Green Bay Packers players publicly criticized officiating after a loss to the Detroit Lions, citing costly roughing penalties. Safety Xavier McKinney was the most outspoken, calling the refs' performance "bulls---" and stating it was "killing" the team's momentum. He said he would rather get fined than stay silent, claiming everyone sees what is happening.
Coach Matt La Fleur took a more cautious approach, arguing during the game but refusing to comment at length afterward. A key penalty occurred in the third quarter when Amon-Ra St. Brown continued running after appearing down, leading to a roughing the passer call on defensive tackle Devonte Wyatt after he knocked down umpire Terry Killens Jr. Wyatt maintained he did not hear a whistle and believed St. Brown did not give himself up. The Packers now have eight roughing the passer penalties in seven games.
La Fleur said the team must "play above it," while McKinney insisted the officials need to figure out what they need to do. The loss adds pressure on a unit frustrated by consistent flagging.
Source: ESPN NFL · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing