I don't think that Matthews tweet has anything to do with refs. It is simply about some players being protected with hits that have low likely hood of ending a career. Perry hit on Luck for example, and other hits that could, like a desperation chop block on Cushing.

The second comment I think would depend on who made it. I could see a defensive player more specifically getting this in their head. Shields probably more than anybody. but that also is a pretty common thought in DBs. Not out to get a team as in a position or positional group like DBs. Heck we have seen for years, every time one makes a play, the first thing they have to do is look to see if a flag was thrown.

They need to clean up the PI rule.

No question about that.

I DO believe there are untoward influences in the NFL.

FIRST: I believe that the rules favor offensive players in an attempt to increase scoring and "highlight reel" type plays.

SECOND: I do believe the referees have an agenda to try to keep games close, again to maximize television viewership.

There is money in gambling, and I do believe that some of that goes on, as far as game fixing or point shaving and whatnot. HOWEVER, imo the biggest untoward influence in the game comes from Goodell himself. He wants television ratings and the money that comes with it, at all costs, including that of the integrity of the game.

That said, my biggest secret fear is that I'll wake up one day and be unpopular.

I think they should let you challenge PI reguardless of tipped passes and what not. Because it is by far the most called penaltie.

IMO the worst change in the rules in my lifetime was the 5-yard chuck rule. Allow bump and run coverage (and pushing off until the ball is in the air, then hands off.

Interference still will be a judgment call, but would be a lot simpler for morons like the lawyers-in-stripes to call. "I saw the ball in the air. You initiated the contact I saw. Penalty. STFU."

Of course the modern receiver is such a wuss that pass completions would fall by 50 percent for a couple years.

But it'd be worth it.

No touching until the receiver has the ball in his hands! Do NOT touch the quarterback!

I would rather see the CB and WR bump and touch as much as they want, as long as they don't restrict the arms/hands in any fashion. Let the best man win.

As for the aiming at the knees, I think it should be avoided and helmet to helmet hits and forearms to the head as well.

"every joke has a little bit of truth to it."


I personally want the previous week's games a far distant memory, and not even joked about or tongue in cheek'd about or anything weeks later. You don't move on, the NFL will pass you by and you'll be 2 - 3 going against a 5 - 0 team on Sunday Night in front of the country.