2018

Following the controversial non-call during the 2018 NFC Championship Game between the New Orleans Saints and the Los Angeles Rams, the NFL acknowledged the officiating error. Saints head coach Sean Payton reported that after the game, NFL Senior Vice President of Officiating Al Riveron admitted to him in a phone call that the officials “blew the call.” This sentiment was later echoed by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, who acknowledged the missed call in a press conference. Additionally, the league fined Rams cornerback Nickell Robey-Coleman $26,739 for the hit, further indicating that a penalty should have been called during the game

2024

Recent NFL playoff games involving the Kansas City Chiefs have sparked controversy over officiating decisions perceived as favoring the team. In the AFC Divisional Round against the Houston Texans, a critical roughing the passer penalty was called on Texans’ edge rusher Will Anderson Jr. after what appeared to be a clean hit on Chiefs’ quarterback Patrick Mahomes. This penalty extended a Chiefs’ drive that might have otherwise ended, leading to criticism from players and fans. Texans’ head coach DeMeco Ryans commented, “We knew going into this game that it was us versus everybody… And I mean everybody.”

 

The NFL playoffs kick off this weekend with six exciting Wild Card matchups. Here’s a quick primer on each game:

NFL Schedule

Atlantic Time

Los Angeles ChargersHouston Texans

 

Saturday

5:30 PM

Pittsburgh SteelersBaltimore Ravens

 

Saturday

9:00 PM

Denver BroncosBuffalo Bills

 

Sunday

2:00 PM

Green Bay PackersPhiladelphia Eagles

 

Sunday

5:30 PM

Washington CommandersTampa Bay Buccaneers

 

Sunday

9:00 PM

Saturday, January 11

• Los Angeles Chargers at Houston Texans: The Chargers, led by quarterback Justin Herbert, boast the league’s top scoring defense, allowing just 17.7 points per game. Houston’s rookie QB C.J. Stroud has faced challenges this season, with his passer rating dropping from 100.8 to 87.0.
  Star Tribune
• Pittsburgh Steelers at Baltimore Ravens: This AFC North rivalry is renewed in the playoffs. The teams split their regular-season meetings, with Pittsburgh winning 18-16 in Week 11 and Baltimore taking a 34-17 victory in Week 16. The Ravens have been dominant recently, winning their last four games by an average of 23 points.
  Star Tribune

Sunday, January 12

• Denver Broncos at Buffalo Bills: Buffalo’s Josh Allen leads a potent offense that averages 30.9 points per game. The Bills are undefeated at home this season. Denver’s defense, which led the league with 63 sacks, will need to pressure Allen to disrupt his rhythm.
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• Green Bay Packers at Philadelphia Eagles: The Eagles, with a 14-3 record, are favored by 4.5 points. Running back Saquon Barkley has been a key contributor, and quarterback Jalen Hurts is expected to return from concussion protocol. The Packers are dealing with injuries, including the loss of wide receiver Christian Watson.
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• Washington Commanders at Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Rookie QB Jayden Daniels has led the Commanders to a 12-5 record, while Tampa Bay’s Baker Mayfield has thrown for over 4,500 yards and 41 touchdowns. The Buccaneers’ rookie running back Bucky Irving has also been impressive, leading all rookies in rushing yards and touchdowns.
  Star Tribune

Monday, January 13

• Minnesota Vikings at Los Angeles Rams: The Rams upset the Vikings 30-20 in Week 8. This playoff game has been relocated to State Farm Stadium due to wildfires in Los Angeles. The Rams rested their starters in the final week, indicating confidence in their depth and strategy.
  Star Tribune

These matchups set the stage for an exciting start to the NFL playoffs, with teams vying for a chance to advance toward Super Bowl LIX.