NFL replacement refs: Is it time for a fan boycott? [Poll]

The NFL has been using replacement refs for three weeks now. The experiment really hasn’t worked from the beginning and now it’s reached the level of a full-fledged debacle with the “Monday Night Football” game between the Green Bay Packers and Seattle Seahawks being decided by a blown call on the final play.

Did I say debacle? Actually, “disgrace” is probably a better word to describe what is going on in the NFL right now.

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On Monday night, Golden Tate pushed off a defender and tried to wrestle away a clear interception by Green Bay’s M.D. Jennings, all of it right in front of an official — and was awarded a game-winning touchdown for his efforts.

And it wasn’t just the blown call. There was at least 10 minutes of utter chaos that followed, during which no one seemed to know what was going on or what to do. Finally, 11 players from each team were somehow brought back on the field for a meaningless — but required — extra-point attempt to bring the game to a merciful end.

That was the most blatant example of just how much these replacement referees are in over their heads — and believe me, there’s been many, many more. It’s not their fault, but these guys clearly aren’t qualified to officiate at this level and they simply have lost control of the games.

Photos: Was it a touchdown or an interception?

I’ve heard many people say that the NFL, which has locked out the regular officials since June due to a contract dispute, has all the leverage because of the mind-blowing popularity of the sport.

But what if the game suddenly wasn’t so popular? What if we fans stopped watching and attending games, buying merchandise, tuning in to the league’s network, playing fantasy football, etc.? Then Commissioner Roger Goodell and company would have to take notice, right?

I know it would be tough. Real tough. But for the sake of the game we love so much, maybe we should boycott the NFL until the real refs are brought back.

What do you say? Are you with me? Or would that be just too much to handle? Vote in the poll, then leave a comment explaining your position.

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