Steve Smith isn’t concerned with repercussions as the Panthers’ wide receiver lashed out at what he perceived to be bad officiating.
Steve Smith lashes out at officials following Panthers’ loss
Carolina’s outspoken wide receiver could hear from the league office following his comments on Monday.
Christian Petersen
James Dator has been covering a wide range of sports for SB Nation for over a decade, with a special focus on the NFL.
The Carolina Panthers lost in embarrassing fashion to the Arizona Cardinals in a game where Smith was held to four catches for 60 yards. On Monday he told reporters that referees were a prime reason why he was ineffective, talking to Joe Person of the Charlotte Observer.
“I got a (pass interference) penalty, which is very interesting. I got leg-humped and hugged a few times. Being a pretty good flag football player, I think I got my flag pulled on my jersey a few times,” Smith said. “I would say pretty much, I take that one on the chin and just say it was me. I’ve got to play better.”
The 13-year veteran didn’t take all the blame, griping about umpire Dan Ferrell who denied his team an important first down catch that was eventually overturned on review.
“When I dove for the first down (and) he was standing right there, he didn’t even acknowledge -- he received a check that day and I hope he feels good. He was terrible. He was garbage.”
It’s likely Smith will hear from the league office about his remarks on Sunday’s officiating, but the receiver doesn’t care.
“To be honest, I make enough money where if Roger wants to fine me he can. But I really think that referee probably was the sorriest referee that I have ever met,” Smith said.
Carolina fell to 1-3 on the season with Sunday’s 22-6 loss. It has been reported the Panthers have started looking at potential head coaching candidates through background checks. General manager Dave Gettleman denies the report, but it shouldn’t be surprising given Ron Rivera’s lackluster performance over the last thee years.
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