Cowboys linebacker and Packers defensive end Micah Parsons has been very vocal about his feelings on recent NFL officiating on X. Among other things, he takes aim at the dangerous, brain-rattling “tush push” play and the randomness in how penalties are enforced. After the Packers’ week five loss to the Cincinnati Bengals, Parsons took to his Twitter to express his irritation. He noted the trouble offensive players get to avoid being called for holding.
Against Cincinnati Parsons suffered a self-inflicted injury when one of his opponents poked him in the eye. He had to replace his face mask with a new one because the injury caused a popped blood vessel. Each of these defined incidents took place on a play where no penalty flag was thrown anywhere in the stadium. Even after going through visible pain, Parsons was able to rally and finish with five pressures on Sunday’s game. This was the first game all season that he didn’t have a QB hit.
In addition to these hot takes, Parsons articulated his concerns about standards in officiating, arguing that certain calls are “egregious” and shouldn’t be made. There’s a double standard on the whole idea of player safety being first and foremost. He asked for a strong explanation if rules would seem to put breaking an offensive player or receiver first.
“If you’re going to say it’s about protecting players, then protect all players. Don’t just protect one side of the ball.” – Micah Parsons
He made clear his frustrations, and he did it clearly. Because after five years you don’t get those clear calls, players start to get used to that. Parsons is concerned that officials will favor rewarding scoring plays and thus lose fairness.
“Like, five years of not getting a call, you eventually stop worrying about it.” – Micah Parsons
In a postgame interview from the sidelines with coach LaFleur, both men called out the blatant mistakes in officiating. LaFleur agreed with Parsons, saying that he too has seen some calls that just look unfair. The Packers are set to face the Philadelphia Eagles on November 10 at Lambeau Field, an encounter that may intensify scrutiny on officiating and player conduct.
While speaking, Parsons was asked about the new rule that many teams have been implementing — the tush push play. He hates it, but he understands how dangerous it can be with his favorite defensive tactics. He said it’s maybe the second best thing teams are doing offensively right now.
“That’s the best thing we’re doing on offense right now.” – Micah Parsons
He cautioned that this new strategy might come back to bite him one day. His comments demonstrate that he is well aware of the possible consequences for his controversial speech.
Parsons’s remarks have captured the imagination of those around the league and fans alike. Knowing that his statements could have consequences, including potential fines, he recently faced a $50,000 penalty for prior comments. Parsons remains undeterred.
“They know you can tell how they call the games. They don’t call offsides for offense, but they’ll call it on defense. They won’t call offensive pass interference, but they’ll call defensive pass interference.” – Micah Parsons
On the left, the Packers prepare for their upcoming matchup against the Eagles. At the same time, Parsons’s remarks are bound to continue placing officiating at the focal point of conversations. His perspective reflects a broader frustration shared by many players regarding consistency in how rules are applied across the league.
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