PFWA Pool Reporter Kevin Seifert Interview with Referee Shawn Smith
Indianapolis Colts vs. Minnesota Vikings
Sunday, November 3, 2024
Question: Can you tell me what you saw to originally throw the flag (on the Indianapolis fumble return for a touchdown)?
Smith: “What I originally saw was a potential facemask on that high hit on the quarterback.”
Question: What went into deciding to pick it up?
Smith: “We determined that the initial force was at the shoulder and it was incidental contact to the head and neck area.”
Question: Does it matter if it is the forearm or the hands or the helmet that hits in an area? Would a forearm to the head still be considered a blow to the head?
Smith: “Well, I did not see that.”
Question: Was replay assist allowed to help you with that at all?
Smith: “No, it was not.”
