This Sunday’s NFC North clash between the Detroit Lions and Green Bay Packers will see Clete Blakeman as the head referee—a name that evokes strong feelings among Lions fans.

Blakeman’s officiating crew was part of a highly controversial game in 2019 when the Lions faced the Packers on Monday Night Football.

That match featured several penalties against Detroit that significantly affected the outcome, leading to fan outrage and widespread criticism.

The Notorious 2019 Monday Night Game

In October 2019, the Lions were leading the Packers 22-13 in the fourth quarter when they forced a crucial fourth-and-long situation, setting the stage for a potential punt.

However, a contentious illegal hands-to-the-face penalty was called on Trey Flowers, which granted the Packers a first down and renewed momentum.

This decision resulted in a touchdown pass from Aaron Rodgers to Allen Lazard, narrowing the Lions’ lead to 22-20.

The drama continued in the final minutes, as another dubious call went against Detroit.

Flowers was flagged again for illegal hands-to-the-face, allowing the Packers to move into field goal range. Kicker Mason Crosby subsequently converted the game-winning field goal, giving Green Bay a 23-22 victory.

The NFL later acknowledged that both penalties against Flowers were incorrect.

High Stakes and Ongoing Frustration

As Blakeman’s crew returns for this crucial Lions-Packers matchup, fans in Detroit are reminded of the painful outcome from 2019, raising concerns about the potential influence of officiating on the game. With both teams vying for dominance in the NFC North, the atmosphere is charged, and Blakeman’s position as head referee amplifies the stakes.

This time, Lions fans are hopeful for a fair contest free from the controversial calls that marred their previous high-pressure meeting with Green Bay.