The NFL dodged a major bullet in Wednesday's regular-season opener between the New York Giants and Dallas Cowboys, as replacement officials avoided the mishaps and confusion that became commonplace during the preseason.
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"Our officials did a more than adequate job last night," Goodell said, via the San Francisco Chronicle. "I think we've proven we can train officials, get them up to NFL standards, and we've done that in a three-month period. These officials will get even better as time goes by. The game is not going to stop."
As we wrote Wednesday night, the replacement refs had one notable gaffe in the opener, a missed holding call on Cowboys nickel back Orlando Scandrick that likely cost the Giants four points.
"The officials are being trained. They understand the rules," Goodell said. "Unfortunately, officials make mistakes. We have situations every season, every week, where an official may not drop a flag for a violation and we have to fine. Officiating is an imperfect science."
On balance, it was a competent effort. We're sure this is all Goodell and the league office can expect at this point.
Follow Dan Hanzus on Twitter @danhanzus.