Detroit Lions coach Jim Caldwell, still upset about the pass-interference flag officials picked up in the fourth quarter of Sunday's playoff loss at Dallas, suggested video replay be used on critical calls like that one, reports the Columbus Dispatch.
"I think, without question, it was probably not officiated correctly in my estimation,” Caldwell said Monday. "Nevertheless, I do think in this day and age, with modern times where we have technology that can take out the human factor in certain key situations in big games, that we should use that technology to do so."
Detroit led 20-17 and had third-and-1 at the Cowboys' 46-yard line when linebacker Anthony Hitchens was called for pass interference against tight end Brandon Pettigrew. Officials reversed themselves and picked up the flag, prompting a Lions punt. Sam Martin shanked it, the Cowboys drove for a touchdown and held on to win 24-20.
"I'm angry about it, and trying to keep my composure here, but I'm probably angry for our team, and the fans," Caldwell said. "That's the thing that stirs your blood."
Dean Blandino, the NFL's vice president for officiating, said Hitchens should have been penalized for defensive holding. That would have given the Lions a first down, putting them near field-goal range.