In a surprising turn of events following the Detroit Lions’ recent game, former NFL referee and current Fox Sports rules analyst Mike Pereira weighed in on a controversial play involving quarterback Jared Goff. According to Pereira, the Washington Commanders should have been flagged for a penalty after a hit on Goff that was deemed to be late and potentially dangerous.
Pereira, known for his in-depth understanding of NFL officiating, expressed his belief that the hit on Goff was a clear violation of league rules. He pointed out that the quarterback was already in a vulnerable position when he was struck, which warranted a flag for unnecessary roughness. Goff, who had been maneuvering in the pocket, was hit after releasing the ball, which Pereira argued is often a situation where officials need to be especially vigilant for late hits on the quarterback.
The decision not to throw a flag on the play has sparked debate among fans and analysts alike, with many believing that the non-call may have impacted the flow of the game. Some suggested that the hit could have resulted in a critical penalty for the Commanders, potentially giving the Lions a fresh set of downs or allowing them to maintain momentum at a pivotal moment.
While Pereira acknowledged that officiating is subjective and open to interpretation, he stood by his assessment that a penalty should have been assessed in this instance. As the season continues, calls like these will remain a point of contention, but for Lions fans, the missed flag adds to the frustration of an already tough loss. As the team prepares for future matchups, the importance of protecting their quarterback and ensuring consistent officiating remains paramount.
