Packers fans criticized officiating in their narrow loss to the Lions.
The Detroit Lions edged out the Green Bay Packers, 34-31, in a thrilling primetime matchup, but the game didn’t end without controversy.
The Packers had a critical touchdown nullified in the fourth quarter due to an offensive pass interference call on Christian Watson, who collided with a defender on a “pick play.” Later, the Lions ran a similar play without penalty, frustrating Packers fans.
“I brought it up with the officials because I thought our guy was picked too, but they said their player was running a route,” said Packers coach Matt LaFleur.
“Ultimately, if you’re running a shallow cross, you have to avoid the defender. That call was tough since we weren’t even targeting that side of the field. The play broke down, and Jordan Love improvised well, finding Josh Jacobs. But it’s on us to avoid those mistakes.”
As the Lions pulled ahead, Packers fans voiced their anger online, criticizing what they saw as biased officiating.
Peter Bukowski, host of Locked On Packers, even suggested the game seemed manipulated in favor of the Lions. “It felt like the Lions got the more favorable whistle, like an NBA game where the home team dominates the free-throw line. If that’s what the NFL wants, I get it, but it’s embarrassing. I don’t view the Packers any differently after this game.”
Both teams had seven penalties, with the Lions incurring 56 penalty yards and the Packers 59.
Fans continued to express their disappointment on Friday, lamenting the officiating and the season sweep by Detroit.
The Packers are now three games behind the Lions in the division but remain strong playoff contenders with an 8-4 record. A postseason rematch between these teams remains possible.
