Everyone was able to see it.
Regardless of the perspective displayed by the TV broadcast, two aspects became evident. Keisean Nixon had retrieved his fumble, and ex-Green Bay Packers linebacker Oren Burks had incurred an unnecessary roughness penalty for leading with his helmet.
The only individuals who had a differing opinion were the ones of greatest significance. The referees not only overlooked the penalty but also upheld the on-field ruling that the Eagles had regained possession of the football, even after reviewing the replay.
In what became a defensive struggle for a large part of the game, a turnover during the initial kickoff left the Packers quickly in a difficult position. It effectively gave Philadelphia easy points, and Green Bay never bounced back.
At the very least, they ought to have noticed Nixon had regained possession of the ball. Even more importantly, they ought to have noticed the unnecessary roughness penalty and awarded the Packers an extra 15 yards.
The NFL has acknowledged their error, but it’s already too late.
NFL fines Oren Burks for hit on Keisean Nixon during Packers-Eagles playoff matchup.
Oh, so now the NFL is going to get involved?
NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reports that Burks has been fined $8,333 by the league for “unnecessary roughness (use of helmet).”
No need to fret, Packers supporters. Certainly, the officials made a terrible decision that contributed greatly to Green Bay’s playoff defeat, but at least the league has penalized Burks for it. If a font for sarcasm were available, it would be utilized right now.
It occurs. The officials will overlook plays, and the Packers failed to perform adequately on offense or special teams to secure the victory. You must never let a poor officiating call lead to your loss. The defeat raised significant questions for Green Bay regarding both offense and defense.
Is addressing wide receiver a priority this offseason? How will the team tackle the pass rush? How about the cornerback position?
General manager Brian Gutekunst discussed the Packers’ need for a “sense of urgency” as they progress. It’s a significant offseason.
Nevertheless, it still stings to witness the NFL essentially acknowledge their mistake on such an important play. Certainly! Here’s a paraphrased version:
Indeed, it was the opening play of the match, yet it gave the Eagles an additional opportunity in Packers territory, resulting in a swift touchdown.
Green Bay didn’t perform adequately to secure the victory, but who can say what could have occurred if it had executed a scoring drive to gain the lead? Rather, a poor decision gave Philadelphia an early lead, and the remainder is well-known.
