Opinion: The call on the field should stand

Dear Editor,

In recent NFL games there have been at least two close plays in the end zone, one of which determined the game winner. In both cases the officials reviewed the play without a request from either team, and in both cases their decision reversed the call on the field. 

Also, in each case the officials’ decision went in favor of the same team. I am sure that in any game both managers closely watch every play. Whenever there is a marginal play by one team, the opposing manager will decide whether to challenge the call or not. If he does challenge a call, then it is the officials’ job to review the play and make a final decision. If the opposing manager does not challenge the call, then I think the call on the field should stand. 

I think it is an over reaching of authority for the officials to decide which plays they will review when the play is not challenged. 

Sincerely,

Karl Tiemann

Owego, N.Y.