Category Archives: Profiles

Officials can find fountain of youth on field

Posted on September 30, 2012 by Mark Schultz

[Update: Because Tom Barnes was scheduled to officiate today's game, we carried this story despite the lack of a second source to confirm he was still active. A decision was made by the editor, based on other press commentary Barnes … Continue reading →

It’s a big game, but referees remember “it’s just 60 minutes of NFL football”

Posted on February 5, 2012 by Ben Austro

Michael Pointer of The Indianapolis Star talked to former referees Gerry Austin, Jerry Markbriet, and Bill Carollo about their Super Bowl experiences. Collectively, they represent nine of the Super Bowls, including seven which they were crew chief. Markbriet has the … Continue reading →

Freak on-field incident reveals cancer diagnosis for Tony Corrente

Posted on January 9, 2012 by Ben Austro

Sometimes a story comes along that completely alters one’s perspective. Referee Tony Corrente has such a story. We mentioned Saturday that Corrente, officiating the Lions-Saints game, something we knew and did not disclose for several weeks, in deference to his … Continue reading →

Blakeman crew cool under chaos

Posted on December 11, 2011 by Ben Austro

Week 13: Lions at Saints Clete Blakeman’s crew officiated a game that could have easily become uncontrollable at any moment. It didn’t help that they were shorthanded. Umpire Garth DeFelice left the game midway through the first quarter with a … Continue reading →

Honors, remembrances for former refs

Posted on January 30, 2011 by Ben Austro

The NFL is honoring two of its former officials today: the late back judge Bob Lawing and retired back judge Bill Schmitz. Lawing, who passed away in May 2010, was honored this season with a commemorative patch worn on official’s uniforms. … Continue reading →