Week two in Denver saw an undeniable fumble propel a late game comeback by a team that was handily beaten. Now fast forward to week five in which a face mask penalty preceded a fumble, change of possession, and ultimately the outcome of the game.
Players play the game and by all accounts are responsible for the play on the field. This season, however, it seems as though one officiating crew has influenced the game of football almost beyond reproach.
I have been a supporter of Ed Hochuli for a long time, and have always thought that he represented the best that the National Football League could provide for an official.
His analysis, insight, and thorough explanations of rules always gave me full confidence that the game was being officiated fairly with no bias. With that said, it has been depressing, to say the least, to watch what may be the downfall of one of football's great presences.
While watching last night's game, I felt almost sick to my stomach to see that the official explaining the fumble, return, and the loss of possession out of bounds was in fact the same individual that mishandled a crucial call in week two.
After watching the face mask replay, I wondered to myself, "Who could miss that call?"
It was depressing to see who represented the officiating crew. I know that the referee himself was not responsible for making that call, but I had to wonder once again who could miss that call?
From that point on I second guessed every call made by any one of those officials. I realize it's not my place, nor am I qualified to officiate a game at that level. I, as a fan, would enjoy watching the players play it out on the field, and not wonder if there was a non-call or a game changing call made by those paid to observe the game and administer the rules.
I know that this particular crew has been involved in controversy more than once this year. From what I've read about those situations, Hochuli has been accountable and forthright in his explanations.
I commend him for that to be sure, and still respect the way he goes about the game. I do wonder, though, do the officials working under his supervision feel that respect as well? Are they capable of performing to the high standard that has become expected of them, portrayed for years by the official they work for?
I am just wondering if anyone else was feeling this way about this group of officials, or is it just me?
3 comments Last one added 8 months ago — Leave a Comment
Todd Nicholson 9 months ago
I cannot believe the sensationalist sports media is picking on Mr. Hochuli for last night's non-call for facemask. Yes, it may have affected the game. Still, with six guys out there looking at various parts of the field of play, you're pinning the blame on Hochuli just because he made a mistake earlier this year? Oh, Puhleez! If he was in plain view of the face-mask, then I'd say you've got a case where, if I were the NFL, I'd perhaps let Hochuli take games that don't have the spotlight that MNF does. So, if that's the case, I eat my words. But until anybody has proof of that, then people seriously need to get off his back.
I ask that those irrationally criticizing take a look at their lives. Do they feel that, after having made a big mistake on their job (or with their family) a couple weeks ago, they should be solely blamed for making a mistake that several co-workers (or family members) failed to call out?
Blame the ref closest to the play. If it was Hochuli, then fine. If not, then get some sense (and a little compassion) into you, and let it go.
Peace to Ed and to all.
T-O-DoubleDizzle
presence99@aol.com
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greg kittle 9 months ago
I concurr with you Todd. I think Mr. Hochuli is a class act and respect his work on the field. It seems as though the crew that is working under him this year has caused him to be somewhat maligned. I don't think he deserves the public stoning he's recieved. At least he's been accountable & willing to say "I made a mistake". That in & of itself deserves respect. So with that said it sucks to see him in the national spotlight for the wrong reasons.
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Buddy Smith 8 months ago
The fumble call was in week one after a rule change...I think we should all give him a break on that one.
I've watched a ton of games called by Hochuli, and almost all were done well.
I think that it's his name recognition that is drawing the fire now.
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