All articles tagged with #officiating controversy
SEC referee Ken Williamson was suspended for the rest of the 2025 season following controversial calls in Georgia's win over Auburn, with the league reviewing multiple complaints and deeming most credible, marking the end of Williamson's officiating career amid contentious decisions during the game.
WNBA star Napheesa Collier criticized league commissioner Cathy Engelbert for poor leadership, especially regarding officiating and player salaries, amid ongoing league disputes and a potential work stoppage, accusing the league of neglect and undervaluing players.
Pacers coach Rick Carlisle defends veteran NBA referee Scott Foster amid criticism from fans and media during the NBA Finals, emphasizing Foster's long-standing reputation and contributions, despite ongoing scrutiny and controversy surrounding his officiating style.
Utah's athletic director, Mark Harlan, criticized the officiating after BYU's 22-21 victory over Utah, claiming the game was "stolen" due to a controversial holding call that negated a crucial Utah sack. The call allowed BYU to continue their drive, leading to a game-winning field goal by Will Ferrin. The win keeps BYU undefeated and in contention for the College Football Playoff, while Utah's coach Kyle Whittingham expressed frustration over missed opportunities.
Iowa's win over West Virginia in the NCAA Women’s Tournament was marred by controversy over the officiating, with fans and NBA star Damian Lillard criticizing the lopsided foul calls in favor of Iowa. Despite the disparity in foul calls, Caitlin Clark led Iowa to a 64-54 victory, breaking the single-season NCAA Division I scoring record. The Hawkeyes will now face No. 5 Colorado in the Sweet 16.
Detroit Lions left tackle Taylor Decker was involved in another blown call during the wild-card win against the Los Angeles Rams, but this time it didn't affect the outcome as the Lions secured a 24-23 victory. Despite the officiating controversy, Decker and the Lions are now set to host a home playoff game for the first time in 30 years. Decker, the longest-tenured player in Detroit, expressed gratitude towards the fans and emphasized the significance of the home-field advantage.
CBS NFL rules analyst Gene Steratore defends the controversial offensive offside ruling against Chiefs wide receiver Kadarius Toney, stating that the call was a good one based on the obstructed view of the football. Steratore acknowledges the unfortunate timing of the call, which nullified a well-executed play by Travis Kelce and Toney. He also addresses complaints from star pass rushers like T.J. Watt about ignored holding calls, emphasizing the importance of getting those plays right but dismissing the notion of a conspiracy against any specific player.
The NBA has rescinded the technical foul assessed to Boston Celtics' Jaylen Brown by official Scott Foster during Game 7 against the Philadelphia 76ers. Brown was initially given the tech for staring down the 76ers' bench, but it was later revealed that he did so because 76ers' Georges Niang grabbed his leg. The move was an attempt to keep Brown from quickly making it to the other end of the floor. The rescinded tech resulted in a tech for both Brown and Niang.