Vikings Chris Kluwe Calls for an End to Replacement Refs

Minnesota Vikings Chris Kluwe is criticizing the officiating crew that called 20 penalties in an ugly 12-10 preseason loss to the San Diego Chargers on Friday night, the Associated Press reports.

Kluwe tweeted that “the NFL really needs to kiss and make up with the refs. These replacements are horrible. Frankly, it’s kind of embarrassing.”

The NFL is currently in a labor dispute with its officials and has been using replacement crews to fill in. Two of the calls from referee Wayne Elliott’s crew were overturned on review.

Kluwe also tweeted that “I’m sure they’re trying hard, but they’re just not good. So many blown calls tonight in both directions.”

Since the replacement refs have been in place, players, fans and media have been quick to point out the numerous bad calls and poor officiating.