Lions not Thankful that Real Refs are Back … Badly Blown Call by Refs Nearly Cost Detroit Lions Turkey Day Game Against Houston Texans

Thanksgiving Day football – 2012.

Not everyone is thankful this Thanksgiving that the full time referees are back making calls in the NFL. During today’s annual Turkey Day game in Detroit, the refs blew a call in the Texans - Lions game that resulted in an 81 yard TD run by Texans running back Justin Forsett. Not only was it a blown call, it was a badly blown call that changed the momentum of the game. The running backs hand, elbow and knee all touched the ground and yet not one ref blew their whistle to stop the play. Instead they all blew the call.  Making matters worse, if possible, Lions coach Jim Schwartz threw the challenge flag early, which meant the play would not be reviewed.

Video Hat Tip: SB Nation

Normally this play would’ve been reviewed, as all scoring plays are. But Lions coach Jim Schwartz threw the challenge flag early, which meant the play would not be reviewed. The rule not allowing a challenge in that instance doesn’t make a lot of sense, but the head coach needs to know the rules, so Schwartz can be blamed for that one.

So you can gain an appreciation for how bad the call was, check it out live.

This for this ridiculous rule to be changed immediately after the season.

UPDATE :I The game has gone to overtime and both teams have missed potential game winning FG’s. Game still tied.

UPDATE II: Correction, blown call costs Lions game as Texans win in OT 34-31 in a game that should have been won by Lions in regulation. Thanks Refs!