Posted by Irregaahhdless
What’s the best thing to do after your supposedly tough defense gets pushed around (to the tune of a 35/25 advantage in time of possession for your opponent) in a six-point loss? Blame the refs, of course!
So, what was Ed Reed complaining about? Let’s see…
1. Two roughing-the-passer calls on Baltimore defenders for hitting Tom Brady
The first — a glancing blow to Brady’s head — was pretty ticky-tack. Of course, Reed fails to mention that the Ravens were the beneficiaries of the same type of call later in the first half. However, Baltimore couldn’t take advantage of the gift and Joe Flacco threw a pick. So, you know, if the 15-yard penalty leads to points, you should gripe about it. If nothing comes of it, just don’t bring it up.
As for the second penalty on the Ravens, Terrell Suggs hit Brady at knee level. Sorry, but you’re going to get flagged for that every time, Ed. You may not like the rule, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a penalty.
2. Bad spots by the officials
Reed cited two plays specifically: the Patriots’ fake field goal in the fourth quarter when it appeared that Chris Baker was short of the first down marker but received credit for getting the ball past the chains as well as Willis McGahee’s fourth-and-1 run in the fourth quarter.
Now, was the spot bad on the Baker play? Yes. Of course, the Pats were flagged for illegal motion on the play. The Ravens accepted the penalty and the Pats kicked a field goal. So the bad spot, while it did happen, didn’t impact a damn thing.
As for the McGahee play, Reed himself noted: “When Willis had his fourth-down try, it probably wouldn’t have been a first [down], but it probably should have been a little closer.” Oh, OK then. It’s even more clear how this would have impacted the game. The Patriots still would have taken over on downs, but would have been pinned 18 inches farther back! That totally would have made the difference!
Seriously, Ed. It’s time to stop talking. You’re only embarrassing yourself.
SWAGLESS 