.0 - OPI, fumble/touchback and an amazing catch call in real time. Baynes: 3.9 - Good calls and hustle Steed: 3.7 - Was it illegal helmet contact or not?
Crew: 3.91 - I think we'll see a few of these guys in three weeks. An intense game and each officials showed they were up to the challenge.