Replacement refs: The story the NFL wants to keep quiet

[Daseal]

I will admit, my opinion has changed slightly after watching the last skins game. Mostly, I don't have an issue with replacement officials. If they're a little slower or make some mistakes here and there -- I understand. Especially as they become accustomed to the speed and difference in the NFL. I don't think their calls are any better/worse than normal refs. The normal refs made a lot of mistakes also, let's not act as if they were flawless. The new refs DO need to control the games. I'm sure that will be a point of emphasis after this week. Be more aware of extracurricular stuff and don't be afraid to throw the flag. Slow down any cheap hits, chippyness, etc.

Here's the thing, the amount of money regular refs want, to me, is ridiculous. This isn't their full time job and they spend ~4 hours a week working -- yet they want a pension? How many of us work 10x (or more) than that per week and aren't given a pension. We have to deal with a slight decrease in officiating skill until they get some practice -- but I understand the NFLs stance. I rarely side with the NFL anymore, but I do in this case. Last week was ridiculous and I expect to see improvement over the next few weeks, especially with keeping control of the game.