If we get the replacement refs (and it looks like we will), I suspect the totals may be a bit higher than normal. I heard several players say that replacement refs in exhibition games were not calling anything but blatantly obvious penalties. If the most common penalty (offensive holding) isn't getting called, look for some fireworks on the scoreboard.
Replacement refs & totals
- Thread starter Valuist
- Start date
I think using Replacement Refs will favor the Home Teams. Less experienced Refs may be influenced and/or intimidated by Home crowds.
good point. it may tilt a game or two over, but i don't believe it will be that widespread. most holding calls are pretty obvious, and just a few are debatable from what i have seen.
look at the other more significant side of the coin: defensive holding/interference on passes. that is called quite often, and too many of them are really toss-ups. these are real rally killers and prevent many td's, as usually the defender is beat. also, many receivers are masters at "creating" interference calls. i will suggest the new officials will have their hands so full, they will not pick these up, or rather, not give the receiver the benefit of the doubt. my case for unders.
the home town intimidation makes a lot of sense.
in my mind, it is a washout, with a lean to the under.
pep
look at the other more significant side of the coin: defensive holding/interference on passes. that is called quite often, and too many of them are really toss-ups. these are real rally killers and prevent many td's, as usually the defender is beat. also, many receivers are masters at "creating" interference calls. i will suggest the new officials will have their hands so full, they will not pick these up, or rather, not give the receiver the benefit of the doubt. my case for unders.
the home town intimidation makes a lot of sense.
in my mind, it is a washout, with a lean to the under.
pep
The only game with the replacement refs I worry about the OAK/KC game. The Raiders seem to commit penalties as a way to intimidate the opponent. I wouldn't be surprised Gruden draws a line in the sand to see what the refs do. If the CBS mike on the field catches a ref yelling like Eric Cartman:RESPECT MY AU-THOR-TIE!!!we'll know why.
