What's Happening?
The NFL has announced that Clete Blakeman's officiating crew will oversee the upcoming playoff game between the Los Angeles Rams and the Carolina Panthers. This matchup is part of the first round of the NFC playoffs. The Rams, who were once the top seed in the NFC during the season, find themselves facing the Panthers, the NFC South champions, in Charlotte. Blakeman, a seasoned referee, has officiated 16 postseason games, including Super Bowl 50. Notably, this will be the first Panthers game he officiates this season. The Rams have a 6-5 record with Blakeman as their official during the Sean McVay era. His crew is known for averaging 12.81 penalties and 100.13 penalty yards per game this season.
Why It's Important?
The assignment of Clete Blakeman's crew to this
playoff game is significant due to his extensive experience in high-stakes matches, including Super Bowls and conference championships. The Rams' familiarity with Blakeman's officiating style could influence their game strategy, as they have a slightly positive record under his supervision. The Panthers, on the other hand, will need to adapt quickly to his officiating style, as they have not played under his crew this season. The outcome of this game could impact the playoff trajectory for both teams, with the Rams looking to capitalize on their experience and the Panthers aiming to leverage their home-field advantage.
What's Next?
As the game approaches, both teams will likely focus on minimizing penalties, given Blakeman's crew's tendency to call a high number of infractions. The Rams may review past games officiated by Blakeman to refine their approach, while the Panthers will need to prepare for a potentially strict officiating environment. The outcome of this game will determine which team advances further in the playoffs, making strategic preparation crucial for both sides.
