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NFL puts Saints at a disadvantage with referee decision for Paris game

The NFL is putting Bill Vinovich on a New Orleans Saints for first time since the No Call, and it's no coincidence they made this choice overseas…

Published: Saturday, 24 October 2026 at 10:38 PM
NFL puts Saints at a disadvantage with referee decision for Paris game
Key Things to Know
  • Darrion Gray argues the NFL disadvantaged the New Orleans Saints by assigning referee Bill Vinovich in Paris.
  • Vinovich had not officiated a Saints game since the controversial 'No Call' in the 2019 NFC Championship Game.
  • The writer claims the NFL deliberately scheduled Vinovich's return overseas to reduce potential fan backlash.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Darrion Gray argues that the NFL placed the New Orleans Saints at a disadvantage by assigning referee Bill Vinovich to their matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Paris. Vinovich previously led the officiating crew during the controversial 'No Call' in the 2019 NFC Championship Game and had not officiated a Saints contest in the seven years since.

Gray contends the league intentionally selected an international venue to minimize fan hostility compared to a contest held in New Orleans. The writer criticizes the NFL's decision, asserting that Vinovich should not officiate games involving the Saints due to lingering resentment over past postseason officiating.

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