With Friday’s national ground stop that is still impacting travel across the country, the NFL has announced officiating changes for several Sunday games – including the Panthers vs Saints.
“Due to the ongoing nationwide impact to air travel this weekend, the NFL has adjusted its officiating assignments for Week 10 games, reassigning officials to games within driving distance of their hometowns,” the league statement said.
“The changes will necessitate that three back up referees – umpires Barry Anderson and Duane Heydt and side judge Don Willard – will work as referees in the following games:
Carolina-New Orleans – Duane Heydt
Jacksonville-Tennessee – Barry Anderson
Miami-Indianapolis and Pittsburgh-Cincinnati – Don Willard
“Each of the league’s 17 officiating crews have a backup referee identified, and that individual trains throughout the year to work at the referee position should the need arise.”
The league also announced that there will not be a replay official at the Panthers matchup against the Saints tomorrow, Tom Pelissero reported. That person’s duties will be handled by the replay center in New York.
Tar Heels Fall to Georgia After Letting Nine-Point Lead Slip Away