The XFL was expected to revolutionize the game of American football, but the resemblances with the NFL are narrating a different story. The XFL has recently started its 2023 season and is facing similar issues to the NFL’s 2022 season, which caused uproars among fans. The NFL’s ratings saw a three percent decrease in regular season ratings from the previous season, leading many to question why NFL is losing popularity amongst people.
One reason could be officiating, which has become a growing issue. Although Roger Goodell publicly stated that there is no issue with officiating and that it is the best ever, many fans disagree. And now, XFL seems to be following NFL’s lead regarding this matter.
Guardians’ Dormady caught on camera criticizing refs in XFL game
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During a situation in a football game between the Orlando Guardians and the Seattle Sea Dragons. The Guardians’ quarterback, Quinten Dormady, was caught on camera expressing his frustration with the referees by saying “These refs are bad” as he exited the field, and the incident was captured by fans.
The Guardians ultimately lost the game with a score of 26-19, bringing their season record to 0-6, meaning they have lost all six games they have played so far.
"these refs are bad" pic.twitter.com/Z7s3R6HyBu
— CJ Fogler account may or may not be notable (@cjzero) March 25, 2023
A fan commented that they enjoyed hearing the players express their opinions on the referees, with Dormady’s comment being a prime example.
Watching my first full XFL game this season and I just love hearing the players… “these refs are so bad!!” says Orlando QB Quinten Dormady
— Kalyn Kahler (@kalynkahler) March 25, 2023
Another fan’s comment expressed frustration with the referees and suggests that they negatively impacted the game for the Guardians.
Refs have fucked this game for the guardians man #XFL
— Coco Conseco ↓ (@TheCoryBeaver) March 25, 2023
A fan made a joke about the referees struggling to remember the rules of the XFL.
Refs trying to remember the XFL rules lol
— The X Fan Show (@XFanShow) March 25, 2023
Further, a fan’s comment simply expresses dissatisfaction with the referees’ performance.
Bro these XFL refs are bad
— Dave McDavie Dude (@RoboCobbBurner) March 25, 2023
The general sentiment among the fans appears to be in line with Dormady’s disappointment with the referees and their overall performance during the game.
Orlando’s failed opportunity leads to Seattle’s victory
Seattle started the scoring with a field goal by Dominik Eberle and then extended their lead on a 49-yard punt return by Kelvin McKnight.
The first half was largely dominated by defense, and although Seattle had a promising drive just before halftime, they turned the ball over on an interception in the end zone by Najeem Hosein.
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Orlando had a chance to extend their lead after the turnover but failed to do so, and Seattle took advantage of a touchback rule to start a drive from their 35-yard line with 21 seconds left in the half.
Although the Guardians managed to make it into Seattle territory in the second half, they were unable to convert on fourth down, and the Sea Dragons won the game 3-0.
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Overall, the game was a defensive battle, with both teams struggling to score points. Seattle’s victory extended their winning streak to four games, while Orlando continued to search for their first win of the season.
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