Cleveland Browns' wide receiver Joshua Cribbs issued strong words to the NFL regarding the league's current use of replacement referees before Thursday night's showdown with the Baltimore Ravens.
Cribbs told Jeff Schudel of The News-Herald:
"Who polices the NFL and holds them accountable?" Josh Cribbs said. "It's just very unfortunate. A lot of times we have to scream and yell at the refs the rules. We have to help them with some calls. It's unfortunate for them. I feel sorry for them. Like Coach said, we do have to beat that team and the refs as well."
Cribbs was questioned about the final play of the Monday night game between the Green Bay Packers and Seattle Seahawks when an apparent interception in the end zone by M.D. Jennings was ruled a touchdown catch by wide receiver Golden Tate and the Seahawks came away with a last second victory.
Cribbs went on to tell Brian Dulik of The Chronicle Telegram:
"I disagree with the call last night. A lot of people do. That’s why it’s on ESPN and everywhere. It was a bad call."
The eighth-year pro went even further when asked about the NFL office’s statement, which supported the on-field call and its subsequent replay review.
"That’s because you’ve got to have the back of your officials, they work for the league," said Cribbs, whose eight career kickoff return touchdowns are an NFL record. "It’s just like I have the backs of my guys here that I fight with, so they must have their back. Everyone knows that.
Cribbs and the Cleveland Browns will take the field against the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday night in the first NFL game since Monday's controversial finish in Seattle.