Joe Flacco rips replacement refs: They’re affecting the integrity of the game

The Ravens suffered a tough 24-23 loss against the Eagles on Sunday. Naturally, the replacement officials had something to do with it. Or least that’s how Joe Flacco saw it.

Flacco threw a 25-yard touchdown pass to Jacboy jones during the game, but the play was called back after an offensive pass interference call. Pro Football Talk pointed out that it was that play that seemed to irritate the Ravens signal-caller the most. After the game, Bart Hubbuch of the New York Post tweeted that Flacco told reporters the replacement refs are “affecting the integrity of the game.” He also said that he doesn’t want to “sound like a baby” but felt something had to be said.

While Flacco is no stranger to whining when things don’t go his way, he’s just one of a number of players and coaches who have used the replacement officiating crews as an excuse for losing — whether his complaint is warranted or not. Last week it was Aaron Rodgers, Mario Williams and Antonio Smith who sounded off.

How much longer can this last? Between the constant complaints and even conflicts of interest in certain situations, the NFL has to be feeling the heat while its regular officials sit at home and enjoy the show.

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