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Aaron Rodgers has never been one to shy away from opinions. On The Pat McAfee Show, one of the topics of discussion was the performance of the referees. This week saw refereeing decisions under the microscope after controversial decisions during games, particularly the Raiders-Patriots and Giants-Commanders games.
Pat McAfee spoke to Aaron Rodgers about the NFL not having full-time referees and asked the quarterback why he believed that to be the case. Given that the league has grown exponentially over the last few years, it seems surprising to Rodgers that the NFL hasn't looked into permanent referees.
He also highlighted that with newer revenue streams like sports gambling finding wider acceptance, it shouldn't be that hard for the league.
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Aaron Rodgers, however, was certain of the reason and replied:
"I think it comes down to... the one thing that runs the league: the almighty dollar."
Aaron Rodgers has direct experience of being at the wrong end of an officiating decision
Aaron Rodgers was direct in his opinion despite Pat McAfee contending that the league has enough money.
He took the example of the 2012 NFL referee lockout. During that season, due to a labor dispute, the league used replacement referees instead of their regular officials. That was something Rodgers saw up close as the Green Bay Packers were involved in the infamous 'Fail Mary' game against the Seattle Seahawks.
In that game, they missed an offensive pass interference by Golden Tate on a Russell Wilson pass that led to the game-winning touchdown on the last play of the game. There was controversy surrounding the touchdown as two referees on the play had signaled differently. It was neither a good advertisement for the referees nor the game.
At the time, it took that game to finally force the NFL to close the bargaining agreement with the referees association. The season highlighted the importance of spending money on officials as a worthy investment.
Rodgers also pointed out that they then had the chance to recognize the importance of full-time qualified officials and make the change. Looking at the wider evidence, it is hard to disagree with him.
If you use the above quote, please credit The Pat McAfee Show and H/T Sportskeeda
