Originally Posted by RaginCajun83 (Post 332157)

Only loosing teams complain about the refs

Originally Posted by SaintsBro (Post 332155)

Not only the calls, but it seemed like there were also screwy things happening with the game/play clock, especially earlier in the game. They kept mysteriously stopping the play clock when the Bears had the ball, they'd start it counting down, then pause it for just a few seconds, then turning it on again, giving the Bears a few more seconds here and there, to help them get a play in and to quiet down the crowd. Then when the Saints had the ball, the clock was starting the instant the whistle blew, and running continuously, like it's supposed to. I think the officiating crew did not have their act together, especially early in the game.

But I look at it like this: if it weren't for the benefit of dubious officiating, the Bears would not have gotten that touchdown in the first quarter. It was really their only impressive offensive drive of the day, and it was loaded with gimmes and extra clock stoppages, gift-wrapped first downs and all sorts of chances for "do overs." Other than that drive where they had the refs' help, you are looking at 30-6 or even worse for the Bears.